Mobile number portability hits seven-year high in Korea

In February, the mobile telecommunications industry saw a significant increase in number portability. A total of 575,642 phone numbers were moved, up from 494,530 in January. This is the highest monthly figure in over seven years. The rise is believed to be linked to the recent launch of the Galaxy S25 smartphone. The budget phone market, however, did not share in this success. Although there were 287,491 number transfers in February, this was a smaller increase compared to last year. The net gain in affordable phones was 42,426, which is down by 35% from February 2024 and down by 46% from January 2024. The three main telecom companies have started competing for customers by increasing subsidies for the Galaxy S25. These subsidies can go up to 500,000 won, nearly double previous amounts. In contrast, budget phone companies lack new strategies to attract customers. The Ministry of Science and ICT announced new price plans for 5G services due to lower wholesale prices for affordable phones. However, the industry feels different pressures. Many 5G users prefer unlimited plans over limited ones, making it unclear if budget phone companies can remain profitable in this competitive environment.