"All Development Resources Mobilized... System Development Underway"
"Additional 5 Million SIM Cards to Be Secured by End of May"
On April 29, SK Telecom announced that it would implement a "SIM format" method, which changes the SIM card software, to achieve the same effect as physically replacing the SIM card without actually having to do so, in order to protect subscriber information.
On the 28th, customers visiting an official SK Telecom certified agency in Jung-gu, Seoul, are waiting to replace their SIM cards. SK Telecom plans to offer free SIM card replacement services to subscribers starting today. April 28, 2025. Photo by Kang Jinhyung
In an official statement released on the same day, SK Telecom said, "We are mobilizing all our development resources to find solutions to the current SIM card inventory shortage and the inconvenience experienced by roaming customers," and added, "We expect to resolve both issues through system development within May."
One of the solutions is the SIM format method, which involves changing the SIM card software. SK Telecom explained that this method can provide the same effect as replacing the SIM card without the need for a physical replacement, and is expected to alleviate customer inconvenience.
However, the SIM format also requires customers to visit a store to complete system matching procedures related to SIM card changes. SK Telecom expects that this will be possible by mid-May.
The existing "SIM Protection Service" is also being developed to allow customers to use it while roaming and simultaneously overseas. SK Telecom stated, "We are working to provide the new service by mid-May," and added, "In the future, customers planning overseas travel or business trips will be able to use the SIM Protection Service more conveniently and securely."
Previously, in response to growing customer concerns following a cyber breach incident, SK Telecom recommended that customers subscribe to the SIM Protection Service and began offering free SIM card replacement services.
However, the SIM Protection Service was criticized for not being available during roaming, and the free SIM card replacement service faced delays due to a shortage of physical inventory. SK Telecom stated, "We currently have secured one million SIM cards, and we plan to procure an additional five million by the end of May."
The company further projected, "The processing capacity for SIM Protection Service subscriptions has been significantly increased, and we expect the number of subscribers to exceed 10 million on April 29 and reach about 15 million by early May."
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