South Korea's National Radio Research Agency (RRA) has launched a public consultation on a proposed amendment to the KS X 3270 standard, which governs conduction test methods for 5G NR (New Radio) wireless communication equipment. This amendment is part of the national policy to reallocate LTE frequencies, enabling the use of 5G technology in existing LTE bands and updating technical requirements accordingly.

Key changes include the addition of FDD mode and carrier aggregation test elements to the standard, allowing for comprehensive testing of 5G NR equipment operating in LTE bands. The amendment also integrates common elements from KS X 3123, reorganizing them into an independent and standardized framework within KS X 3270. Procedures are further harmonized with 3GPP technical specifications, and test processes for SISO and MIMO equipment are simplified where output classes are equivalent.

The draft outlines detailed procedures for measuring RF parameters such as occupied bandwidth, antenna feed power, adjacent channel leakage, and out-of-band emissions. It also specifies environmental and voltage conditions for testing, as well as requirements for multi-antenna (MIMO) configurations and carrier aggregation scenarios.

Stakeholders—including manufacturers, test labs, certification bodies, and mobile operators—are invited to submit written opinions by March 31, 2026. The consultation aims to ensure that all relevant parties are prepared for the anticipated implementation of the revised standard, which will align national requirements with international best practices and support the ongoing evolution of Korea's telecommunications sector.

This amendment is assessed as High Impact.

Key reasons for high impact:

• The amendment introduces new mandatory test requirements for 5G NR equipment, including FDD mode and carrier aggregation in LTE bands.
• It reorganizes and integrates technical standards, affecting conformity assessment procedures for a wide range of wireless devices.
• The changes will require manufacturers, test labs, and certification bodies to update their processes, documentation, and technical capabilities.

Who is affected?

Manufacturers of 5G NR equipment, test laboratories, certification bodies, mobile network operators, and technology suppliers operating in or exporting to South Korea.

Conclusion:

The proposed changes will have a significant effect on the approval and testing of 5G NR wireless equipment, necessitating early preparation and adaptation by all stakeholders.