SK Telecom (SKT) has begun the process to terminate its 3G service. The company announced that it will stop new subscriptions for 3G service starting today. As a result, new sign-ups, number transfers, and device changes (including SIM card changes) for 3G devices and LTE devices that do not support HD Voice will be halted.
SKT explained, "The number of 3G subscribers and traffic has been steadily declining, and the 3G devices and equipment are aging. Additionally, the communication environment is shifting towards next-generation networks, prompting the decision to discontinue the service."
Previously, on July 23, SKT and KT met with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Science and ICT Lee Jong-ho to propose the termination of 3G services. SKT plans to apply for approval from the Ministry of Science and ICT for the 3G service shutdown and will gradually implement the service termination. The company will support existing 3G customers in transitioning to LTE and 5G.
Initially, the service transition support program will target existing 3G customers and LTE customers who do not support HD Voice. This program is available to customers using the specified devices as of midnight today. Customers transitioning to LTE or 5G will retain their existing bundled discounts and long-term customer benefits.
Eligible customers can choose from three options: a free replacement of one of three designated LTE or 5G devices and a monthly discount of up to 12,000 won for 24 months; a device purchase subsidy of up to 380,000 won and a monthly discount of up to 12,000 won for 24 months; or a monthly fee discount of up to 70% (up to 700,000 won) for 24 months. Regardless of the program chosen, customers will also receive four additional refill coupons.
Customers aged 65 and older who transition from 3G to LTE or 5G will be supported in enrolling in the existing 'New Silver Plan' (9,900 won per month). If they do not change to another plan after enrollment, they can continue using this plan.
Customers who choose not to participate in the transition support program and decide to cancel their service or switch to another carrier will receive a cancellation support payment of 40,000 won. Any penalties incurred during the transition, cancellation, or switch to another carrier will also be waived.
SKT will inform 3G subscribers about the service termination plan and support programs through text messages (MMS), the T World website and app, and postal and email billing notices. Additional guidance will be provided to customers, particularly seniors, who may face challenges with digital services.
Yoon Jae-woong, head of SKT's Product and Brand Division, stated, "We will carefully consider the circumstances of each customer who has used 3G for a long time and support their transition. We will continue to enhance network quality and service competitiveness so that all customers can enjoy more stable and convenient communication services."
Meanwhile, global telecom companies are also discontinuing 3G services due to declining subscriber numbers and the need for more efficient frequency utilization. Companies such as Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T in the U.S., as well as NTT Docomo, SoftBank, KDDI in Japan, and O2 in the UK, have either initiated or completed the shutdown of their 3G services.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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