Kakao is one of the most recognisable names in Asia’s fourth-largest economy. Since its founding in 2010, it has evolved into a conglomerate with over 120 affiliates. KakaoTalk, its messaging app, is used by the majority of South Koreans. As a super-app, its services range from music streaming to online banking and taxi-hailing. Yet in recent years, the company has come under fire. The arrest of its founder shows how Korea’s tech titans are becoming indistinguishable from the chaebol, or family-owned conglomerates.