KT to Halt New 3G Sign-Ups, Following SK Telecom in 3G Exit Process

[Financial News] Following SK Telecom, KT is also suspending new subscriptions to third-generation (3G) mobile services, putting domestic 3G services on a path to retirement. Starting on the 2nd, KT will stop accepting new subscriptions and device-change requests for 3G handsets and LTE handsets that do not support HD Voice. It will support existing users with free device replacements and bill discounts of up to 336,000 won, among other benefits.
KT said it would stop accepting new subscriptions, number transfers and device-change requests for those handsets starting on the 2nd, and support existing customers switching to LTE or 5G.
KT launched commercial 3G service in 2003 and introduced its 3G brand, "SHOW," in 2007. As LTE and 5G adoption grew, the number of 3G users continued to decline and equipment grew outdated, prompting KT to decide to stop accepting new subscriptions. According to the Ministry of Science and ICT, as of the end of August, there were 252,591 3G lines in South Korea, accounting for approximately 0.44% of the country's 57,639,275 total mobile phone lines.
The support applies to subscribers using a 3G handset or an LTE handset that does not support HD Voice as of midnight that day. Subscribers can choose one of three compensation options: a free device replacement, device-change points or a bill discount.

Those who choose a free device replacement can receive one of three designated LTE or 5G handsets at no cost and get a monthly bill discount of 12,000 won for 24 months. Subscribers who purchase a handset of their choice themselves will receive 150,000 won in device-change points for a mobile phone, along with a monthly discount of 12,000 won for 24 months. For smart devices, 75,000 won in device-change points and a monthly discount of 6,000 won will apply.
Those who choose a bill discount without replacing their device can receive a total discount of 336,000 won on a mobile phone line, at 14,000 won per month for 24 months, or 168,000 won on a smart-device line, at 7,000 won per month. These discounts can be combined with the optional contract discount.
Subscribers who cancel the service or switch to another carrier will also receive a termination support payment of 40,000 won for a mobile phone line or 20,000 won for a smart-device line. Any early termination fees incurred when switching, canceling service or moving to another carrier will also be waived.
KT plans to provide information about the support through text messages, the KT.com website and app, among other channels. It will provide separate guidance to digitally vulnerable groups, including older adults, to minimize inconvenience during the service transition.
Kim Young-geol, an executive director and head of the Customer Business Division in KT's Customer Group, said, "We will continue to upgrade our network and improve service quality."
[email protected] Choi Hye-rim Reporter