South Korean LTE Spectrum Auction Gets Under Way

South Korea’s radio spectrum auction has started with all three incumbent mobile networks participating.

The regulator is offering up 80 MHz of spectrum in the 2.6 GHz band and 50 MHz in the 1800 MHz band

The lower frequency is expected to be more heavily fought over, in part to due to the less amount available, but also due to the increased availability of LTE handsets in that band.

Korea Telecom is hoping to do well out of the bidding for the 1800 MHz spectrum, but has expressed concerns that its two rivals may collaborate to block its bids by driving up the price.

However, both SK Telecom and LG U+ have previously argued for a ban on Korea Telecom being allowed to bid due to its existing holdings, which it acquired in 2010.