Telecommunications & Media

MVNO growth slows despite government support measures

South Korea has expanded support for smaller mobile virtual network operators, including higher spectrum fee discounts and lower wholesale data rates, but the market remains challenging. MVNOs recorded net subscriber losses in the number portability market last month as the three major carriers gained customers. Industry officials cite intensifying handset purchase support and marketing competition, and say unified 5G-LTE plans and added benefits in low-priced tiers are weakening MVNOs\' traditional price appeal.

Industry

LG Electronics targets global market with heat pump technology

LG Electronics is stepping up efforts to accelerate the shift to carbon neutrality at industrial sites with industrial heat pumps. The company supplied a large-capacity heat pump system to paper maker Ajin P&P in Daegu and began operations in early July. The project is part of a government-led national R&D programme pursued since 2023 by 15 industry, academia and research bodies including LG Electronics.