Will SK Telecom Restart New Subscriptions After USIM Replacement?
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Synopsis
SK Telecom is set to resume new subscriptions after a comprehensive USIM replacement for its 25 million users. This action comes in the wake of a data breach that led to a temporary suspension of services. Find out how the company is ensuring customer security and what this means for new subscribers.
Key Takeaways
- New subscriptions by SK Telecom resume after USIM replacements.
- The data breach led to a temporary suspension of services.
- SK Telecom completed replacements for its 25 million users.
- Free USIM replacements were offered to all subscribers.
- New subscriptions available at 2,600 T World stores.
Seoul, June 23 (NationPress) The Ministry of Science and ICT announced on Monday that it will lift the suspension on new subscription sales by SK Telecom Co. after the mobile provider successfully completed the universal subscriber identity module (USIM) replacements for its entire user base of 25 million.
Starting Tuesday, SK Telecom is permitted to resume new subscription services, as reported by the Yonhap news agency.
This decision follows a two-month period during which the government halted new subscriptions due to a data breach, where sensitive USIM information was potentially compromised during an unknown cyberattack on the company's servers. The ban remained in effect while SK Telecom undertook a large-scale USIM replacement initiative.
According to the ministry, "SK Telecom has ensured a sufficient supply of USIM chips, and its USIM booking system is functioning effectively." The ban was lifted as the objectives of the administrative guidance have been met.
Nevertheless, the ministry has instructed SK Telecom to continue prioritizing USIM replacement requests from users.
SK Telecom confirmed that new subscriptions will be available at its 2,600 T World retail locations starting Tuesday. "We are committed to providing services to new subscribers seamlessly through our extensive distribution network," the company stated. "Furthermore, we will continue to assist customers wishing to replace their USIM cards due to the security breach."
In late April, SK Telecom initiated free USIM card replacements for all subscribers, including 2 million budget phone users, to mitigate the risk of identity theft or financial fraud following the data breach.
The South Korean government had mandated the company to suspend new subscriptions at its retail outlets nationwide until the replacement process was fully completed.
As the replacement process approached its conclusion, SK Telecom resumed limited new subscriptions using embedded SIMs (eSIMs) last week, according to reports.
Point of View
We recognize the importance of maintaining consumer trust in telecommunications. SK Telecom's prompt action to replace USIMs and resume subscriptions reflects a commitment to safeguarding user data amidst challenges. We support measures that enhance security while promoting innovation in the sector.
NationPress
23/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the suspension of new subscriptions by SK Telecom?
The suspension was initiated due to a data breach that potentially compromised sensitive USIM information during a cyberattack on the company's servers.
When will new subscriptions resume?
New subscriptions will resume on Tuesday following the completion of USIM replacements for all current users.
How is SK Telecom ensuring data security for new subscribers?
SK Telecom has implemented a comprehensive USIM replacement strategy and continues to provide support for customers affected by the data breach.
Where can I subscribe to SK Telecom's services?
New subscriptions will be available at SK Telecom's 2,600 T World retail stores.
Will there be any costs for USIM replacements?
SK Telecom is offering free USIM card replacements for all subscribers to prevent identity theft and fraud.
