LG Uplus said on April 12 it will start USIM updates and free replacements for all customers from April 13 to provide safe telecommunications services.

The measure aims to raise customer protection by applying a new security system that introduces random numbers into the subscriber identity number (IMSI) framework. In-store USIM updates and free replacements will be carried out sequentially through advance reservations.

LG Uplus customers can first check on the U+one app and the LG Uplus website whether they are eligible for a USIM update or replacement. Customers who can update their USIM can take action directly through a simple online update. Customers who want an in-store USIM update or replacement can receive the service conveniently by visiting after making a reservation.

LG Uplus has operated a "store visit reservation" system through the U+one app and its website since April 8. Customers can select the store, date and time slot they want. From the launch of the reservation system through April 11, it received 157,811 store-visit reservations. To minimise customer inconvenience early in the rollout, LG Uplus will deploy about 5,700 on-site staff and 522 headquarters support staff across 1,719 stores nationwide.

Customers can also visit stores without a reservation, but LG Uplus recommends visiting after making a reservation to reduce early congestion and minimise waiting time. For identity verification, customers should bring an ID and the phone they are using. If an agent visits on the customer's behalf, documents required for the authorisation procedure are needed in addition to the customer's phone.

To improve access for digitally vulnerable groups, LG Uplus will also support USIM replacements at 61 senior welfare centres nationwide. Active-duty soldiers on service will be supported with updates and replacements by courier upon request through the U+one app and the website.

LG Uplus also urged customers to watch for spam and smishing messages impersonating the company. It explained that when it provides guidance by text message, it is operated so that reservations and eligibility checks are possible only through its official channels, the U+one app and the website.

To ensure smooth operations early in the rollout, it will also run a companywide Customer Care Situation Room. Major departments, including the consumer division, the chief technology officer and the network division, plan to review progress on USIM updates and replacements, the status of the reservation system and on-site issues.

Jae-won Lee (이재원), head of LG Uplus' consumer division and a vice president, said, "This measure is a decision at the level of preemptively strengthening security so that customers can use mobile services with greater peace of mind." He added, "For USIM updates, if customers avoid crowded time slots by referring to the expected waiting time, the process should proceed smoothly without waiting."