In short
- Tapas ends service on March 31, 2027 at 23:59 PT, per Kakao's announcement of September 22, 2026.
- Ink sales stopped on October 1, 2026. Remaining Ink still works until the end and cannot be refunded.
- Unlocked episodes become inaccessible and cannot move to other Kakao services.
- That includes the uncensored versions sold in the web-only Mature section.
- Creators may keep publishing until the closing date.
What happened
Kakao Entertainment said on September 22, 2026 that it would shut down Tapas, the webcomic and web novel platform it owns, as Anime News Network reported on October 1. Tapas posted an end-of-service FAQ on September 30 and updated it on October 1. The last day is March 31, 2027, with service ending at 23:59 Pacific time.
The FAQ sets out the steps. From October 1, 2026 Ink, the platform's currency, can no longer be acquired. Ink already in an account can still unlock episodes until the end. After that, unlocked episodes become inaccessible, and they cannot be transferred to other Kakao services. In the FAQ's words, all Ink transactions are final and non-refundable
.
What it means for readers
Anything bought on Tapas was a right to read it there, and that right ends with the service. The practical advice is short: spend leftover Ink before March 31, 2027, on series you will actually finish reading by then, and do not expect money back for the balance.
Readers of adult webtoons lose more than most. Tapas kept explicit versions of some premium series in a Mature section on the website, sold separately from the all-ages versions in the apps, and purchases did not transfer between the two. Both sets of purchases go when the service closes. Wait Until Free, the app's timed free episodes, ends with it.
For other places to read the genres Tapas carried (romance, BL, GL, a Mature catalog), see adult webtoon platforms and free adult webtoons. Why coin purchases vanish like this is explained under webtoon coins.
What it means for creators
Creators can keep publishing until March 31, 2027. Tapas paid community creators through ad revenue and reader Support, and both end with the platform. Creators moving their work should look at where to publish adult comics and platforms for NSFW webtoon creators.
Earlier stories are on the news page.
FAQ
When is Tapas shutting down?
On March 31, 2027 at 23:59 PT.
Can I get a refund for my Tapas Ink?
No. Tapas says all Ink transactions are final and non-refundable. Leftover Ink can still unlock episodes until the closing date.
Will my unlocked episodes move to another app?
No. Tapas says unlocked episodes become inaccessible and cannot be moved to other Kakao services.
Can I still buy Ink?
No. Ink could no longer be acquired from October 1, 2026.