[Asia Economy Reporter Joselgina] Samsung Electronics' new foldable smartphone, the 'Galaxy Z Flip3,' has seen its official subsidy increase up to 600,000 KRW. As a result, consumers' actual purchase price drops to the 560,000 KRW range.
According to industry sources on the 10th, KT raised the official subsidy for the Z Flip3 from a maximum of 500,000 KRW to 600,000 KRW as of that day. This is the highest level among the three major mobile carriers.
The Z Flip3's retail price remains unchanged at 1,254,000 KRW since its launch. When combined with additional subsidies from distribution channels, consumers can purchase the Z Flip3 starting from the low 560,000 KRW range.
Following LG Uplus, KT also increased its subsidy on the same day, and SK Telecom is expected to adjust its subsidy soon. Previously, LG Uplus raised the official subsidy for the Z Flip3 from a maximum of 500,000 KRW to 559,000 KRW last month. SK Telecom has maintained a maximum subsidy of 500,000 KRW since the phone's release in August.
This subsidy increase is interpreted as part of an aggressive marketing effort to accelerate the "popularization of foldable phones" ahead of the year-end shopping season. The official subsidy combines support from smartphone manufacturers and carriers and is set differently according to each company's sales strategy. Currently, Samsung Electronics is also preparing to launch its strategic flagship, the 'Galaxy S22,' early next year. Last month, Samsung Electronics and the three major carriers also raised the official subsidy for the 'Galaxy Z Fold3.'
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