The .kr domain zone is the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for South Korea. It is primarily intended for entities associated with South Korea, including businesses, organizations, and individuals. The .kr domain serves as a digital identity for South Korean entities, facilitating online presence and communication.
The .kr domain was introduced in 1987, shortly after the establishment of the Internet in South Korea. The initiative to create this domain was spearheaded by the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), which was instrumental in developing the country's internet infrastructure. The .kr domain has since evolved to accommodate the growing number of internet users and organizations in South Korea.
The .kr domain is currently managed by the Korea Internet & Security Agency (KISA), which operates under the Ministry of Science and ICT. KISA is responsible for overseeing the registration process, maintaining the domain's infrastructure, and ensuring compliance with international standards. Additionally, KISA collaborates with various national and international bodies to regulate and promote internet security and stability.
Domain registration in the .kr zone is open to both individuals and organizations. There are no specific restrictions based on citizenship or location; however, registrants must provide valid identification and contact information. The registration process typically involves the following steps:
The .kr domain supports Internationalized Domain Names (IDN), allowing for the use of non-Latin characters, which is particularly beneficial for Korean language users. The technical specifications for .kr domains include:
Like many other domain zones, .kr has faced challenges related to abuse, including spam and phishing attacks. To combat these issues, KISA has implemented several security measures:
The .kr domain has seen a steady increase in the number of registered domains over the years. As of October 2023, there are approximately 1.5 million registered .kr domains, reflecting the growing digital landscape in South Korea.
The cost of registering a .kr domain typically ranges from $10 to $30 per year, depending on the registrar and any additional services offered. Premium domains, which are often shorter or more desirable, may be priced significantly higher, sometimes reaching thousands of dollars.
The .kr domain zone plays a crucial role in South Korea's digital ecosystem, providing a platform for local businesses and individuals to establish their online presence. With a robust administrative framework, ongoing security measures, and a growing number of registrations, the .kr domain continues to be a vital asset for the South Korean internet community.