The average cost of cellular phone handsets in Korea took the first place in the world in 2013, equivalent to US$230.56. (image: Kobizmedia/Korea Bizwire)
SEOUL, Oct. 14 (Korea Bizwire) — The cost of mobile devices in South Korea is most expensive, ranking No. 1 among OECD countries.
Congressman Mun Byeong-ho said that, based on data submitted by the Ministry of Science, ICT and Future Planning, the average cost of cellular phone handsets in Korea took the first place in the world in 2013, equivalent to US$230.56, up from No. 2 ($235.91) in 2012 and the same rank ($246.40) in 2011.
Japan was at the No. 1 position from 2011 to 2012, but handed over its place to South Korea in 2013. The U.S. has sold handsets at lower prices, amounting to $107.55 in 2013, ranking No. 18, followed by 15th ($109.94) in 2012 and 21st ($108.94) in 2011.
In terms of high-end models, South Koreans have paid $512.24 on average per unit, more expensive than any other country. They had to pay $492.99 in 2012 (No. 3) and $410.98 in 2011 (No. 3). Japanese consumers have paid only $359.90 for a high-end handset while citizens from the U.S. followed Koreans, paying $512.24.
“Considering the fact that Korea’s per-capita gross national income in 2012 ranked No. 25 among 34 OECD nations, it is absurd that the cost of handsets in Korea is most costly,” the congressman said. “It means that the cost has been padded and device providers have made undue profits,” he added.
By Veronica Huh (veronicah@koreabizwire.com)
