Guide on RC-rated Game/App Sales Restrictions through the IARC System

This document provides guidance on what to do when a game or app that has received an RC (Refused Classification) rating through the IARC system cannot be sold in countries or regions outside of South Korea. It explains the necessary actions and procedures to obtain a sellable rating in compliance with the age rating policies of each country.

IARC System and RC Rating

The IARC (International Age Rating Coalition) system is a global system where age rating authorities from various countries collaborate to assign consistent age ratings to digital content. An RC (Refused Classification) rating means that the content does not meet the policy standards of a specific country or region and, therefore, cannot be sold.

Actions to Take if RC Rating is Received

1. Modification of the Game/App

If a game or app receives an RC rating, its content must be modified to comply with the age rating policies of the relevant country or region. Required modifications may include the following:

  • Adjustment or removal of sensitive content such as violence, sexual content, and drug-related content

  • Change of content in accordance with legal standards of each country or region

  • Localization of user interface and language settings

2. Compliance with Age Rating Policies by Country

Refused Classification Policies by Country

Each country's age rating policies differ, so it is necessary to ensure that the content of games or apps complies with each country's policies. The regions that may refuse classification are as follows:

  • South Korea: GRAC (Game Rating And Administration Committee) rating system

  • Germany: USK (Unterhaltungssoftware Selbstkontrolle) rating system

  • Taiwan: TCA (Taiwan Entertainment Software Rating Information) rating system

  1. Removing Countries with RC Rating

If it is not possible to modify your product due to your release schedule, you can proceed with the release in the remaining countries after removing the countries where you have received an RC rating.

South Korea (Game Rating and Administration Committee)

When receiving a game rating in South Korea through the IARC system, the rating is assigned according to the criteria of the Game Rating and Administration Committee. The committee does not follow the IARC rating classifications for games rated 19 in South Korea, so the developer must apply rating through a separate procedure.

Application Procedure:

  1. Prepare the necessary documents.

  2. Fill out and submit the rating application form.

  3. Wait for the committee's evaluation.

  4. Receive the evaluation results.

Documents to Submit:

  • IARC CERT ID

  • Game Rating and Administration Committee rating certification (if already rated 19+).

  • Other necessary documents in accordance with the committee's guidelines.

Contact Information

For inquiries regarding rating, please contact the following email.

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