South Korea opens applications for new 5G operator
This aims to enhance competition in the country’s mobile sector.
The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) of South Korea is now accepting applications for 5G-suitable spectrum in the 28GHz band in a move to boost competition in the country’s mobile market.
The Korean government announced that new operators will be prioritized to use one of the two frequency bands in the 28 GHz band — barring major telco companies to bid for the spectrum.
According to the MSIT, the new operator to be awarded the spectrum will be the only service provider in the 28 GHz band during an initial three-year period to secure its market position. Financial benefits, including tax benefits and loans, will also be provided to the new entrant, the ministry added.
The ministry said it will accept applications for the spectrum until 19 December 2023.
The 28 GHz spectrum has a narrower coverage area compared to the 3.5 GHz band, but it has a higher speed and lower latency.