SK Telink has launched the domestic commercial service for the global low Earth orbit satellite communication service 'Starlink.'
Since the cross-border supply agreement with SpaceX was approved on May 30, SK Telink, the official reseller of Starlink Korea, aims to transition the domestic satellite communication market to a low Earth orbit satellite basis and grow as 'a leader in the high-speed satellite communication market.' After signing the reseller contract with Starlink in 2023, it has completed system integration and enhanced its sales, technical support, and customer management capabilities.
Starlink provides high-speed, low-latency satellite internet worldwide using thousands of satellites orbiting the Earth at low altitudes. It achieves a latency level that is one-tenth that of conventional geostationary satellites, with data speeds of over 250 Mbps, ensuring reliable and fast communication quality even for mobile units such as ships and aircraft, as well as in geographically constrained areas. Additionally, it can maintain communication services even in environments where terrestrial networks are problematic, such as during fires, landslides, earthquakes, and wars.
SK Telink plans to provide low Earth orbit satellite communication application cases and customized introduction programs to customers in both the private and public sectors, in addition to existing demand from maritime and aviation. The product lineup will be expanded sequentially, including marine and aviation dedicated packages, plans exclusively for public institutions, and combinations of fixed and mobile terminals.
In addition, utilizing the advanced ICT technology of SK Group, it plans to offer intelligent satellite communication services, including AI-based information analysis, CCTV safety management, and security solutions combined with quantum encryption technology. In areas where it is difficult to establish communication infrastructure, such as remote islands and mountainous regions, it will also actively promote disaster response communication network establishment projects in collaboration with public institutions and local governments. This aims to contribute to the stability of communication networks and the enhancement of disaster safety infrastructure.
Lee Shin-yong, head of the satellite business division at SK Telink, stated, "Low Earth orbit satellite communication is a game changer that will elevate the domestic communication infrastructure system beyond simple internet service," and remarked, "Starting with the commercialization of Starlink, we will become a key player leading the low Earth orbit satellite communication market in high-value markets, including maritime, aviation, plant, public, and disaster safety sectors."
Currently, SK Telink has established an integrated support system covering the supply, installation, operations training, and maintenance of Starlink dedicated terminals. Based on its nationwide sales network and technical support personnel, it provides customized satellite communication solutions. Customers can easily check service information such as usage and line status on a web-based portal, and a 24-hour consultation channel is also operational.