Starlink Logo. (Image: Starlink)

 

 

[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] South Korea will introduce Starlink satellite communication services to 300 ships in the first half of the year, significantly enhancing internet access for sailors who often spend more than six months at sea. The Korea Shipowners' Association plans to gradually expand support, aiming to equip over 1,000 ships with Starlink services.

The introduction of Starlink is expected to greatly improve sailors' welfare. High-speed communication networks are essential for both work and leisure on long voyages. With companies increasingly focusing on crew welfare, demand for high-speed communication for services like online video streaming (OTT), online education, and gaming has surged.

While international vessels have been using Starlink through foreign licenses, South Korean ships faced restrictions due to local telecommunications laws. To provide terrestrial communication services in South Korea, foreign operators must form agreements with domestic providers and obtain government approval.

The Korea Shipowners' Association is working with individual companies to align with regulatory approval timelines. The association includes 179 domestic members, such as major shipping companies like HMM, Hyundai Glovis, and Pan Ocean.

 

 

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