South Korea is preparing to welcome SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service this year after recent changes to national telecommunications regulations cleared the way for its market entry.
According to the Ministry of Science and ICT, amendments to the Radio Waves Act earlier this month have enabled foreign low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet providers like Starlink to offer services locally. Starlink Korea LLC, SpaceX’s South Korean subsidiary, had applied in May 2023 for approval of a cross-border supply agreement — a mandatory step for foreign communication service providers under Korean law.
The Telecommunications Policy Bureau is currently reviewing Starlink’s business plans and financial feasibility, according to comments made by Kim Nam-cheol, director-general of the ministry’s radio policy bureau during a recent briefing. (via JoongAng Daily)
Nam-cheol said during the briefing that Starlink could launch as early as June, or later in the year, depending on the outcome of the review. Once operational, Starlink will bring its high-speed, low-latency internet services to areas of South Korea that traditionally suffer from poor connectivity, such as remote islands, ships, and aircraft.
The arrival of Starlink could be particularly transformative for the maritime industry, the ministry noted. Crews on long-haul voyages will gain the ability to access streaming services, make video calls, and stay connected like never before — a significant step forward in improving communication and welfare for seafarers.
Starlink’s launch will not go unchallenged. British rival OneWeb is also exploring opportunities to offer its LEO satellite services in South Korea, which is the fourth-largest economy in Asia.
