KT has become the third operator to launch LTE services in South Korea. Initially available in Seoul, the service will be expanded to cover around 90 percent of the population by April. The service uses the 1800MHz band, where KT recently shut down GSM services in order to launch 4G. The network is based on a system of small cells and 'virtual' base stations called LTE Warp, which the operator said improves efficicent and reliability. KT is offering a range of smartphones and tablets for customers to start using the service, including LTE versions of the Samsung Galaxy Note and Galaxy S II, as well as the Galaxy Tab. It's also boosting video and music content in order to show off the faster data service to customers. Price plans for the LTE service start at KRS 34,000 for 500MB per month. KT's rivals SK and LG Uplus launched LTE services last year, and both have accelerated their roll-outs due to strong demand. KT's launch was delayed by the need to secure regulatory approval for refarming its spectrum and ending the 2G services.
