SK Telecom debuts USIM reset tech without chip swap

An SK Telecom retail store in Seoul (Newsis)

Korea’s top mobile carrier SK Telecom said Sunday it is introducing the new USIM reset solution that allows users to update specific USIM authentication data without physically replacing the chip.

The technology alters part of the user identification and authentication information stored on the chip, leaving other user-saved data, such as mobile contact lists, prepaid transportation cards like T-money and mobile certificates, untouched.

Unlike traditional USIM swaps, it eliminates the need to reconfigure financial authentication certificates. Available to both USIM and eSIM users, the reset process simplifies security management while minimizing user inconvenience.

The service will be available at SK Telecom’s T World stores for customers who receive a notification message regarding a USIM replacement. Starting Monday, the company will increase scheduling notifications for users who have prebooked a USIM chip replacement, as inventory supplies improve.

SK Telecom also said that for customers who wish to switch to a physical USIM chip following a reset, the company will offer one free exchange at any T World store nationwide.

Meanwhile, SK Group is taking steps to overhaul its cybersecurity infrastructure, with plans to launch a new in-house committee.

The group reportedly discussed the direction and structure of the upcoming committee during a recent meeting of its strategy and globalization committee, chaired by Chey Chang-won, the head of the group's highest decision-making body, SK Supex Council.

The move follows Chairman Chey Tae-won’s public apology at Wednesday's press conference, in which he vowed to “conduct a full-scale review of security systems across all SK affiliates and expand investment in cybersecurity infrastructure.”

During the conference, he also pledged to form a committee involving external experts “to ensure an objective and neutral approach to system improvement.”

The committee will be formed under the guidance of the Supex Council and is expected to consist of internal and external experts. The council is composed of top executives from SK’s major affiliates and oversees group-wide strategic and operational plans.

Currently, the Supex Council operates eight subcommittees, including those focused on strategy and globalization, environmental business, ICT, talent development, communication, social value, governance and semiconductors.