What if everyone had basic mobile internet? South Korea is making it happen
Monthly limits will soon become far less restrictive for South Koreans using mobile internet, as the government has partnered with the main providers to introduce basic mobile data access after caps.
South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT announced a partnership with three major telecom companies that will benefit 7.17 million users who don’t currently have unlimited data plans.
Under the plan, reported by Kyodo News, users will continue to have access to mobile data at reduced speeds of around 400 kbps after their allowance expires, helping them save up to 322.1 billion KRW ($217 million) annually. This will allow residents to use basic functions and applications, such as messaging apps.
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The plan is being implemented in cooperation with South Korea’s main carriers, SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus.
Deputy Prime Minister Bae Kyung-hoon highlighted the importance of guaranteeing basic communication rights for all citizens. The agreement includes expanded voice and text services for seniors, and the launch of integrated mobile plans, including 5G plans priced around 20,000 KRW ($13.5)
Additional measures focus on improving Wi-Fi services on subways (from LTE to 5G) and enhancing high-speed rail quality. The government’s press release also mentions expanding investment in next-generation and artificial intelligence (AI) networks.
“After last year’s hacking incidents, the responsibility and role of telecom companies have become even clearer. Now is the time not just to promise change, but to deliver transformation that citizens can truly feel,” said Kyung-hoon, according to the press release.
The comments follow a series of recent cybersecurity incidents involving major telecom providers in South Korea. These include the SK Telecom breach, which compromised approximately 26.96 million user records and about 9.32 GB to 9.82 GB of data; a femtocell security breach at KT; and a cyberattack targeting LG Uplus, which affected tens of thousands of customers.
Kyung-hoon added, “It is important to contribute to people’s livelihood, including guaranteeing basic communication rights for all citizens, and to lead the future of an AI-based society through active investment.”
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