LG to partner with Space X for LEO satellite services

[Courtesy of Space X]

South Korean wireless services provider LG Uplus Corp. will partner with Space Exploration Technologies Corp., also known as Space X, to leverage the U.S. aerospace firm’s Starlink, a satellite internet constellation in low Earth orbit (LEO). LEO satellites and satellite cellular services are often considered future alternatives without coverage limitations.

According to sources with knowledge of the partnership, LG Uplus recently completed talks with Space X, Starlink’s manufacturer. While other mobile carriers included their affiliates in talks with Space X, LG Uplus participated as a direct entity.

Space X set up a subsidiary called Starlink Korea LLC in South Korea in November 2022 for the Starlink service. The subsidiary recently applied for business registration with the Korean authorities.

In response to the application, the Ministry of Science and ICT will likely start its qualification review to evaluate the quality of the Starlink services, user protection terms, and other factors before deciding on approval.

While Starlink’s services may not match the existing fifth-generation (5G) and LTE mobile wireless internet provided by traditional carriers in quality, industry experts said they would have a competitive edge in areas with a lack of access to reliable wired Internet and Wi-Fi, such as at sea and in mountainous regions.