South Korean operator KT has selected Nokia Siemens Networks as one of its LTE mobile broadband infrastructure and services vendors. The operator plans to meet the fast growing demand for mobile broadband and smartphone data services by re-farming its 1.8GHz band. This will allow KT to offer its subscribers a superior, 4G, mobile broadband experience by mid 2012.

"Re-use of spectrum has become all the more vital due to its limited availability and the increasing use of smartphones and rich applications. Spectrum re-farming is emerging as a viable option for operators looking to better allocate existing spectrum cost efficiently and provide next-generation LTE services that offer a better customer experience", said .Paul Tyler, head of Asia Pacific region at Nokia Siemens Networks.

Nokia Siemens Networks is providing its 1.8GHz LTE radio equipment including its Flexi Multiradio Base Stations. The company is also providing services including network integration and commissioning. Nokia Siemens Networks’ NetAct operations support system will enable effective monitoring, management and optimization of KT’s LTE network.