No-subsidy phones may get discount

Starting next month, mobile carriers may give a 10 percent discount on monthly plans to subscribers who did not receive subsidies on their devices.

The Ministry of Science, ICT and Future Planning said yesterday it is reviewing whether to introduce the discount for monthly plans when the revised mobile device distribution law takes effect next month.

When the new discount on monthly plans is introduced, more people will likely use mid- to low-end smartphones that are not retailed through local carriers.

The nation’s mobile carriers already give discounts of nearly 20 percent on two-year service plans to all subscribers. A 69,000 won ($66) monthly plan on a two-year contract, for instance, will be reduced by 17,500 won.

“The discount that consumers will receive will be similar to the amount of subsidies provided to those who purchase new phones at mobile carriers,” said a spokesman for a mobile carrier.

The Korea Communications Commission will decide on a subsidy ceiling of between 250,000 won and 350,000 won, and the ceiling will be adjusted every six months starting next month.

By kim jung-yoon[kjy@joongang.co.kr]