Gov't to require telephone monopoly to free up its facilities

SEOUL, April 26 (Yonhap) -- The South Korean government and the ruling party are pushing to require fixed-line telephone and internet monopoly KT Corp. to loosen its grip on its communication-service networks and other facilities to encourage the entry of start-ups and spur competition, a party official said Sunday.

The source, who declined to be identified, said the ruling Grand National Party
(GNP) has drafted a revised bill to require the telecommunication firm to provide
facilities like telegraphic networks and poles for public use. The bill will be
submitted to the National Assembly for review within the month.
"Public sharing of the infrastructure is expected to encourage local firms to tap
into overseas markets and enhance the development of the communication sector by
spurring competition," the GNP official said.
KT has been opposed to any action to free up the use of its facilities, citing
the right to corporate property. Currently, KT provides its facilities for use
upon business agreement.