South Korea Introduces Free Internet Access for Citizens After Data Exhaustion
The South Korean government is announcing a major telecommunications development, mandating free mobile data at 400kbps for citizens who have used up their data. The initiative, which aims to ensure basic digital access for seven million residents, is expected to change the landscape of digital service usage in the country.
The Ministry of Information and Communications Science and Technology (ICT) finalized the agreement with the region's major providers, such as SK Telecom, KT and LG Uplus, and integrated this feature into all existing LTE and 5G plans. This policy aims to ensure seamless use of basic services, such as messaging and web browsing, without additional charges.
Economic Impact and Relief for Consumers
The new policy is expected to reduce telecommunications costs by up to 322,1 billion won annually for consumers. The 400 kbps speed is considered sufficient to maintain basic internet functions, ensuring users can access the internet even if they run out of data. Estimates show that the measure will immediately cover 7,17 million subscriptions, an effort to strengthen the country's economic stability amid inflationary pressures in East Asia.
Support Strategies for the Elderly
As part of this policy, special arrangements have been planned for citizens over 65. These users will have access to unlimited voice calls and text messages, as well as additional free data volume. The automatic transition to the new benefits upon registration in regular plans aims to ease the burden on the elderly, narrowing the digital divide and ensuring access to critical services.
Invoice Adjustments and Program Simplification
Mobile carriers also pledged to lower the starting price of 5G plans to 20.000 won, from around 40.000 won previously. The plan includes reducing the number of available plans from 250 to less than half. This consolidation is aimed at eliminating confusion and making it easier for consumers to compare services.
Security and Trust Management
The acceptance of these measures by telecommunications providers is also linked to recent security breaches. A major data leak from SK Telecom and the LG Uplus crisis, with the appearance of 3TB files on the dark web, have affected citizens' trust in companies. The Korean government points out that providers must fulfill their social role and restore trust with the public.
Public Support and Development of Investments in Artificial Intelligence
The South Korean government is also investing in increasing infrastructure to support artificial intelligence applications (AI). The Ministry of ICT asks providers to focus on network infrastructure and not only on data centers, ensuring the accessibility of new technologies to all citizens. At the same time, the state supports the research for next-generation networks, provided that companies optimize Wi-Fi quality in public transport and rail services.
Notification System for Optimal Package Options
A new notification system will be implemented from October 2026 to help users choose the right package based on their actual consumption. This regulatory intervention is crucial to protecting consumers, enabling them to avoid unnecessary charges.
In an era where access to data is considered a fundamental right, the South Korean government is strengthening social responsibility by combining technology with humanity, promoting equal access in the digital age.
