SK Telecom Tightens 3G Services from August 20 to Advance Network Phase-Out

en.Wedoany.com Reported - SK Telecom is gradually shutting down its third-generation (3G) mobile network in South Korea, guiding users toward LTE and 5G services. Starting August 20, the company will no longer accept new subscriptions for 3G devices or LTE devices that do not support HD Voice, while also restricting number portability, device changes, and SIM card swaps involving these devices.

Some affected LTE devices rely on the 3G network for voice calls. Once SK Telecom terminates 3G network operations, these customers may encounter difficulties when making calls.

SK Telecom stated that the decision to terminate the service was driven by the continued decline in 3G subscriber numbers and data usage, as well as the aging of network equipment and terminals. The freed-up spectrum and network resources will be redirected to newer technologies such as LTE and 5G.

SK Telecom launched its 3G service in 2003, which played a key role in popularizing mobile internet and video calling in South Korea. As mobile users migrate to newer technologies, operators in other markets are also phasing out legacy 3G networks. Verizon and AT&T in the United States have already shut down their respective 3G networks, and major Japanese operators have also initiated the 3G phase-out process, citing declining usage and the need to improve spectrum efficiency.

SK Telecom said it will support existing 3G customers in transitioning to LTE and 5G services and plans to seek approval from South Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT to terminate its 3G business. As demand for legacy 3G continues to decline, this move will enable SK Telecom to redirect network resources toward newer mobile technologies.