KT to trial IPTV in Russia before Korean launch

July 31, 2007 – Korea Telecom (KT) is to trial and launch an IPTV service in Russia before doing so in its native Korea, according to latest reports from local daily the Chosun Ilbo.

During a news conference in Vladivostok held last Sunday, the President of KT, Nam Joong-soo said: “Trial service will begin in August in Russia’s Maritime Province ahead of a full launch next year.”  The service is to be launched through its affiliate NTC, which will hold an 80% stake in the service in the province.

NTC has reportedly secured 30 Russian broadcast channels, and intends to air real-time broadcasts over the Internet, as well as offering films, TV programs and sport via video on demand.

Nam also stated that: “We received overseas offers to launch IPTV services which we delayed in order to launch it first in Korea, but we couldn’t wait any longer.”  There is legislation relating to IPTV deployment which is currently pending approval in Korea’s National Assembly, and must be passed before the service can begin.

“Korea must also swiftly institutionalise IPTV for consumer choice of media outlets and to boost the industry as the country has the world’s best communications infrastructure,” Nam added.