SK Telecom's Euljiro headquarters. [SK Telecom]
SK Telecom's Euljiro headquarters. [SK Telecom]

SK Telecom will stop accepting new 3G subscriptions, citing changes in the telecommunications environment including a decline in subscribers and the aging of devices and network equipment.

The company plans to run customer-tailored programs offering device upgrades and rate discounts to help existing 3G users migrate to LTE or 5G.

SK Telecom announced Thursday that it will halt new 3G service sign-ups ahead of a planned gradual phase-out of the network. Starting Thursday, new subscriptions, number transfers and device changes — including SIM card swaps — will no longer be accepted for 3G handsets or LTE devices that do not support HD Voice.

The move reflects three converging trends: a steady decline in 3G subscribers and traffic, the aging of 3G handsets and network equipment, and a broader shift toward next-generation network infrastructure.

SK Telecom will simultaneously offer transition support for 3G customers moving to LTE or 5G. A service migration program will be available to customers currently using 3G handsets or LTE devices without HD Voice support, based on their subscription status as of midnight Thursday.

Customers can choose from three options: a free device replacement (one of three designated LTE or 5G models) with a monthly rate discount of up to 12,000 won ($9) for 24 months; a device purchase subsidy of up to 380,000 won with a monthly rate discount of up to 12,000 won for 24 months; or a discount of up to 70 percent on their monthly plan fee for 24 months, capped at a total of 700,000 won.

For smart device lines — including tablets, smartwatches and laptops — customers may choose between a device purchase subsidy of up to 190,000 won with a monthly rate discount of up to 6,000 won for 24 months, or a discount of up to 35 percent on their monthly plan fee for 24 months, capped at 350,000 won.

Customers will also receive four additional refill coupons. Each coupon can be redeemed for either a 20 percent top-up on voice minutes or a 100 percent top-up on data. The coupons apply only to lines that have completed a device change and cannot be transferred or gifted.

Existing 3G subscribers aged 65 or older who switch to LTE or 5G will be eligible to enroll in the "New Silver Plan," priced at 9,900 won per month.

Customers who cancel their service or move to another carrier will receive a termination support payment of 40,000 won, or 20,000 won for smart device lines. Early termination fees incurred during a service transition, cancellation or carrier switch will also be waived.

SK Telecom will notify 3G subscribers of the phase-out plan and available support programs through MMS, the T World website and app, and postal mail and email. Customers who have difficulty using digital services, including elderly users, will receive separate, dedicated guidance.

Customers seeking transition support can apply through any T World store nationwide, the SK Telecom customer service center, or the official online shop T Direct Shop.

"We will carefully look at each customer's individual situation and provide tailored support for the transition," said Yoon Jae-woong, head of SK Telecom's Product & Brand division. "We will continue to strengthen our network quality and service competitiveness so that all customers can enjoy more stable and convenient telecommunications services."


ko@heraldcorp.com