[Edaily Reporter Yun Junghoon ]SKTelecom(017670)has officially announced the phased phase-out of its 3G mobile service, with the first step being a complete halt to new subscriptions. This comes 23 years after the company launched commercial 3G service in 2003.

SKT announced that starting on the 20th, it will suspend new subscriptions, number porting, and device upgrades (including SIM card changes) for 3G devices and LTE devices that do not support HD Voice, and will begin fully supporting the transition of existing subscribers to LTE and 5G. As of June 2026, SKT had 134,413 3G subscribers. When combined with KTCorporation and MVNO subscribers, the total number of 3G subscribers is approximately 330,000.

This measure is intended to address the continuous decline in subscribers and traffic, aging equipment, and shifts toward next-generation networks (5G and 6G). Major global telecom carriers, such as Verizon and AT&T in the U.S., NTT DoCoMo in Japan, and O2 in the U.K., have already discontinued their 3G services to improve spectrum efficiency and ensure the sustainability of network operations.

SKT plans to apply to the Ministry of Science and ICT for approval to discontinue 3G services. SKT aims to complete the phase-out by the end of next year.

Launch of an “Optional Transition Program” Offering “Free Handsets and Rate Discounts”

SKT is launching a generous “Service Transition Support Program” to ensure that existing 3G customers and users of LTE devices that do not support HD Voice can transition seamlessly. Upon transition, existing bundle discounts and long-term customer benefits will remain unchanged.

Eligible customers can choose one of the following options when switching services: ① a free device replacement (choose one from three designated LTE or 5G models) and a monthly discount of up to 12,000 won for 24 months; ② a device purchase subsidy (up to 380,000 won) and a monthly discount of up to 12,000 won for 24 months; or ③ a discount of up to 70% on the monthly plan fee for 24 months(up to 700,000 won) for 24 months. Additionally, regardless of the program selected, customers will receive four additional refill coupons.

The four refill coupons are provided separately from the selected program. For customers aged 65 or older who switch, the company allows them to continue using the existing “New Silver Plan” at approximately 9,900 won per month to minimize their billing burden.

Furthermore, customers who cancel their service or switch to another carrier without receiving the transition benefits will receive a 40,000 won cancellation support payment and have their entire cancellation fee waived.

◇ Personalized Guidance for Digitally Vulnerable Groups… “Meticulous Support”

SKT will provide information on the service termination and transition support program through various channels, including text messages (MMS), T World, and billing statements sent by mail or email. In particular, the company plans to minimize inconvenience for the digitally vulnerable, such as the elderly, by establishing separate guidance procedures for them.

Customers can apply for the transition at T World stores nationwide, through the customer service center, or via the official online store, “T Direct Shop.”

Yoon Jae-woong, Head of SK Telecom’s Product & Brand Division, stated, “We will carefully assess the situation of each and every customer who has used 3G for a long time and support their transition,” adding, “We will continue to strengthen network quality and service competitiveness so that all customers can enjoy more stable and convenient telecommunications services.”