KT will stop accepting new subscriptions for its 3G service. The move is aimed at responding to ageing 3G equipment and a decline in users.
KT said on Sunday it will halt new sign-ups, number transfers and device changes for 3G handsets and LTE devices that do not support HD Voice. Starting with the suspension of new subscriptions, it will also review ending its 3G service.
KT commercialised 3G service in 2003 and launched its 3G brand, SHOW, in 2007. 3G users have continued to decline as the telecommunications environment has been reshaped around LTE and 5G. With related equipment recently ageing, it decided to stop new sign-ups. SK Telecom previously stopped new 3G sign-ups from Aug. 20.
KT will run a transition support programme for existing users, offering device replacements and fee discounts. Eligible customers are those using a 3G handset or an LTE device that does not support HD Voice as of 12 a.m. on Sunday.
Customers can choose a compensation option that suits them. They can replace their device for free with 1 of 3 designated LTE and 5G models and receive a monthly fee discount of 12,000 won for 24 months. They can also buy a device of their choice and receive device-change points and fee discount benefits.
For customers who buy a device themselves, mobile phones will receive 150,000 won in device-change points and a monthly discount of 12,000 won for 24 months. Smart devices will receive 75,000 won in device-change points and a monthly discount of 6,000 won. The common subsidy can also be applied in addition.
If customers choose only a fee discount without device replacement support, they will receive a monthly discount for 24 months of 14,000 won for mobile phones and 7,000 won for smart devices. It can also be applied in addition to a contract discount plan.
KT will pay termination support subsidies to customers who cancel service or move to another carrier, at 40,000 won for mobile phone lines and 20,000 won for smart device lines. It will also waive penalties that occur in the process of switching to LTE and 5G, cancelling service or moving to another carrier.
KT plans to provide information on the schedule for stopping new sign-ups and the support programme through text messages, the KT.com website and its app. It plans to provide separate guidance to digitally vulnerable groups, such as older people, to minimise inconvenience.
Young-geol Kim (김영걸), an executive director and head of KT’s Customer Business Division, said, “We will minimise inconvenience and burden for 3G customers and support them so they can make choices suited to their circumstances.” He added, “We will continue network upgrades and improvements in service quality to provide more stable and convenient telecommunications services.”
