SK Telecom (SKT) has recently started to sunset its 3G service by halting subscriber additions, commencing the process of closing the network after 23-years of operation.
The operator is lining up a raft of offers and promotions to encourage subscribers to switch to 4G and 5G alternatives, with phone replacement and tariff discounts among the incentives.
SKT is yet to set the final shut down date, but explained it wanted to begin preparing customers for an end it stated is necessary due to falling subscriber numbers and traffic, and ageing equipment and devices.
Closure requires government permission, which SKT believes is a “future” matter.
In a relevant customer FAQ, SKT stated the final timing of a shutdown would be determined by the progress made in transitioning customers.
Any MVNOs using the network would need to inform their users directly and SKT stated it intends to consult with any large-scale or special-purpose customers on the 3G set-up.
Yoon Jae-woong, head of the Product and Brand division, said SKT would “carefully” examine individual customer’s circumstances when assessing what help they require to move off the 3G service.
SKT highlighted it is far from the only operator to close or begin terminating 3G services, flagging moves from big-names in Asia-Pacific, Europe and North America.
Korea JoongAng Daily reports SKT had just shy of 135,000 3G customers in June and hopes to complete the closure by end-2027.
Source: Mobile World Live
Image Credit: SKT
Source: Tahawul Tech