- OECD Digital Economy Outlook (DEO) 2024, Volume 2 published

- Korea recognized as a leading country in connectivity, including 5G and telecommunications affordability

The Ministry of Science and ICT (Minister: Yoo Sang-im) announced that Korea received high marks for its digital infrastructure in the OECD Digital Economy Outlook (DEO)* 2024, Volume 2, published on November 19 (local time in Paris) by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

* The report, led by the OECD Digital Policy Committee, analyzes the digital sector and global trends using member countries' statistical data and survey responses, providing key statistics and policy insights.

According to the report, with the intensification of digital transformation, the demand for high-quality broadband services has continued to grow. Investment in the telecommunications sector across OECD member countries increased by 18% over five years (2018–2023), with an average annual growth rate of 3.4%. This highlights the recognition of telecommunications infrastructure as a critical factor in digital transformation, with member nations making nationwide efforts to advance it.

The report notes that mobile broadband subscriptions within OECD member countries more than doubled over a decade (2013–2023), reaching 1.86 billion. This growth was attributed mainly to the introduction of 5G.

Notably, Korea was highlighted as follows:

 1st in 5G Base Stations Relative to Population: Korea has 593 base stations per 100,000 inhabitants, ranking first ahead of Lithuania (328) and Finland (251). (OECD average: approximately 100 / No. of surveyed countries: 29 including China and EU)

 2nd in 5G Connections Relative to Population: Korea records 63 connections per 100 inhabitants, following the United States (68.4) and ahead of Finland (58), China (approximately 57), Australia (57) and Japan (56). (OECD average: 38.6 / No. of surveyed countries: 37 including China and EU)

 Most Affordable Triple-Play Bundles: Korea offers the lowest-cost bundled services combining fixed broadband, fixed voice and pay television.

As high-quality network access is essential for digital transformation, these findings demonstrate that Korea has established a solid foundation for its digital transition, affirming its readiness as a leading digital nation.

The report also covered policy and technological trends related to digital security, introducing initiatives such as Korea's IoT Security Certification, the EU's Cybersecurity Certification, and Japan's CCDS IoT Security Certification. Additionally, it examined how advancements in homomorphic encryption and quantum computing will influence digital security.

Minister Yoo Sang-im stated, “The OECD Digital Economy Outlook has allowed us to grasp global trends in digital infrastructure while confirming that Korea’s efforts and achievements in building digital infrastructure are at a high level. We will continue to focus on creating innovative network environments and establishing a secure digital ecosystem.”

For further information, please contact the Public Relations Division (Phone: +82-44-202-4034, E-mail: msitmedia@korea.kr) of the Ministry of Science and ICT. 

Please refer to the attached PDF.