If You Can't Wait for a USIM Replacement... SKT Scrambles with Introduction of 'USIM Format'

Complicated eSIM Activation Process Simplified
Use Without Replacement Through 'USIM Format'

#Jung Sookhee, a woman in her 50s who has been a long-time SK Telecom customer, recently failed to activate an eSIM (embedded Subscriber Identity Module) through the 'self-activation' process and ended up visiting a service center. The eSIM is a method of embedding subscriber information directly into the phone, without the need for a physical USIM card. Activating an eSIM has the same effect as replacing a USIM card. Above all, it is convenient because subscribers can activate it themselves through an application (app). While eSIM activation has emerged as a solution to the USIM shortage crisis, the problem is that the process is complicated. Jung said, "During the eSIM activation process, I was asked to enter information such as the device's IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) or the eSIM identifier (EID), but I couldn't find them at all, so I had to ask for help at the service center."

As user inconvenience became an issue, on May 9, a senior SKT official stated, "We will simplify the eSIM self-activation procedure so that anyone can activate it easily," and added, "Next week, we will introduce a system in which device and personal information are automatically entered during the eSIM activation process." Currently, users must manually locate and enter the IMEI and EID before they can begin signing up for an eSIM. After entering their name, resident registration number, and phone number, they must go through an identity verification process and enter their payment information before the procedure is complete. However, starting next week, if such information is automatically entered during the eSIM activation process, subscribers will no longer have to struggle to find information like the IMEI or EID. Information such as name, resident registration number, and phone number is also expected to be entered automatically.

A menu will also be added to the main page of both PC and mobile platforms, allowing users to go directly to the eSIM subscription page. The SKT official said, "Since 100% of eligible customers completed subscription to the USIM Protection Service as of the previous day, the eSIM subscription guide will now replace the USIM Protection Service guide on the main page."

Starting May 12, a 'USIM format' feature, which has the same effect as replacing a USIM card, will also be available. USIM format is a technology that partially changes the information on the USIM used in your phone, making it different from any leaked information. This allows users to achieve the same effect as replacing the physical USIM card without actually changing it. An SKT official said, "When you replace a USIM card, you usually have to back up data or reset your apps, but the advantage of USIM format is that these steps are unnecessary."

A technology upgrade that allows users to use both the USIM Protection Service and international roaming simultaneously will be available from May 14, one day earlier than originally planned. Until now, if a customer subscribed to the USIM Protection Service to prevent unauthorized USIM use overseas, they could not use international roaming. As user complaints arose, SKT announced that starting May 15, international roaming would be possible even when the USIM protection feature is enabled.