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Photo = Yonhap news |
[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] SpaceX’s satellite internet service, Starlink, is expected to officially launch in South Korea soon. The government recently completed a legal revision to facilitate the introduction of low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite communication services. Industry sources anticipate that Starlink’s service could be available domestically as early as June.
On the 25th, the government held a cabinet meeting and approved amendments to the Radio Waves Act enforcement decree. The revisions aim to streamline the procedures for introducing LEO satellite communication services in South Korea and establish the necessary regulatory framework. The Ministry of Science and ICT plans to officially announce the amendments on April 1.
LEO satellites operate at an altitude of 100 to 2,000 km, significantly closer to Earth than geostationary satellites (36,000 km). This proximity allows for lower latency and faster data transmission speeds. Additionally, LEO satellite networks provide reliable connectivity in remote areas such as mountainous regions and islands, where traditional communication networks struggle to reach.
The new amendments also simplify the installation process for satellite communication terminals. Under the revised regulations, antennas attached to vehicles, ships, and aircraft will be classified as ground stations for broadband high-speed satellite communication. Previously, users had to go through a direct approval or notification process to set up terminals. Now, a "deemed approval" system will allow satellite communication providers to apply on behalf of users.
For Starlink to launch in South Korea, two final approvals remain:
Government approval of the cross-border supply agreement between Starlink Korea and SpaceX headquarters.
Terminal compliance certification for use within South Korea.
Once these steps are completed, Starlink’s service will officially launch in the country.
Starlink is also gaining attention as a crucial emergency communication network. Unlike traditional networks that rely on ground-based infrastructure, Starlink’s satellite network remains operational even in disaster-stricken areas.
During the recent wildfires in North Gyeongsang Province, local communication networks were disrupted, highlighting the potential role of satellite communication as an alternative. In the past, Starlink’s mobile satellite base stations were deployed in disaster zones, such as during the California wildfires, to provide internet access to affected areas.
AlphaBIZ Kim Jisun(stockmk2020@alphabiz.co.kr)
