Below is an update regarding recent developments on the 5G-specialized network ("5G Specialized Network") regime which simplifies the procedure for a network operator to provide telecommunications service using 5G frequencies, which may be relevant to telecommunications businesses.

At the end of March 2022, LG CNS Co., Ltd., a Korean system integrator company, was selected as a 5G Specialized Network operator by receiving frequency bands of 28GHz band with 500MHz width (28.9GHz - 29.4GHz), 4.7GHz band with 100MHz width (4.72GHz - 4.82GHz), etc.  This was the second case a 5G Specialized Network operator been selected since NAVER Cloud Corp., was first selected as a 5G Network Operator in December 2021.

In 2021, the government amended the relevant subordinate regulations of the Telecommunications Business Act and the Radio Waves Act to establish the 5G Specialized Network regime to simplify the procedures for receiving 5G frequencies in order to provide wireless telecommunications services.  In contrast to nationwide 5G mobile networks, a 5G Specialized Network provides customized services for people or devices in a particular industry or region.  By simplifying the procedures for receiving and being assigned 5G frequencies through the 5G Specialized Network regime, the government made it possible for parties other than the existing mobile network operators, such as NAVER Cloud Corp., and LG CNS Co., Ltd., to utilize 5G frequencies in providing their telecommunications services.

As a result of these developments, several multinational telecommunication device manufacturers (e.g., Nokia Oyj, Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson, etc.) have been reported to have strengthened their research activities in Korea regarding 5G Specialized Networks. We will update you on any further developments regarding the foregoing report regarding the 5G Specialized Network regime.

[Korean version]