SKT Discontinues 3G New Subscriptions…Implements LTE·5G Transition Support Program

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SKT Discontinues 3G New Subscriptions…Implements LTE·5G Transition Support Program

Published2026.08.20 09:36

Three Types of Selective Benefits Including Free Device Replacement and Up to 70% Rate Discount Provided; All Early Termination Fees Waived

Against the backdrop of declining subscribers, aging devices and equipment, and telecommunications environment restructuring centered on next-generation networks, SK Telecom has initiated a phased shutdown process for 3G service, which it has operated for 23 years. This discontinuation of new subscriptions represents a preliminary measure ahead of final service termination, with transition support measures for existing users also established.

SK Telecom announced on the 20th that it will discontinue new subscriptions, number transfers, and device changes for 3G devices and LTE devices without HD Voice support starting that day.

The company stated that it plans to subsequently apply for service termination approval from the Ministry of Science and ICT and gradually complete the procedures.

Major global carriers including Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T in the United States, NTT DoCoMo, SoftBank, and KDDI in Japan, and O2 in the United Kingdom have already terminated 3G services for the same reasons.

Operating Selective Transition Support Program

SK Telecom will implement a service transition support program targeting customers using 3G devices and LTE devices without HD Voice support as of August 20, 2026.

Transitioning customers can choose one of three options.

△Free replacement with one of three designated LTE·5G devices and up to 12,000 won monthly rate discount for 24 months △Up to 380,000 won device purchase subsidy and up to 12,000 won monthly discount for 24 months △Up to 70% discount on monthly subscription rate for 24 months (up to 700,000 won).

Regardless of the selected option, four refill coupons will be additionally provided.

Customers aged 65 and over can also subscribe to the 'New Silver Plan' at 9,900 won per month when transitioning to LTE·5G.

Customers who cancel without using transition support benefits or transfer to another carrier will receive a cancellation support allowance of 40,000 won, and all early termination fees incurred during the transition, cancellation, or transfer process will be waived in full.

Separate Guidance for Digitally Vulnerable Groups

SK Telecom announced that it will notify 3G subscribers of service termination schedules and support programs through △MMS △T World website and app △postal mail and email billing statements.

The company plans to provide separate guidance for customers who have difficulties using digital services, such as elderly customers.

Transition applications can be made at T World stores nationwide, SK Telecom customer centers, and the official online mall 'T Direct Shop'.

Yoon Jae-woong, Head of SK Telecom's Product & Brand Division, said, "We will carefully support the transition of each and every customer who has used 3G for a long time."

#5G #LTE #SKT #3G 서비스 종료 #통신 네트워크 #단말 교체 #요금 할인 #통신사

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