MSIT Announces Stage X as Winner of 28 GHz Band Frequency Allocation
The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT, Minister Lee Jong Ho) announced that Stage X has emerged as the successful bidder for the 28 GHz band frequency allocation through a rigorous auction process.
The 28 GHz band frequency auction, initiated by MSIT on January 25, underwent a comprehensive first phase of multi-round sealed bidding (rounds 39-50) from 9:00 a.m. to 5:50 p.m. on January 31. Following this, a second phase of sealed bidding commenced at 7:00 p.m. due to the absence of a clear winner in the initial rounds. Stage X, with a bid of KRW 430.1 billion, secured the spectrum allocation, marking a significant milestone.
Introduced in July 2023 as a designated frequency for fifth-generation (5G) mobile communications, the 28 GHz band attracted applications from three companies during the submission period from November 20 to December 19, 2023. MSIT meticulously reviewed the eligibility of these applicants and officially confirmed their eligibility on January 9, 2024. The subsequent auction process, which included a detailed briefing session on auction rules, saw Stage X and another participant, MyMobile, persistently competing for the spectrum following Sejong Telecom's withdrawal on the first day of auction.
With the selection of Stage X as the frequency allocation recipient, MSIT is now prepared to guide the entity through the necessary documentation for frequency allocation notification. This will facilitate a swift completion of the frequency allocation notification and the subsequent registration of the telecommunications business.
Minister of Science and ICT, Lee Jong Ho, expressed his gratitude to all participating companies for their commendable efforts throughout the competitive process. Minister Lee stated, "As the 28 GHz band allocation process has been completed, we are committed to supporting the new operator in entering the market expeditiously."
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.