South Korea opens Market to LEO Satellite Internet Services
31. July 2025South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT has approved three cross-border agreements allowing low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet services to operate domestically. This includes Starlink Korea LLC’s arrangement with SpaceX and partnerships between Korean operators Hanwha Systems and KT SAT with Eutelsat’s OneWeb. The approvals clear the path for both Starlink and OneWeb to begin commercial operations as early as next month, pending final equipment certification under the country’s regulatory framework. Foreign telecommunications firms in Korea must form agreements with local license holders to legally offer services to end-users. Wireless reception equipment for low Earth orbit satellite services and radio equipment in general usually require KC EMC certification in order to be approved for import and sale in Korea.
The move marks a significant shift in South Korea’s telecommunications landscape, historically dominated by SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus, and aligns with national efforts to lead in 6G infrastructure. LEO satellite networks, such as Starlink’s over 7,100 satellites and OneWeb’s expanding constellation, provide high-speed, low-latency coverage especially valuable in remote or mobile environments. KT SAT, already operating the Mugunghwa geostationary satellite, and Hanwha Systems, which holds an 8.8% stake in OneWeb, are positioning themselves as key players in the evolving market. Emerging technologies like direct-to-cell and inter-satellite laser communications are also expected to transform the competitive dynamics, potentially challenging traditional terrestrial networks in select use cases.
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