IPTV between Competition and Regulation in Korea

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

Technological convergence in the fields of telecommunications and broadcasting needs regulatory convergence, which requires as its prerequisite overarching regulatory principles between different regulatory authorities. The integration of separate regulatory regimes for telecommunications, broadcasting and IPTV entails a complicated process of balancing between market principle and public interest.


In this context, the current regulatory framework of IPTV seems to be far away from such a balanced perspective in that the new hybrid service is regulated much stricter than traditional telecommunications or broadcasting services. Key issues concerning access to premium network and killer contents have just begun.


In order to set up sound competition policy concerning IPTV, the KCC as a relevant sectoral regulator, should focus its interest and resources on the establishment of level playing field between telecommunications and broadcasting companies regardless of technologies or networks.
It is the very reason why intermodal competition should be given priority practicing sectoral competition policy.

참고문헌 (Reference)

1 William E. Kennard, "what we need to remember now is that no one could have predicted these innovations. We cannot regulate against problems that have not yet to materialize in a market that has to develop"

2 Hee-Soo Kim, "Unified Protection of User of Convergent Services" KISDI 76-, 2009

3 Won-Woo Lee, "Problems and Suggestions of Regulatory System with Regard to Convergence in Korea" Studies on Communications Law IV 220-, 2008

4 Yong-Seop Yum, "Policy Review of the IP-TV in the Digital Convergence" 1 (1): 72-74, 2008

5 Bong-Eui Lee, "On the Reform of Retail Regulations in Telecommunications Act" 1 (1): 19-, 2008

6 Sang-Shik Lee, "Major Issues in Pay-TV Markets regarding Legislation to Integrate the Broadcasting and Telecommunications Related Acts" 2 (2): 2009

7 Kuhn Hwang, "Law and Regulatory Policy Implementation for Revitalization of IP-TV" 1 (1): 95-, 2008

8 Bong-Eui Lee, "Competition Issues and Policy Implications after IPTV" 2010

9 Bong-Eui Lee, "Application of Competition Law in Telecommunications Industry" 58 : 2004