Public Mascots Reach Out Through Free KakaoTalk Emoticons

Between May and August 2025, public agencies and South Korean local governments gave away free KakaoTalk emoticons featuring their mascots, one after another. Many handed them out on a first-come, first-served basis or distributed them to friends of their KakaoTalk channels. In the same period, an emoticon contest on proactive public servants was also held.

National Fire Agency marks expo with Ilgu emoticons

In May 2025, the National Fire Agency gave a set of 16 emoticons of its mascot Ilgu to the first 25,000 people to mark the International Fire and Safety Expo. The agency has regularly used its mascots at events such as the expo. Its mascots are Ilgu along with Yeongi, Ungi, Kkumi and Rangi.

Gangwon State Office of Education debuts the Potato Star Friends

In June, the Gangwon State Office of Education unveiled its new characters, the "Potato Star Friends," and distributed a free set of 16 KakaoTalk emoticons to the first 25,000 people. The characters cost about 20 million won ($14,000) to develop. The main character, Yeouri, appears on souvenirs, promotional materials and emoticons.

Taebaek and Yongin offer seasonal and birthday emoticons

In late June, Taebaek City Hall, Gangwon State, distributed summer-themed KakaoTalk emoticons of its official mascot Taeboomi. Taebaek also released its 2024 and 2025 emoticons through Korea Open Government License (KOGL). In August, Yongin Special City, Gyeonggi Province, marked Joayong's birthday by giving a free set of 16 animated 3D emoticons to its 270,000 KakaoTalk channel friends.

Yanggu's Baekkobi: 25,000 downloads via channel

In August, Yanggu County, Gangwon State, distributed 25,000 Baekkobi emoticons through its KakaoTalk channel.

Ministry of Personnel Management holds Gwidami emoticon contest

In August, the Ministry of Personnel Management announced 10 winning entries in an emoticon contest on proactive public servants that used Gwidami, its mascot for proactive administration. Gwidami, a rabbit with upright ears, won the grand prize in a 2023 contest for a proactive administration symbol.

Most of the emoticons from the five organizations came in sets of 16, and distribution ranged from 25,000 downloads to 270,000 people. After events and promotional materials, public mascots also found a place in mobile phone chat windows.