KaKao

- Continuously featured in 'DJSI World Index,' 'DJSI Asia Pacific Index,' and 'DJSI Korea Index' since 2021.

- Sole domestic enterprise in the Interactive Media, Services & Home Entertainment sector included in DJSI World, also recognized as an 'Outstanding Company.'

- Achieves top industry scores in transparency, materiality assessment, climate strategy, and safety protocols.

 

[December 11, 2023] Kakao, a leader in global sustainable business practices, maintains its prestigious position in the industry.

 

Kakao, led by CEO Hong Eun-Taek, proudly announced its inclusion in the '2023 Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) World' for the third year in a row, as acknowledged by S&P Global. Since 2021, Kakao has consistently featured in the 'DJSI World Index,' along with the 'DJSI Asia Pacific Index' and the 'DJSI Korea Index.' It stands out as a leading enterprise within the 'Interactive Media, Services & Home Entertainment (IMS)' sector among prominent online service companies.

 

Kakao excelled in various evaluation metrics, notably in▲transparent reporting,  ▲materiality assessment, ▲climate change strategy, and ▲safety and health, earning it the highest scores in its industry. The company's dedication to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives is evident through its improved information disclosure in ESG reports and policies, its commitment to the 'RE100' global initiative, the establishment of environmental principles, and enhanced management of human rights and supply chains.

 

DJSI is a reputable sustainability assessment and investment index globally recognized for its comprehensive evaluation of a company's economic and ESG performance. This year's DJSI World Index included only 320 companies, or 12.6%, out of the 2,544 global contenders based on market capitalization. Among them, 22 Korean companies were listed. The 'Interactive Media, Services & Home Entertainment (IMS)' industry group, encompassing major online service companies, evaluated 92 companies, with only 6, including Kakao, being included in the World Index. Kakao is the sole Korean company in this group.

 

Meanwhile, Kakao secured an integrated 'A' grade for the third year running in the '2023 ESG Evaluation and Rating' announced by the Korea ESG Standards Institute in November, excelling in the environmental and social categories with an 'A+' and achieving an 'A' in governance. The Kakao Group companies, such as Kakao Games and KakaoPay, likewise earned integrated 'A' grades, marking their successful performance.

 

Yook Sim-Na, Head of Kakao's ESG Business Division, commented, "Our relentless pursuit of diverse ESG strategies and their consistent implementation has led to this achievement. As an IT company, we are committed to contributing to a sustainable future and upholding our societal responsibilities." (End)