Internet Access to Become Easier Even on Airplanes... Starlink and OneWeb to Launch Commercial Services This Year (Comprehensive)

Government Grants Simultaneous Approval for Three Low Earth Orbit Satellite Communication Agreements
The Era of Global Satellite Internet Set to Begin Soon

On May 30, the Ministry of Science and ICT approved both Starlink and OneWeb’s cross-border supply agreements for low Earth orbit satellite communication services in Korea, marking the country’s official entry into the era of global satellite internet.

This approval was granted following a rigorous review process in accordance with the Telecommunications Business Act. The ministry explained that it comprehensively examined the feasibility of stable service provision, the potential impact on competition within the domestic telecommunications market, and user protection measures.

In particular, since foreign satellite communication operators cannot directly provide services in Korea, SpaceX adopted a localization strategy by establishing Starlink Korea as a separate entity and registering it as a facilities-based telecommunications operator. OneWeb secured its entry route through partnerships with existing domestic telecommunications companies.

The remaining procedure is the conformity assessment of user antennas (terminals) under the Radio Waves Act. According to industry sources, this process typically takes one to two months, so actual service is expected to begin within this year at the latest.

This approval signals not just the introduction of a new telecommunications service, but a paradigm shift in the entire Korean telecommunications industry. Low Earth orbit satellite communication, which overcomes the limitations of existing terrestrial networks, is expected to play a groundbreaking role in eliminating coverage gaps, especially in mountainous and island regions. It is also gaining attention as an emergency communication network during disasters.

Furthermore, with new competition added to the existing monopoly of the three major telecom companies, consumers can expect benefits such as lower prices and improved service quality.

Intensifying global satellite internet competition: The low Earth orbit satellite communication market is rapidly growing worldwide. SpaceX’s Starlink is already leading the market by providing services in over 70 countries, while Amazon’s Project Kuiper and Europe’s OneWeb are also fiercely competing.

With their entry into the Korean market, competition among these global players in the Asia-Pacific region is expected to intensify even further. In particular, the Korean market, with its high level of technology adoption and purchasing power, is expected to serve as an important testbed for these companies.