Will mobile virtual network operators succeed in Korea?

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to analyze how the mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) market in Korea will evolve, the opportunities and/or threats of network operators and how the MVNO market will be forged in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

This study provides competitive analysis, market evaluation and current regulatory assessment of the Korean MVNO marketplace.

Findings

While there are many positive prospects of MVNO in Korea, a series of complicated techno‐economic issues arise.

Practical implications

The current development of MVNO sheds light on the growing challenges of the dynamics of industry, regulation and technology.

Social implications

While MVNOs continue to flourish in some markets, their diffusion in other regions is often very limited and continues to drastically decrease.

Originality/value

The results suggest a sustainable ecosystem of MVNO and propose an appropriate policy to promote MVNO diffusion.

Citation

Shin, D. and Chung, S. (2012), "Will mobile virtual network operators succeed in Korea?", info, Vol. 14 No. 3, pp. 48-67. https://doi.org/10.1108/14636691211223229