South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) has extended its facial recognition SIM registration pilot programme for mobile identity verification until the end of June 2026. The decision follows a review of feedback from mobile operators and industry bodies.
The MSIT stated it aims to minimise user disruption and ensure a smooth implementation. Stakeholders who commented on the trial included SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus, as well as the Budget Mobile Phone Association and the Mobile Telecommunications Distribution Association.
Why Stakeholders Requested the Extension
Industry participants requested an extension of at least three months. They cited the need to clearly define work procedures, prevent on-site confusion, and publish field response guides covering various operational variables.
Stakeholders also requested that the programme determine alternative verification methods. Furthermore, they called for sufficient on-site guidance for elderly, disabled, and digitally vulnerable users.
Alternative Verification Methods Under Review
The MSIT is currently reviewing several alternatives to facial recognition verification. These include PIN authentication within the mobile ID app provided by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, human verification via video calls, fingerprint scans, iris scans, and bank account proof.
How the Pilot Operates
The facial recognition SIM pilot launched in late December 2025. The three major mobile operators — SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus — use facial recognition in their face-to-face service channels. Meanwhile, budget handset companies apply the technology at non-visual channels.
“The ministry aims to minimise user disruption and ensure a smooth implementation after reviewing industry feedback.”
Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), South Korea
Context and Outlook
The extension reflects broader challenges in deploying artificial intelligence-based identity systems at scale. Regulators worldwide face similar pressure to balance security, accessibility, and user experience when rolling out biometric verification for mobile services.
The MSIT has not yet confirmed a final implementation timeline beyond June 2026. The ministry is expected to publish updated field guidance and finalise alternative verification procedures before the extended pilot concludes.