South Korea\'s MVNO industry welcomed government measures to bolster MVNO competitiveness and said it would prepare more reasonably priced plans and push service innovation. The Korea MVNO Association said it welcomed the Ministry of Science and ICT\'s joint plan, calling it a chance to strengthen price competitiveness and secure new growth drivers. It highlighted cuts to wholesale rates for revenue-sharing plans and free data safety options, and voiced expectations for policies on unlocked mid-priced devices and improved eSIM use.

South Korea’s science ministry is introducing face authentication in the mobile phone sign-up process from July 6 across major carriers and budget operators, while allowing users to choose alternative verification from the start. The ministry said the opt-out reflects recommendations from privacy and human rights bodies, but it plans to monitor dealers to prevent intentional bypassing. Critics question whether the policy can curb illicit phone lines if it is optional.