South Korea introduces basic free internet

South Korea has introduced a universal level of access to mobile internet at a speed of 400 kbps. After exhausting their paid data allowance, users automatically switch to the basic mode without additional charges. The mechanism has been implemented with the participation of the country’s largest telecom operators.

Previously, mobile internet remained a fully commercial service with limitations on volume and speed. Even with broad coverage and developed infrastructure, access to the network depended on the chosen tariff plan. The new approach establishes a minimum guaranteed level of connectivity regardless of the subscriber’s spending.

The decision reflects the state’s strategy to закрепить internet access as a socially significant service. For operators, this represents a compromise between maintaining paid tariffs and fulfilling a social function. The limited speed allows basic services to operate without placing significant strain on networks.

In practice, this expands access to digital services, including messaging apps, navigation, and government services. For the economy, it creates conditions for engaging more users in the digital environment and reduces barriers to online interaction.

At the same time, limitations remain. A speed of 400 kbps is not suitable for streaming video or complex applications. It is unclear how network load will be regulated in case of widespread use of the basic mode and whether this will affect the quality of paid services.