Ministry of Science and ICT Finalizes Cancellation of SKT 5G 28GHz Frequency Allocation

The Ministry of Science and ICT announced on the 31st that it has finalized the cancellation of the 5G 28GHz frequency allocation to SK Telecom, which was previously notified in advance.

On the 12th, the Ministry of Science and ICT issued a prior notice to SKT regarding the cancellation of the allocation due to non-fulfillment of allocation conditions. On the 23rd, a hearing was held to listen to the opinions of the subject of the disposition (presided over by Attorney Song Doyoung of the law firm Bit). During the hearing, SKT expressed a deep sense of responsibility for failing to meet the allocation conditions but did not raise any objections to the prior notified disposition.

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With the cancellation of the allocation, SKT's use of the 28GHz band will be suspended as of today. However, SKT expressed its intention to responsibly continue the construction and operation of the subway Wi-Fi that utilizes the already established 28GHz band as backhaul, in keeping with its promise to the public. Accordingly, the Ministry of Science and ICT has decided to exceptionally allow the use of the frequency for subway lines until November 30.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Science and ICT is currently promoting the entry of new operators into the 28GHz band and plans to announce detailed information related to frequency allocation through a future 28GHz band allocation notice.