Tech News By
Deji Osas
Pre-orders for Apple’s highly anticipated iPhone 17 series officially opened at 9 p.m. on the 12th, with telecommunications giants in South Korea rolling out competitive incentives to lure customers. The devices are set for release on the 19th, sparking a fierce battle among carriers to secure subscribers.
This launch marks the first iPhone release since the repeal of the “Mobile Device Distribution Act” (단통법), and industry watchers predict heightened competition as customers weigh switching carriers. Unlike Samsung, which unveils multiple models throughout the year, Apple’s once-a-year product drop often drives significant subscriber migration.
SK Telecom is enticing customers with a free three-month subscription to iCloud+ (200GB, valued at 4,400 won per month) for pre-order buyers. It also launched the “T Immediate Compensation” program, offering up to 70% of the device’s original value back in benefits after two years, plus same-day delivery through its T Direct Shop for orders placed by the 15th.
KT, despite recently facing backlash over unauthorized micro-payment fraud, unveiled an “Early Compensation Program.” Customers can immediately claim 50% of the phone’s launch price in value upon activation. Additional perks include storage upgrades for the first 1,000 pre-orders of the iPhone Air and guaranteed delivery on launch day. However, the company is cautious with aggressive marketing as it works to rebuild customer trust.
LG U+ has rolled out a “70% Compensation Pass,” enabling customers to return their iPhone after 24 months for up to 70% of its value in points. Early pre-orders via U+’s online mall also come with morning delivery and free storage upgrades for the first 1,500 iPhone Air buyers.
The new lineup is priced at ₩1,290,000 for the iPhone 17, ₩1,590,000 for the iPhone Air, ₩1,790,000 for the iPhone Pro, and ₩1,990,000 for the iPhone Pro Max. Analysts predict that SK Telecom will push hard to regain ground after a hacking scandal earlier this year, while LG U+ looks to strengthen gains made during that period. KT, meanwhile, is treading carefully to retain subscribers after its recent security mishap.
With competition heating up, Korean iPhone enthusiasts can expect a wave of deals, discounts, and bonuses leading up to the device’s release next week.
