(2 January 2008 1:00 pm)

MUMBAI: The South Korean Assembly has passed a law allowing for the launch of Internet Protocol TV (IPTV).

The legislation creates a regulatory framework for the new technology, which is projected to change the face of Korea’s broadcasting sector.

Media reports state that KT Corp, Hanaro Telecom and LG Dacom have offered pre-IPTV services centred around video on demand via their Mega TV, Hana TV and My LG TV services, respectively. These services currently offer TV programmes for a number of hours or days once the global broadcasters have aired them.

However, the passing of the latest bill will enable live broadcasting and streaming Internet plus interactive services like e-commerce, multimedia messaging, video conferencing and more.

The major worry for the TV stations is that the IPTV could spoil their monopoly over content, sales and advertising.

Set-top box manufacturers like Celrun and Humax and content providers like soap opera producer Olive Nine Co will benefit from the new law.