20-F 1 d20f.htm FORM 20-F Form 20-F
Table of Contents

As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 27, 2007


UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549


FORM 20-F


(Mark One)

¨ REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006

OR

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

¨ SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Date of event requiring this shell company report                     

For the transition period from                      to                     

Commission file number 1-14926


KT Corporation

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)


The Republic of Korea

(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

206 Jungja-dong

Bundang-ku, Sungnam

Gyunggi-do

463-711 Korea

(Address of principal executive offices)


Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act.

Title of Each Class


 

Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered


American Depositary Shares, each
representing one-half of one share
of Common Stock
  New York Stock Exchange
Common Stock, par value
Won 5,000 per share
  New York Stock Exchange*

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act.

None

(Title of Class)

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act.

None

(Title of Class)


Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.

208,095,178 shares of Common Stock, par value Won 5,000 per share

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes    x  No    ¨

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Yes    ¨  No    x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes    x  No    ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer    x Accelerated filer    ¨  Non-accelerated filer    ¨

Indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow. Item 17    ¨  Item 18    x

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes    ¨  No    x

(APPLICABLE ONLY TO ISSUERS INVOLVED IN BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDINGS DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed all documents and reports required to be filed by Sections 12, 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 subsequent to the distribution of securities under a plan confirmed by a court. Yes    ¨  No    ¨

* Not for trading, but only in connection with the registration of the American Depositary Shares.

 



Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

PART I

   1

ITEM 1.

  

IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGERS AND ADVISORS

   1
    

Item 1.A.

  

Directors and Senior Management

   1
    

Item 1.B.

  

Advisers

   1
    

Item 1.C.

  

Auditors

   1

ITEM 2.

  

OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE

   1

ITEM 3.

  

KEY INFORMATION

   1
    

Item 3.A.

  

Selected Financial Data

   1
    

Item 3.B.

  

Capitalization and Indebtedness

   5
    

Item 3.C.

  

Reasons for Offer and Use of Proceeds

   5
    

Item 3.D.

  

Risk Factors

   5

ITEM 4.

  

INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

   13
    

Item 4.A.

  

History and Development of the Company

   13
    

Item 4.B.

  

Business Overview

   14
    

Item 4.C.

  

Organizational Structure

   36
    

Item 4.D.

  

Property, Plants and Equipment

   36

ITEM 4A.

  

UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

   38

ITEM 5.

  

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

   38
    

Item 5.A.

  

Operating Results

   38
    

Item 5.B.

  

Liquidity and Capital Resources

   53
    

Item 5.C.

  

Research and Development, Patents and Licenses

   58
    

Item 5.D.

  

Trend Information

   59
    

Item 5.E.

  

Off-balance Sheet Arrangements

   59
    

Item 5.F.

  

Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations

   59
    

Item 5.G.

  

Safe Harbor

   59

ITEM 6.

  

DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

   60
    

Item 6.A.

  

Directors And Senior Management

   60
    

Item 6.B.

  

Compensation

   64
    

Item 6.C.

  

Board Practices

   64
    

Item 6.D.

  

Employees

   67
    

Item 6.E.

  

Share Ownership

   68

ITEM 7.

  

MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

   69
    

Item 7.A.

  

Major Shareholders

   69
    

Item 7.B.

  

Related Party Transactions

   69
    

Item 7.C.

  

Interests of Experts and Counsel

   69

ITEM 8.

  

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

   70
    

Item 8.A.

  

Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

   70
    

Item 8.B.

  

Significant Changes

   71

 

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Table of Contents

ITEM 9.

  

THE OFFER AND LISTING

   72
    

Item 9.A.

  

Offer and Listing Details

   72
    

Item 9.B.

  

Plan of Distribution

   73
    

Item 9.C.

  

Markets

   73
    

Item 9.D.

  

Selling Shareholders

   78
    

Item 9.E.

  

Dilution

   78
    

Item 9.F.

  

Expenses of the Issuer

   78

ITEM 10.

  

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

   78
    

Item 10.A.

  

Share Capital

   78
    

Item 10.B.

  

Memorandum and Articles of Association

   78
    

Item 10.C.

  

Material Contracts

   84
    

Item 10.D.

  

Exchange Controls

   84
    

Item 10.E.

  

Taxation

   87
    

Item 10.F.

  

Dividends and Paying Agents

   91
    

Item 10.G.

  

Statements by Experts

   92
    

Item 10.H.

  

Documents on Display

   92
    

Item 10.I.

  

Subsidiary Information

   92

ITEM 11.

  

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

   92

ITEM 12.

  

DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

   94

PART II

   95

ITEM 13.

  

DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

   95

ITEM 14.

  

MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS

   95

ITEM 15.

  

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

   95

ITEM 16.

  

[RESERVED]

   96

ITEM 16A.

  

AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

   96

ITEM 16B.

  

CODE OF ETHICS

   96

ITEM 16C.

  

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

   96

ITEM 16D.

  

EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES

   96

ITEM 16E.

  

PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

   97

PART III

   98

ITEM 17.

  

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   98

ITEM 18.

  

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   98

ITEM 19.

  

EXHIBITS

   98

 

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GLOSSARY

 

All references to “Korea” or the “Republic” contained in this annual report mean the Republic of Korea. All references to the “Government” mean the government of the Republic of Korea. All references to “we,” “us” or the “Company” mean KT Corporation and, as the context may require, its subsidiaries.

 

Any discrepancies in any table between totals and the sums of the amounts listed are due to rounding.

 

All references to “Won” or “(Won)” in this annual report are to the currency of the Republic and all references to “Dollars,” “$,” “US$” or “U.S. dollars” are to the currency of the United States of America.

 

Unless otherwise indicated, translations of Won amounts into Dollars in this annual report were made at the noon buying rate in The City of New York for cable transfers in Won per US$1.00 as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Unless otherwise stated, the translations of Won into Dollars were made at the noon buying rate in effect on December 29, 2006, which was Won 930.00 to US$1.00.

 

PART I

 

Item 1. Identity of Directors, Senior Managers and Advisors

 

Item 1.A. Directors and Senior Management

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 1.B. Advisers

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 1.C. Auditors

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 2. Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 3. Key Information

 

Item 3.A. Selected Financial Data

 

You should read the selected consolidated financial data below in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2006, and the report of independent registered public accounting firm on these statements included herein. The selected consolidated financial data for the five years ended December 31, 2006 are derived from our audited consolidated financial statements.

 

Our Consolidated Financial Statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in Korea (“Korean GAAP”), which differ in certain significant respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). See Note 35 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of the nature and the effect of such differences.

 

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Income Statement Data

 

     Year Ended December 31,

     2002

   2003

   2004

    2005

   2006

   2006

     (In billions of Won and millions of Dollars, except per share data)

Korean GAAP(1):

                                          

Operating revenues

   (Won) 16,437    (Won) 16,068    (Won) 17,068     (Won) 17,156    (Won) 17,756    US$  19,093

Operating expenses

     14,056      14,245      14,588       14,725      15,377      16,534

Operating income

     2,382      1,822      2,481       2,431      2,379      2,558

Donations and contribution
payments
(2)

     145      182      147       140      151      163

Gain (loss) on disposition of available-for-sale securities(3)

     1,177      772      (15 )     70      78      84

Income taxes(4)(5)

     741      524      578       387      490      527

Net earnings

     1,947      822      1,282       1,085      1,292      1,389

Basic earnings per share(6)

     7,504      3,802      6,084       5,131      6,155      6.62

Diluted earnings per share(7)

     6,601      3,313      5,697       5,125      6,148      6.61

Dividends per share(8)

     860      2,000      3,000       3,000      2,000      2.15

U.S. GAAP(9):

                                          

Operating revenues

   (Won) 11,508    (Won) 11,776    (Won) 12,240     (Won) 12,328    (Won) 14,088    US$ 15,148

Operating income

     1,860      1,167      1,944       1,539      1,865      2,006

Income taxes

     520      218      387       356      357      384

Net earnings

     1,556      395      1,405       1,149      1,329      1,429

Basic earnings per share(6)

     5,997      1,830      6,663       5,428      6,333      6.80

Diluted earnings per share(7)

     4,972      1,653      6,215       5,423      6,327      6.80

 

Balance Sheet Data

 

     Year Ended December 31,

     2002

   2003

    2004

    2005

   2006

   2006

     (In billions of Won and millions of Dollars)

Korean GAAP(1):

                                           

Working capital(10)

   (Won) 499    (Won) (1,184 )   (Won) (1,526 )   (Won) 1,309    (Won) 558    US$ 600

Net property, plants and equipment

     16,853      16,374       15,721       15,087      15,169      16,311

Total assets

     29,050      25,557       26,473       24,678      24,222      26,045

Long-term debt, excluding current portion

     9,877      9,050       6,985       7,360      6,097      6,556

Refundable deposits for telephone installation

     1,534      1,227       1,087       958      907      975

Total stockholders’ equity

     9,833      8,397       9,026       10,390      10,697      11,503

U.S. GAAP(9):

                                           

Working capital(10)

   (Won) 678    (Won) (99 )   (Won) (763 )   (Won) 334    (Won) 333    US$ 358

Net property, plants and equipment

     11,995      11,515       10,846       10,677      14,730      15,839

Total assets

     21,737      19,532       20,384       18,383      24,098      25,912

Total stockholders’ equity

     7,270      5,890       6,660       7,345      8,038      8,643

 

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Operating Data

 

     As of December 31,

     2002

   2003

   2004

   2005

   2006

     (Unaudited)

Lines installed (thousands)(11)

   25,104    25,202    25,577    26,190    26,838

Lines in service (thousands)(11)

   22,327    21,841    21,091    20,837    20,331

Lines in service per 100 inhabitants(12)

   46.8    45.6    43.8    43.1    42.0

PCS subscribers (thousands)(13)

   10,333    10,442    11,729    12,302    12,914

Broadband Internet subscribers (thousands)

   4,922    5,589    6,078    6,242    6,353

 

Other Financial Data

 

     Year Ended December 31,

 
     2002

    2003

    2004

    2005

    2006

    2006

 
     (In billions of Won and millions of Dollars)  

Korean GAAP:

                                                

Net cash provided by operating activities

   (Won) 4,827     (Won) 3,190     (Won) 4,719     (Won) 5,986     (Won) 5,764     US$ 6,198  

Net cash used in investing activities

     (4,065 )     (1,481 )     (3,618 )     (2,523 )     (3,062 )     (3,292 )

Net cash used in financing activities

     (844 )     (2,065 )     (106 )     (3,725 )     (2,417 )     (2,599 )

U.S. GAAP(9):

                                                

Net cash provided by operating activities

   (Won) 2,973     (Won) 2,174     (Won) 3,613     (Won) 3,588     (Won) 4,667     US$ 5,018  

Net cash used in investing activities

     (2,639 )     (1,654 )     (2,607 )     (735 )     (2,432 )     (2,615 )

Net cash used in financing activities

     (254 )     (691 )     (19 )     (3,362 )     (1,671 )     (1,796 )

(1) Effective January 1, 2003, we adopted Statements of Korea Accounting Standards (“SKAS”) No. 2 through No. 9. In accordance with these standards, the cumulative effects on prior years were adjusted to the beginning balance of retained earnings. In addition, certain accounts of the prior year consolidated financial statements were reclassified to conform to the current year’s presentation. Effective January 1, 2005, we adopted SKAS No. 15 “Investment in Associates,” No. 16 “Income Taxes” and No. 17 “Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets”. As allowed by these standards, balances prior to 2005 were not reclassified to conform to the 2005 and 2006 presentation. See Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(2) Includes donations and contributions to the Government’s Information and Telecommunication Improvement Fund, the Korea Electronic Telecommunication Research Institute and other institutes supporting science and technology research. See Note 33 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(3) Includes a gain of Won 1,154 billion in 2002 as a result of our disposition of 5,457,635 shares of SK Telecom and a gain of Won 776 billion in 2003 as a result of our disposition of 3,809,288 shares of SK Telecom.
(4) Includes impairment of deferred tax asset of Won 134 billion in 2003, Won 174 billion in 2004, Won 57 billion in 2005 and Won 26 billion in 2006 due to our conclusion that we would not be able to realize the tax benefit of our equity in losses of affiliates within the near future. See Note 26 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(5) With the adoption of the Application of Korea Accounting Standard 06-2 “Deferred Tax Accounting for Investments in Subsidiaries, Affiliated Companies Accounted for Using the Equity Method, and Interest in Joint Ventures,” the amounts have been restated as required by this standard. See Note 29 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(6) Basic earnings per share under Korean GAAP and U.S. GAAP is calculated by dividing net earnings by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period. The weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period was 259,450 thousand for 2002, 216,106 thousand for 2003, 210,759 thousand for 2004, 211,565 thousand for 2005 and 209,895 thousand for 2006.

 

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(7) Diluted earnings per share are calculated based on the effect of dilutive securities that were outstanding during the period. The denominator of the diluted earnings per share computation is adjusted to include the number of additional common shares that would have been outstanding if the dilutive securities had been converted into common stock. In addition, the numerator is adjusted to include the after-tax amount of interest recognized associated with convertible notes. The weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding was 300,097 thousand for 2002, 263,556 thousand for 2003, 233,270 thousand for 2004, 211,822 thousand for 2005 and 210,150 thousand for 2006. (Under U.S. GAAP, 300,097 thousand for 2002, 241,291 thousand for 2003, 233,270 thousand for 2004, 211,822 thousand for 2005 and 210,150 thousand for 2006.)
(8) Dividends paid on a per share basis for shares owned by the Government differ from dividends paid on a per share basis to all the other shareholders. The Government completed the disposition of its ownership interest in us in May 2002. The calculation of dividends per share represents the weighted average dividends paid per share.
(9) See Note 35 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for reconciliation to U.S. GAAP.
(10) “Working capital” means current assets minus current liabilities.
(11) Including public telephones.
(12) Excluding public telephones.
(13) Includes subscribers of KTF and resale subscribers of KT Corporation. As of December 31, 2002, KTF had approximately 8.9 million subscribers and KT Corporation had approximately 1.4 million resale subscribers. As of December 31, 2003, KTF had approximately 8.9 million subscribers and KT Corporation had approximately 1.6 million resale subscribers. As of December 31, 2004, KTF had approximately 9.5 million subscribers and KT Corporation had approximately 2.2 million resale subscribers. As of December 31, 2005, KTF had approximately 9.8 million subscribers and KT Corporation had approximately 2.5 million resale subscribers. As of December 31, 2006, KTF had approximately 10.2 million subscribers and KT Corporation had approximately 2.7 million resale subscribers.

 

Exchange Rate Information

 

The following table sets out information concerning the noon buying rate for the periods and dates indicated.

 

Period


  

At End
of

Period


   Average
Rate(1)


   High

   Low

     (Won per US$1.00)

2002

   1,186.3    1,242.0    1,332.0    1,160.6

2003

   1,192.0    1,183.0    1,262.0    1,146.0

2004

   1,035.1    1,139.3    1,195.1    1,035.1

2005

   1,010.0    1,023.2    1,059.8    997.0

2006

   930.0    950.1    1,002.9    913.7

2007 (through June 26)

   926.1    934.8    949.1    922.3

January

   941.0    936.8    942.2    925.4

February

   942.3    936.9    942.3    932.5

March

   941.1    942.9    949.1    937.2

April

   931.0    930.7    937.0    926.1

May

   927.4    927.6    934.0    922.3

June (through June 26)

   926.1    928.3    932.3    926.1

Source: Federal Reserve Bank of New York.
(1) The average rate for each full year is calculated as the average of the noon buying rates on the last business day of each month during the relevant year. The average rate for a full month is calculated as the average of the noon buying rates on each business day during the relevant month (or portion thereof).

 

Our consolidated financial statements are expressed in Won and, solely for the convenience of the reader, the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2006 have been translated into

 

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United States dollars at the rate of Won 930.0 to US$1.00, the noon buying rate in the City of New York for cable transfers in Won as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York at December 29, 2006, the last day in 2006 for which such rate is available. We make no representation that the Won or Dollar amounts contained in this annual report could have been or could be converted into Dollar or Won, as the case may be, at any particular rate or at all.

 

Item 3.B. Capitalization and Indebtedness

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 3.C. Reasons for Offer and Use of Proceeds

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 3.D. Risk Factors

 

You should carefully consider the following factors.

 

Risks Relating to Our Company

 

Increased competition in Korea has had and may continue to have an adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

 

The telecommunications sector in Korea is rapidly evolving. We face increasing competition from new entrants to the telecommunications market. We expect the number and the identity of service providers in the market to continue to change. Future business combinations and alliances in the telecommunications industry may create significant new competitors. In addition, advances in technology as well as changes in the regulatory environment are also occurring. Any significant changes in the competitive landscape of the telecommunications sector and our inability to adapt to such changes could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Fixed-line Telephone Services. Before December 1991, we were the sole provider of local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance telephone services in Korea. Since then, various competitors have entered the local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance telephone service markets in Korea, which have eroded our market shares. LG DACOM Corporation (formerly DACOM Corporation) and Hanaro Telecom, Inc. currently provide local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance telephone services. In addition, Onse Telecom Corp. and SK Telink, Inc. currently provide domestic long-distance and international long-distance telephone services. Starting in 1998, specific service providers, such as Internet phone service providers, voice resellers and call-back service providers, also began offering international long-distance service in Korea. The entry of these and other potential competitors into the local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance telephone service markets has had and may continue to have a material adverse effect on our revenues and profitability from these businesses. We had a market share in local telephone service of 92.1% as of December 31, 2006 in terms of number of subscribers estimated by us and a market share in domestic long-distance service of 85.6% in 2006 in terms of revenues estimated by us. We cannot give assurance that we will be able to maintain our share of these businesses at or above current levels.

 

In recent years, the Ministry of Information and Communication implemented local number portability allowing local fixed-line telephone service subscribers to choose a competing local telephone service provider while retaining the same phone number. The gradual implementation of local number portability began in March 2003 and was completed in August 2004. As of December 31, 2006, approximately 352 thousand of our subscribers switched to our competitors and approximately 187 thousand subscribers of our competitors switched to us. Local number portability may enable Hanaro and LG DACOM to compete more effectively for our existing customers and may have a material adverse effect on our number of subscribers and on our results of operations.

 

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PCS Service. KTF, our consolidated subsidiary in which we owned a 52.2% interest as of December 31, 2006, provides PCS service, a type of mobile telecommunications service based on Code Division Multiple Access (“CDMA”) technology. Competitors in the mobile telecommunications service industry are cellular service provider SK Telecom and PCS service provider LG Telecom. KTF (including resale subscribers of KT Corporation) had a market share of 32.1% as of December 31, 2006 in terms of the number of mobile service subscribers in Korea announced by the Ministry of Information and Communication, making KTF the second largest service provider. SK Telecom had a market share of 50.4% as of December 31, 2006.

 

Starting in January 2004 for SK Telecom subscribers, July 2004 for KTF subscribers and January 2005 for LG Telecom subscribers, mobile subscribers have been allowed to switch their service provider while retaining the same mobile phone number. In addition, all new subscribers of mobile services and existing subscribers who elect to receive a new mobile number, as well as those switching to a third-generation mobile service, are given the uniform mobile code of “010” as the first three digits of their mobile numbers without regard to the mobile service provider. The Ministry of Information and Communication has announced that it will implement the uniform mobile code to all mobile numbers once the total number of subscribers using the uniform mobile code reaches 80% to 90% of the total mobile subscribers in Korea. In addition, starting on March 27, 2006, the Ministry of Information and Communication has allowed mobile service providers to grant subsidies to subscribers who purchase new handsets. KTF currently provides subsidies between Won 80,000 to Won 300,000 to subscribers for purchase of PCS handsets if they meet certain minimum subscription and billing requirements. Mobile number portability has intensified competition among the mobile service providers and increased their marketing expenses. In addition, the decision by the Ministry of Information and Communication to allow subsidies for handsets may further intensify competition among the mobile service providers and may increase their marketing expenses. If the mobile service providers adopt a strategy of expanding market share through price competition, it could lead to a decrease in the net profit margins of KTF.

 

On March 6, 2003, KT ICOM, a company created by a consortium of companies including KT Corporation and KTF to offer W-CDMA-based IMT-2000 services, merged into KTF in a stock-for-stock transaction. IMT-2000 is a third-generation, high-capacity wireless communications technology, which allows operators to provide to their customers significantly more bandwidth capacity. Although we expect that our competitors will face similar challenges that we expect to face in implementing this third-generation technology, we cannot assure you that KTF will be able to successfully compete with other service providers. KTF’s inability to compete effectively with other service providers could have a material adverse effect on its financial condition and results of operations. See “—Implementation of the IMT-2000 technology poses challenges and risks to us.” In addition, KTF and NTT DoCoMo Inc. (“DoCoMo”) entered into a strategic alliance in December 2005, pursuant to which DoCoMo acquired common shares representing 10.0% interest in KTF for Won 564 billion. Under the agreement, DoCoMo has the right to require us to purchase these shares if KTF fails to achieve an agreed W-CDMA service coverage rate in Korea by December 31, 2008. If the option is exercised by DoCoMo, we will be required to purchase the shares at the acquisition price plus interest by February 15, 2009. KTF believes that it has achieved W-CDMA service coverage rate specified in the agreement, and DoCoMo is expected to complete its verification in the second half of 2007.

 

Internet Services. The Korean broadband Internet access service market has experienced significant growth since Korea Thrunet first introduced its Hybrid Fiber Coaxial (or HFC) based service in 1998. Hanaro Telecom entered the broadband market in 1999 offering both HFC and Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (or ADSL) services. We also began offering broadband Internet access service in 1999, followed by Dreamline, Onse and LG DACOM. In recent years, numerous cable television operators have also begun HFC-based services at rates lower than ours. We had a market share of 45.2% as of December 31, 2006 based on the number of subscribers in Korea estimated by us. As a result of having to compete with a number of competitors and the maturing of the Internet access service market, we currently encounter and we expect to encounter pressure to increase marketing expenses in the future. In addition, smaller competitors in the broadband market today may become larger competitors in the future. For example, Hanaro merged with Korea Thrunet in January 2006.

 

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The market for other Internet-related services in Korea is also very competitive. We anticipate that competition will continue to intensify as the usage and popularity of the Internet grows and as new domestic and international competitors enter the Internet industry in Korea. The substantial growth and potential size of the Internet industry in Korea have drawn many competitors and as a result may lead to increasing price competition to provide Internet-related services. Increased competition in the Internet industry could have a material adverse effect on the number of subscribers of our Internet-related service and on our results of operations.

 

WTO Agreement. Under the multilateral agreement on basic telecommunications services among the members of the World Trade Organization effective November 1997 (the “WTO Agreement”), the Government of Korea has agreed to gradually reduce the restrictions on foreign and individual shareholdings in KT Corporation and other network service providers in Korea. The relevant Korean law was amended to give effect to the provisions of the WTO Agreement. While the WTO Agreement enables us to seek foreign investors and strategic partners and to more easily take advantage of opportunities for investments in overseas telecommunications projects, it may also benefit our competitors and further intensify competition in the domestic market.

 

Implementation of the IMT-2000 technology poses challenges and risks to us.

 

We acquired the right to purchase one of three licenses to provide IMT-2000 services on December 15, 2000, as a member of a consortium of companies including KT Corporation and KTF. In March 2001, KT ICOM, a company created by the consortium, paid half of the Won 1.3 trillion license fee payable to the Ministry of Information and Communication. KTF, which subsequently merged with KT ICOM, is currently obligated to pay the remaining Won 650 billion over a period of five years starting in 2007 as follows: Won 90 billion in 2007, Won 110 billion in 2008, Won 130 billion in 2009, Won 150 billion in 2010 and Won 170 billion in 2011. This payable accrues interest at the applicable three-year Government bond interest rate minus 0.75%. The accrued interest is paid on an annual basis to the Ministry of Information and Communication.

 

IMT-2000 presents risks and challenges to our business, any or all of which, if realized or not addressed, may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. We expect KTF to leverage its existing PCS network and 2.5-generation technology to minimize its capital expenditures and other costs related to developing IMT-2000 services. However, we believe KTF will still require significant amounts of research and development and capital expenditures to build out its IMT-2000 network. No assurance can be given that the content, solutions and network will be developed in a timely and efficient manner by us or third parties, or if developed will gain market acceptance such that KTF will be able to derive revenues from IMT-2000 services to justify the license fee, capital expenditures and other investments required for such service. KTF expanded its coverage area of High Speed Downlink Packet Access (or HSDPA)-based IMT-2000 services to 84 cities in December 2006 and nationwide in March 2007. KTF’s HSDPA-based IMT-2000 services may not be commercially successful if there are unfavorable market conditions or weak service demand.

 

Our WiBro service poses challenges and risks to us.

 

In March 2005, we acquired a license to provide wireless broadband Internet access service for Won 126 billion. Wireless broadband Internet access service, or WiBro, enables two-way wireless broadband Internet access to portable computers, mobile phones and other portable devices at a speed averaging 1 Mbps per user. A subscriber is able to access the WiBro network during transit up to 120 kilometers per hour. We positioned WiBro to provide Internet Protocol (IP)-based triple-play services, which are voice, data and video. We conducted trial service of WiBro service in parts of Seoul and Gyunggi Province starting in April 2006 and commercially launched our service in these areas in June 2006. We expanded the service to all of metropolitan Seoul and select universities in Gyunggi Province in April 2007, and we plan to gradually further expand the service to other major cities in Korea, subject to market demand. We are planning to spend approximately Won 240 billion in capital expenditures in 2007 to expand our WiBro network, which we may adjust after periodic assessments. We believe that significant additional amounts of capital expenditures and research and

 

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development will be required to complete buildout of our WiBro network. No assurance can be given that the network will be developed in a timely and efficient manner by us or third parties, or if developed that it will gain market acceptance such that we will be able to derive revenues from WiBro service to justify the license fee, capital expenditures and other investments required to provide such service.

 

Disputes with our labor union may disrupt our business operations.

 

In the past, we have experienced opposition from our labor union for our strategy of restructuring to improve our efficiency and profitability by disposing of non-core businesses and reducing our employee base. Although we have not experienced any significant labor disputes and unrests during the past five years, there can be no assurance that we will not experience in the future labor disputes and unrests, including expanded protests and strikes, which could disrupt our business operations and have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operation.

 

We also negotiate collective bargaining agreements every two years with our labor union and annually negotiate a wage agreement. Our current collective bargaining agreement expires in August 2007. Although we have been able to reach collective bargaining agreements and wage agreements with our labor union in recent years, there can be no assurance that we will not experience in the future labor disputes and unrests resulting from disagreements with the labor union.

 

The Korean telecommunications industry has been subject to the Government’s regulation, and change in Government policy relating to the industry could have a material adverse effect on our operations and financial condition.

 

The Government, primarily through the Ministry of Information and Communication, has authority to regulate the telecommunications industry. The Ministry of Information and Communication’s policy is to promote competition in the Korean telecommunications markets through measures designed to prevent the dominant service provider in any such market from exercising its market power in such a way as to prevent the emergence and development of viable competitors. The Ministry of Information and Communication, in consultation with the Ministry of Finance and Economy, currently approves local service rates and broadband Internet access service rates charged by us and mobile service rates charged by SK Telecom. Under current Government regulations, if a network service provider has the largest market share for a specified type of service and its revenue from that service for the previous year exceeds a specific revenue amount set by the Ministry of Information and Communication, it must obtain prior approval from the Ministry of Information and Communication for the rates and the general terms for that service. Each year the Ministry of Information and Communication designates service providers the rates and the general terms of which must be approved by the Ministry of Information and Communication. In recent years, the Ministry of Information and Communication has so designated us for local telephone service and broadband Internet access service and SK Telecom for mobile service. The inability to freely set our local telephone service and broadband Internet access rates may hurt the profit from that business and impede our ability to compete effectively against our competitors. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Item 4.B. Business Overview—Regulation—Rates.” The form of our standard agreement for providing local network service and each agreement for interconnection with other service providers are also subject to approval by the Ministry of Information and Communication. The Ministry of Information and Communication currently does not regulate our domestic long-distance, international long-distance and mobile service rates.

 

Furthermore, the Ministry of Information and Communication has recently announced a “road map” highlighting upcoming revisions in regulations to promote deregulation of the telecommunications industry. The road map includes allowing telecommunications service providers to bundle their services, such as broadband Internet access service, mobile telephone service and fixed-line telephone service, at a discounted rate starting in July 2007, provided that we and SK Telecom, which are designated as market-dominating business entities under the Telecommunications Business Act, allow other competitors to employ the services provided by us and SK

 

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Telecom, respectively, so that the competitors can provide similar discounted package services. The road map also includes plans to amend the regulations and provisions under the Telecommunications Business Act by as early as October of this year to permit licensed transmission service providers to offer local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance telephone services, as well as broadband Internet access and Internet phone services, without the need to obtain further approval from the Ministry of Information and Communication. The Ministry of Information and Communication also plans to extend local number portability to Internet phone subscribers, which the ministry expects to implement in 2008.

 

We also plan to put more focus on entering the IP media market, including offering broadband Internet television (or IP-TV) service. The Government is currently reviewing how it should regulate this new industry. Although we currently believe that we will be able to compete in this market, there can be no assurance that the Government regulations and policies will permit us to do so. We will strive to enter the IP-TV market early, but we may need to adjust the timing depending on governmental regulations and policies.

 

Government policies and regulations relating to the above as well as other regulations involving the telecommunications industry may change (including as a result of the implementation of free trade agreements between Korea and other countries, including the United States, as well as new changes that may be implemented by the new administration subsequent to the national presidential election in December 2007), which could have a material adverse effect on our operations and financial condition. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Item 4.B. Business Overview—Regulation.”

 

We are subject to various regulations under the Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act.

 

The Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act provides for various regulations and restrictions on large business groups enforced by the Fair Trade Commission. Previously, we were not regulated as a large business group under the Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act because the Fair Trade Commission did not designate companies with Government ownership (including Government invested enterprises and The Korea Development Bank) as large business groups. The Fair Trade Commission initially designated us as a large business group under the Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act on April 1, 2002, which subjects us to regulations prohibiting, among other things, our cross guarantees of debt and cross shareholdings by members of a business group.

 

In July 2004, the Fair Trade Commission began an antitrust investigation into alleged unfair collaborative practices of us, Hanaro, LG DACOM and Onse in local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance telephone service markets, as well as in broadband Internet access and Internet leased line service markets. On May 25, 2005, the Fair Trade Commission imposed fines of Won 116 billion on us, Won 2 billion on Hanaro and Won 1 billion on LG DACOM, claiming that we and these other companies engaged in unfair collaborative practices in local telephone and Internet leased line service markets. On September 14, 2005, the Fair Trade Commission imposed an additional fine of Won 24 billion on us for our alleged unfair collaborative practices in domestic and international long-distance telephone service market. We were following administrative guidelines from the Ministry of Information and Communication, which had advised that we, as a dominant service provider in these markets, assist late market entrants in order to promote a more competitive local telephone service market in Korea. The legality of such administrative guidelines from the Ministry of Information and Communication has been disputed by the Fair Trade Commission. We filed for judicial review of administrative actions related to local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance telephone service markets, but we cannot give any assurance that the ultimate outcome of the lawsuit or related future actions will be favorable to us or reduce the amount of fine imposed on us. As a result of the ruling by the Fair Trade Commission, we have recorded Won 140 billion as taxes and dues under operating expenses in 2005 and paid such amount in 2006. There can be no assurance that any future investigations by the Fair Trade Commission on alleged unfair collaborative price-fixing practices will not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. See “Item 8. Financial Information—Item 8.A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.”

 

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Depreciation of the value of the Won against the Dollar and other major foreign currencies may have a material adverse effect on the results of our operations and on the prices of our securities.

 

Substantially all of our revenues are denominated in Won. Depreciation of the Won may materially affect the results of our operations because, among other things, it causes an increase in the amount of Won required by us to make interest and principal payments on our foreign-currency-denominated debt, the costs of equipment that we purchase from overseas sources, net settlement payments to foreign carriers and administrations and certain payments related to our derivative instruments entered into for foreign exchange risk hedging purposes. Of the Won 7,450 billion total long-term debt (including current portion) outstanding as of December 31, 2006, Won 1,413 billion was denominated in foreign currencies with interest rates ranging from 4.88% to 7.63%. See “Item 3. Key Information—Item 3.A. Select Financial Data—Exchange Rate Information” and Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources.”

 

Risks Relating to Korea

 

Korea is our most important market, and our current business and future growth could be materially and adversely affected if economic conditions in Korea deteriorate.

 

We are incorporated in Korea, and substantially all of our operations and assets are located in Korea. As a result, we are subject to political, economic, legal and regulatory risks specific to Korea.

 

From early 1997 until 1999, Korea experienced a significant financial and economic downturn, from which it is widely believed the country has now recovered to a significant extent. However, the economic indicators in recent years have shown mixed signs of recovery and uncertainty, and future recovery or growth of the economy is subject to many factors beyond our control. Events related to the terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, 2001, recent developments in the Middle East including the war in Iraq, higher oil prices, the general weakness of the global economy and the occurrence of avian flu in Asia and other parts of the world have increased the uncertainty of global economic prospects and may continue to adversely affect the Korean economy. Any future deterioration of the Korean and global economy could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Developments that could have an adverse impact on Korea’s economy include:

 

   

financial problems or lack of progress in restructuring of chaebols, or Korean conglomerates, other large troubled companies, their suppliers or the financial sector;

 

   

loss of investor confidence arising from corporate accounting irregularities and corporate governance issues of certain Korean conglomerates;

 

   

a slowdown in consumer spending;

 

   

adverse changes or volatility in foreign currency reserve levels, commodity prices, exchange rates, interest rates or stock markets;

 

   

adverse developments in the economies of countries that are important export markets for Korea, such as the United States, Japan and China, or in emerging market economies in Asia or elsewhere;

 

   

the continued emergence of the Chinese economy, to the extent its benefits (such as increased exports to China) are outweighed by its costs (such as competition in export markets or for foreign investment and the relocation of manufacturing bases from Korea to China);

 

   

social and labor unrest;

 

   

substantial decreases in the market prices of Korean real estate;

 

   

a decrease in tax revenues and a substantial increase in the Korean government’s expenditures for unemployment compensation and other social programs that, together, would lead to an increased government budget deficit;

 

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geo-political uncertainty and risk of further attacks by terrorist groups around the world;

 

   

implementation of free trade agreements between Korea and other countries, including the United States;

 

   

the recurrence of severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS, or an outbreak of avian flu in Asia and other parts of the world;

 

   

deterioration in economic or diplomatic relations between Korea and its trading partners or allies, including deterioration resulting from trade disputes or disagreements in foreign policy;

 

   

political uncertainty or increasing strife among or within political parties in Korea;

 

   

hostilities involving oil producing countries in the Middle East and any material disruption in the supply of oil or increase in the price of oil; and

 

   

an increase in the level of tension or an outbreak of hostilities between North Korea and Korea or the United States.

 

Escalations in tensions with North Korea could have an adverse effect on us.

 

Relations between Korea and North Korea have been tense throughout Korea’s modern history. The level of tension between the two Koreas has fluctuated and may increase abruptly as a result of current and future events. In recent years, there have been heightened security concerns stemming from North Korea’s nuclear weapon and long-range missile programs and increased uncertainty regarding North Korea’s actions and possible responses from the international community.

 

In December 2002, North Korea removed the seals and surveillance equipment from its Yongbyon nuclear power plant and evicted inspectors from the United Nations International Atomic Energy Agency. In January 2003, North Korea renounced its obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Since the renouncement, Korea, the United States, North Korea, China, Japan and Russia have held numerous rounds of six party multi-lateral talks in an effort to resolve issues relating to North Korea’s nuclear weapons program.

 

In addition to conducting test flights of long-range missiles, North Korea announced in October 2006 that it had successfully conducted a nuclear test, which increased tensions in the region and elicited strong objections worldwide. In response, the United Nations Security Council passed a resolution that prohibits any United Nations member state from conducting transactions with North Korea in connection with any large scale arms and material or technology related to missile development or weapons of mass destruction and from providing luxury goods to North Korea, imposes an asset freeze and travel ban on persons associated with North Korea’s weapons program, and calls upon all United Nations member states to take cooperative action, including through inspection of cargo to or from North Korea. In response, North Korea agreed in February 2007 at the six-party talks to shut down and seal the Yongbyon nuclear facility, including the reprocessing facility, and readmit international inspectors to conduct all necessary monitoring and verifications. In return, the other five parties in the six-party talks agreed to provide emergency energy assistance of 50,000 tons of heavy fuel oil to North Korea in the initial phase.

 

There can be no assurance that the February 2007 accord will be implemented as agreed or the level of tension on the Korean peninsula will not escalate in the future. Any further increase in tension could have an adverse effect on our operations.

 

Risks Relating to the Securities

 

If an investor surrenders his ADSs to withdraw the underlying shares, he may not be allowed to deposit the shares again to obtain ADSs.

 

Korean law currently limits foreign ownership of the ADSs and our shares. In addition, under our deposit agreement, the depositary bank cannot accept deposits of shares and deliver ADSs representing those shares

 

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unless (1) we have consented to such deposit or (2) Korean counsel has advised the depositary bank that the consent required under (1) is no longer required under Korean laws and regulations. Under current Korean laws and regulations, the depositary bank is required to obtain our prior consent for the number of shares to be deposited in any given proposed deposit which exceeds the difference between (1) the aggregate number of shares deposited by us or with our consent for the issuance of ADSs (including deposits in connection with the initial and all subsequent offerings of ADSs and stock dividends or other distributions related to these ADSs) and (2) the number of shares on deposit with the depositary bank at the time of such proposed deposit. The depositary bank has informed us that, at a time it considers to be appropriate, the depositary bank plans to start accepting deposits of shares without our consent and deliver ADSs representing those shares up to the amount allowed under current Korean laws and regulations. Until such time, however, the depositary bank will continue to obtain our consent for such deposits of shares and delivery of ADSs, which we may not provide. Consequently, if an investor surrenders his ADSs to withdraw the underlying shares, he may not be allowed to deposit the shares again to obtain ADSs. See “Item 10. Additional Information—Item 10.D. Exchange Controls.”

 

A foreign investor may not be able to exercise voting rights with respect to common shares exceeding the number of common shares held by our largest domestic shareholder.

 

Under the Telecommunications Business Act, a foreign shareholder who holds 5.0% or more of our total shares is prohibited from becoming our largest shareholder. However, any foreign shareholder who held 5.0% or more of our total shares and was our largest shareholder on or prior to May 9, 2004 is exempt from the regulations, provided that such foreign shareholder may not acquire any more of our shares. Under the Telecommunications Business Act, the Ministry of Information and Communication may, if it deems it necessary to preserve substantial public interests, prohibit a foreign shareholder from being our largest shareholder. In addition, the Foreign Investment Promotion Act prohibits any foreign shareholder from being our largest shareholder if such shareholder owns 5.0% or more of our shares with voting rights. In the event that any foreigner or foreign government acquires our shares in violation of the above provisions, such foreign shareholder may not be able to exercise voting rights with respect to common shares exceeding such threshold. The Ministry of Information and Communication may also order us or the foreign shareholder to take corrective measures in respect of the excess shares within a specified period of six months or less.

 

Holders of ADSs will not be able to exercise dissenter’s rights unless they have withdrawn the underlying common stock and become our direct shareholders.

 

In some limited circumstances, including the transfer of the whole or any significant part of our business and our merger or consolidation with another company, dissenting shareholders have the right to require us to purchase their shares under Korean law. A holder of ADSs will not be able to exercise dissenter’s rights unless he has withdrawn the underlying common stock and become our direct shareholder. See “Item 10. Additional Information—Item 10.B. Memorandum and Articles of Association.”

 

An investor may not be able to exercise preemptive rights for additional shares and may suffer dilution of his equity interest in us.

 

The Commercial Code of Korea and our articles of incorporation require us, with some exceptions, to offer shareholders the right to subscribe for new shares in proportion to their existing ownership percentage whenever new shares are issued. If we offer any rights to subscribe for additional shares of our common stock or any rights of any other nature, the depositary bank, after consultation with us, may make the rights available to an ADS holder or use reasonable efforts to dispose of the rights on behalf of the ADS holder and make the net proceeds available to the ADS holder. The depositary bank, however, is not required to make available to an ADS holder any rights to purchase any additional shares unless it deems that doing so is lawful and feasible and:

 

   

a registration statement filed by us under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, is in effect with respect to those shares; or

 

   

the offering and sale of those shares is exempt from or is not subject to the registration requirements of the Securities Act.

 

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We are under no obligation to file any registration statement. If a registration statement is required for an ADS holder to exercise preemptive rights but is not filed by us, the ADS holder will not be able to exercise his preemptive rights for additional shares. As a result, the ADS holder may suffer dilution of his equity interest in us.

 

You may not be able to find trading markets for your bonds.

 

The bonds are securities with no established trading market. We cannot provide any assurance as to the liquidity of, or the trading markets for, these bonds.

 

Forward-looking statements may prove to be inaccurate.

 

This annual report contains “forward-looking statements” that are based on our current expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections about our company and our industry. The forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “project,” “should,” and similar expressions. Those statements include, among other things, the discussions of our business strategy and expectations concerning our market position, future operations, margins, profitability, liquidity and capital resources. We caution you that reliance on any forward-looking statement involves risks and uncertainties, and that although we believe that the assumptions on which our forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, any of those assumptions could prove to be inaccurate, and, as a result, the forward-looking statements based on those assumptions could be incorrect. The uncertainties in this regard include, but are not limited to, those identified in the risk factors discussed above. In light of these and other uncertainties, you should not conclude that we will necessarily achieve any plans and objectives or projected financial results referred to in any of the forward-looking statements. We do not undertake to release the results of any revisions of these forward-looking statements to reflect future events or circumstances.

 

Item 4. Information on the Company

 

Item 4.A. History and Development of the Company

 

In 1981, the Government established us under the Korea Telecom Act to operate the telecommunications services business that it previously directly operated. Under the Korea Telecom Act and the Government-Invested Enterprises Management Basic Act, the Government had a greater control over our business and affairs. Effective October 1, 1997, the Korea Telecom Act was repealed and the Government-Invested Enterprises Management Basic Act became inapplicable to us. As a result, we became a corporation under the Commercial Code, and our corporate organization and shareholders’ rights were governed by the Privatization Law and the Commercial Code. Among other things, we began to exercise greater autonomy in setting our annual budget and making investments in the telecommunications industry, and our directors, who used to be appointed by the Government under the Korea Telecom Act, are now elected by our shareholders.

 

Until 1993, the Government owned all of the issued shares of our common stock. From 1993 through May 2002, the Government disposed of all of its equity interest in us. With the completion of disposition of the Government’s ownership interest in us in May 2002, the Privatization Law ceased to apply to us in August 2002. We amended our legal name from Korea Telecom Corp. to KT Corporation in March 2002.

 

Before December 1991, we were the sole provider of local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance telephone services in Korea. The Government began to introduce competition in the telecommunications services market in the early 1990’s. As a result, including ourselves, there are currently three local telephone service providers, five domestic long-distance carriers and numerous international long-distance carriers (including voice resellers) in Korea. In addition, the Government has awarded licenses to several new service providers to enhance the competition in other telecommunications business areas such as mobile telephone services and data network services. See “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Competition.”

 

Our legal and commercial name is KT Corporation. Our principal executive offices are located at 206 Jungja-dong, Bundang-ku, Sungnam, Gyunggi-do, Korea, and our telephone number is (8231) 727-0114.

 

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Item 4.B. Business Overview

 

We are the leading telecommunications service provider in Korea and one of the largest and most advanced in Asia. As an integrated telecommunications service provider, our principal services include:

 

   

telephone services, including local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance fixed-line telephone services and interconnection services to other telecommunications companies;

 

   

broadband Internet access service and other Internet-related services;

 

   

PCS mobile telecommunications service through our subsidiary, KTF; and

 

   

various other services, including leased line service and other data communication service, satellite service and information technology and network services.

 

We own substantially all of the domestic public exchanges, the nationwide network of local telephone lines, the principal public long-distance telephone transmission facilities and the principal data communications network in Korea, as well as two satellites in operation. In addition, through KTF, we operate a nationwide PCS network.

 

Historically, we have derived a substantial majority of our revenues from fixed-line telephone services. However, as our traditional businesses have matured and new technologies have become available, we have successfully leveraged our nationwide network, strong brand name and established customer base in Korea to pursue new growth opportunities.

 

We are focusing on building upon our strong position in each of our principal lines of business:

 

   

We are currently the dominant provider of fixed-line telephone services in Korea with approximately 26.8 million installed lines, of which 20.0 million lines were in service as of December 31, 2006. As of December 31, 2006, our market share of the local market was 92.1% based on the number of local fixed-line subscribers estimated by us. Based on revenues in 2006 estimated by us, our market share of the domestic long-distance market was 85.6%;

 

   

We are Korea’s largest broadband Internet access provider in terms of subscribers, with 6.4 million subscribers as of December 31, 2006, representing a market share of 45.2%;

 

   

We are Korea’s second largest mobile telecommunications service provider. KTF, our consolidated subsidiary, had approximately 13.0 million subscribers (including our resale subscribers) as of December 31, 2006, representing a market share of 32.1% of the total mobile service market in Korea based on the number of mobile subscribers announced by the Ministry of Information and Communication; and

 

   

We are also the leading provider of data communication service in Korea.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2006, under Korean GAAP our operating revenues were Won 17,756 billion (US$19,093 million), our net earnings were Won 1,292 billion (US$1,389 million) and our basic earnings per share was Won 6,155 (US$6.62). As of December 31, 2006, our total stockholders’ equity was Won 10,697 billion (US$11,503 million).

 

The Telecommunications Industry in Korea

 

The Korean telecommunications industry is one of the most developed in Asia in terms of broadband Internet and mobile penetration rates. As of December 31, 2006, the broadband Internet penetration rate, which is calculated by dividing the number of broadband Internet access service subscribers by the number of households in Korea, was 88.0%, and the mobile penetration rate, which is calculated by dividing the number of mobile subscribers by the population of Korea, was 83.1%. According to the Ministry of Information and Communication, the number of broadband Internet access subscribers totaled 14.0 million as of December 31, 2006 and the number of mobile subscribers totaled 40.0 million as of such date.

 

The Ministry of Information and Communication has the primary responsibility for regulating the telecommunications industry in Korea. See “—Regulation.”

 

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Broadband Internet Access Market

 

With advancement of broadband technology, the Korean broadband Internet access market has experienced significant growth. Broadband Internet connection can be achieved through satellite, terrestrial wireless and fiber optic-based solutions. However, the principal technologies used in the provision of high speed Internet access are xDSL and HFC. xDSL refers to various types of digital subscriber lines, including ADSL and VDSL. xDSL offers an access solution over existing telephone lines using a specialized modem while HFC service involves the use of two-way cable networks. These two technologies are more widely used than the other available technologies because of their relative reliability, ease of provisioning and cost effectiveness. Since the subscribers of two-way cable networks share a limited bandwidth, the downstream speed tends to slow down as the number of subscribers increases, thereby decreasing the quality of HFC-based service. While xDSL technology was commercially introduced after HFC technology, it has surpassed HFC to become the prevalent broadband access platform in Korea. VDSL, ADSL-based technology with enhanced downstream speed, became commercialized in July 2002. Certain service providers are upgrading their broadband network to enable broadband connection that is comparable to our fiber-to-the-home (or FTTH) connection, which further enhances downstream speed and connection quality.

 

In recent years, Broadband Internet access service providers and mobile telecommunications service providers have focused their attention to provide wireless Internet connection capabilities. They have introduced wireless LAN service with speed of up to 54 Mbps, which is designed to integrate fixed-line and wireless services by offering high speed wireless Internet access to laptops or PDAs in hot-spot zones and at home. Some service providers have also developed wireless Internet networks to provide WiBro service, which enables two-way wireless broadband Internet access to portable computers, mobile phones and other portable devices at a speed averaging 1 Mbps per user. Commercial WiBro service was launched in parts of Seoul and Gyunggi Province in June 2006. We expanded the service to all of metropolitan Seoul and select universities in Gyunggi Province in April 2007, and we plan to gradually further expand the service to other major cities in Korea, subject to market demand.

 

Mobile Telecommunications Service Market

 

The Korean cellular market was formally established in 1984 when SK Telecom, formerly Korea Mobile Telecom, became the first mobile telephone operator in Korea. SK Telecom remained the only cellular operator in Korea until Shinsegi Telecomm began service in 1994. In order to encourage further market growth and competition, the Ministry of Information and Communication awarded three PCS licenses in June 1996. Our mobile subsidiary, KTF, was awarded a license alongside LG Telecom and Hansol M.com. Commercial PCS service was launched in October 1997.

 

Since the introduction of three new operators in 1997, the Korean mobile market has undergone consolidation and significant growth. Following SK Telecom’s purchase of a controlling stake in Shinsegi, we acquired a 47.9% interest in Hansol M.com in 2000 and renamed the company KT M.com. KT M.com merged into KTF in May 2001 and Shinsegi merged into SK Telecom in January 2002. The table below gives the subscription and penetration information of the mobile telecommunications industry for the periods indicated:

 

     As of December 31,

 
     2002

    2003

    2004

    2005

    2006

 

Total Korean Population(1)

   47,640     47,925     48,199     48,294     48,378  

Mobile Subscribers(2)

   32,343     33,592     36,586     38,342     40,197  

PCS(2)

   15,123     15,279     17,803     18,812     19,926  

Cellular(2)

   17,220     18,313     18,783     19,530     20,271  

Mobile Subscriber Growth Rate

   11.4 %   3.9 %   8.9 %   4.8 %   4.8 %

Mobile Penetration(3)

   67.9 %   70.1 %   75.9 %   79.4 %   83.1 %

(1) In thousands, based on population trend estimates by the National Statistical Office of Korea.
(2) In thousands, based on information announced by the Ministry of Information and Communication.
(3) Penetration is determined by dividing mobile subscribers by total Korean population.

 

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Korea’s highly developed mobile market also extends into an advanced mobile data market. Mobile Internet service in Korea has grown rapidly since its introduction in 2001. All the mobile operators have developed extensive mobile data and Internet service portals. Korean operators have also invested in networks compatible with Evolution-Data Optimized (or EV-DO) handsets which allow subscribers to enjoy 2.5 generation high speed wireless data services. They also offer third-generation, high-capacity HSDPA wireless Internet and video multimedia communications services which use significantly greater bandwidth capacity.

 

Business Strategy

 

We believe the telecommunications market in Korea will continue to expand due to Korea’s growing economy, consumers’ willingness to adopt new technologies, relatively high income and a relatively large middle class. We also believe that the convergence of communications technologies will provide a competitive advantage to incumbent telecommunications service providers with existing infrastructure, which are able to design and construct sophisticated and nationwide networks capable of serving as a common delivery platform for a broad range of services and enhance value for our customers. Consistent with our strategic objectives, we aim to pursue growth in the following four core areas.

 

   

Delivery. We aim to maintain our market leadership positions in traditional telecommunications service areas and leverage our dominant subscriber base when offering a new generation of services such as WiBro, HSDPA and FTTH. We will also focus on meeting our customers’ increasing demand for ubiquitous access to mobile data communications and integrated fixed-line and wireless telecommunications services. We plan to use our extensive customer relationships and market knowledge to expand our revenue bases by cross-selling our telecommunications products and services.

 

   

Digital Entertainment. We plan to focus on entering the IP media market and expanding our partnerships with digital media content providers. We began providing standard definition video-on-demand services to customers of our Megapass services in June 2004, and we expect to start providing high definition video-on-demand services in mid-2007. We began promoting video-on-demand services under the new brand name “MegaTV” in June 2007, and plan to expand our MegaTV service to include IP-TV service as soon as permitted to do so under governmental regulations. We will continue our efforts to enhance our ability to provide unique digital media contents, including through acquisitions of leading contents production companies in Korea.

 

   

Convenience Solutions. Our vision is to provide our customers with a one-stop shop for convenience solutions that will enhance their lifestyle. We plan to expand our scope of services to incorporate convenience solutions such as video home security, home network robotics and real estate maintenance services, either internally or through our subsidiaries or strategic alliances with specialists.

 

   

Business Solutions. We also aim to provide our corporate customers with a one-stop shop for customized information and technology solutions. We will continue to develop existing services such as Bizmeka (business solutions targeting small- and medium-sized enterprises), Internet data centers and system integration consulting services, as well as introduce new services that can take advantage of our competitive strengths and capture the growth potential that new businesses offer. For example, we plan to focus on procurement of information and technology systems from corporate and financial institutions and providing system maintenance services on a real-time basis, as well as participate in building information and technology infrastructure for ubiquitous city development projects.

 

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Our Services

 

Telephone Services

 

Fixed-line Telephone Services. We utilize our extensive nationwide telephone network to provide fixed-line telephone services, which consist of local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance services. These fixed-line telephone services accounted for 22.3% of our operating revenues in 2006. Our telephone network includes exchanges, long-distance transmission equipment and fiber optic and copper cables. The following table gives some basic measures of the development of our telephone system:

 

     As of or for the Year Ended December 31,

 
     2002

   2003

   2004

   2005

   2006

 

Total Korean Population(1)

   47,640    47,925    48,199    48,294    48,378  

Lines installed (thousands)(2)

   25,104    25,202    25,577    26,190    26,838  

Lines in service (thousands)(2)

   22,327    21,841    21,091    20,837    20,331  

Lines in service per 100 inhabitants(3)

   46.9    45.6    43.8    43.1    42.0  

Percentage of lines connected to digital exchanges

   92.4    100.0    100.0    100.0    100.0  

Fiber optic cable (kilometers)

   122,243    128,172    157,707    167,857    212,715  

Number of public telephones installed (thousands)

   446    374    317    267    218  

Domestic long-distance call minutes (millions)(4)

   17,133    17,007    15,024    13,368    12,547  

Local call pulses (millions)(4)

   26,859    23,597    20,585    18,566    16,182 (5)

(1) In thousands, based on population trend estimates by the National Statistical Office of Korea.
(2) Including lines used for public telephones.
(3) Determined based on lines in service and total Korean population.
(4) Including calls placed from public telephones.
(5) Company’s estimate.

 

Our domestic long-distance cable network is entirely made up of fiber optic cable and can carry both voice and data transmissions. Compared to conventional materials such as coaxial cable, fiber optic cable provides significantly greater transmission capacity with less signal fading, thus requiring less frequent amplification. In recent years, we have also increased the proportion of our lines that are connected to exchanges capable of handling digital signal technology. A principal limitation of the older analog technology is that applications other than voice communications, such as the transmission of text and computer data, require either separate networks or conversion equipment. Digital systems permit a range of voice, text and data applications to be transmitted simultaneously on the same network. We completed connection of all installed lines to digital exchanges in June 2003.

 

The following table shows the number of minutes of international long-distance calls recorded by us in each specified category for each year in the five-year period ended December 31, 2006:

 

     Year Ended December 31,

     2002

   2003

   2004

   2005

   2006

     (In millions of billed minutes)

Incoming international long-distance calls

   544.0    528.8    569.8    558.9    519.4

Outgoing international long-distance calls

   572.3    524.7    527.4    467.8    400.9
    
  
  
  
  

Total

   1,116.3    1,053.5    1,097.2    1,026.7    920.3
    
  
  
  
  

 

United States (26.8%), Japan (17.4%) and China (13.9%) accounted for the greatest percentage of our international long-distance call traffic measured in minutes in 2006. The volume of our outgoing calls exceeded the volume of our incoming calls in 2002. Starting in 2003, the volume of our incoming calls exceeded the volume of our outgoing calls. The agreed settlement rate is applied to the call minutes to determine the applicable net settlement payment.

 

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We also provide Internet phone service for international long-distance calls. Despite the inconvenience of having to dial many numbers to access the Internet phone service, the volume of international long-distance calls made on Internet phone services, measured in terms of call minutes, has significantly increased since Internet phone service was first introduced in Korea in March 1998. Our Internet phone service also competes with international long-distance services provided by various voice resellers.

 

Interconnection. Under the Telecommunications Business Act, we are required to permit other service providers to interconnect to our fixed-line network. Currently, the principal users of this interconnection capacity include Hanaro and LG DACOM (offering local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance services), Onse and SK Telink (offering international and domestic long-distance services), SK Telecom (transmitting calls to and from its cellular network) and KTF and LG Telecom (transmitting calls to and from their PCS networks). We expect that interconnection revenues and payments will remain important for our results of operations. In recent years, revenues from a landline user for a call initiated by a landline user to a mobile service subscriber (land-to-mobile interconnection) have become a significant portion of our results of operations, accounting for 10.0% of our operating revenues in 2006. We recognize as land-to-mobile interconnection revenue the entire amount of the usage charge collected from the landline user and recognize as an expense the amount of interconnection charge paid to the mobile service provider.

 

Internet Services

 

Broadband Internet Access Service. Leveraging on our nationwide network of more than 10.7 million installed lines and 212,715 kilometers of fiber optic cable network, we have achieved a leading market position in the broadband Internet access market in Korea. We believe we have a competitive advantage over other broadband Internet access service providers because, unlike our competitors, we can utilize our existing networks nationwide to provide broadband Internet access service. Our broadband Internet access service accounted for 12.1% of our operating revenues in 2006. Our principal Internet access services include:

 

   

xDSL, Ntopia and FTTH services under the “Megapass” brand name;

 

   

wireless LAN service under the “Nespot” brand name, which is designed to integrate fixed-line and wireless services by offering high speed wireless Internet access to laptops and PDAs in hot-spot zones and Megapass service in fixed-line environments; and

 

   

WiBro Internet access service, which enables two-way wireless broadband Internet access to portable computers, mobile phones and other portable devices at a speed averaging 1 Mbps per user.

 

We had 6.4 million fixed-line Megapass broadband Internet subscribers as of December 31, 2006. We also had 0.4 million Nespot service subscribers as of December 31, 2006. We conducted trial service of WiBro service in parts of Seoul and Gyunggi Province starting in April 2006 and commercially launched our service in these areas in June 2006. Due to the limited service coverage, we have approximately 2,000 subscribers of WiBro service as of March 30, 2007. We expanded the service to all of metropolitan Seoul and select universities in Gyunggi Province in April 2007, and we plan to gradually further expand the service to other major cities in Korea, subject to market demand.

 

xDSL refers to various types of digital subscriber lines, including ADSL and VDSL. ADSL is a technology that converts existing copper twisted-pair telephone lines into access paths for multimedia and high-speed data communications. In essence, ADSL transforms the existing public telephone network from one limited to voice, text and low-resolution graphics to a system capable of bringing multimedia to subscriber premises without new cabling. The asymmetric design optimizes the bandwidth by maximizing the downstream speed for downloading information from the Internet. While ADSL technology was commercially introduced after HFC-based technology, it has surpassed HFC to become the prevalent access platform in Korea. VDSL, ADSL-based technology with enhanced downstream speed, became commercialized in July 2002. We are currently upgrading our broadband network to enable FTTH connection, which further enhances downstream speed up to 100 Mbps and connection quality.

 

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FTTH is a telecommunication architecture in which a communication path is provided over optical fiber cables extending from the telecommunications operator’s switching equipment to the boundary of home or office. FTTH uses fiber optic cable, which is able to carry a high-bandwidth signal for longer distances without degradation. FTTH is expected to enable us to deliver enhanced products and services that require high bandwidth, such as Internet television service and delivery of other digital media content.

 

The high-speed downstream rates can reach up to 8 Mbps for ADSL and 100 Mbps for VDSL and FTTH. Downstream rates depend on a number of factors. For a constant wire gauge, the data rate decreases as the length of the copper wire increases. Generally, if the separation between the telephone office and the subscriber is greater than four kilometers, line attenuation is so severe that broadband speeds can no longer be achieved. Approximately 95% of the households subscribing to our basic local telephone service are located within a four kilometer radius of our telephone offices, making our Megapass service available to most of the Korean population. Fiber-optic cable used by FTTH, on the other hand, uses laser light to carry signals that travel long distances inside fiber optic cable without degradation.

 

Our Megapass Ntopia service connects fiber-optic cables to apartment complexes and buildings with LAN capabilities. This technology allows data transmission speed of up to 100 Mbps. Because the service is UTP cable-based, a subscriber is automatically connected to the Internet whenever his or her personal computer is in operation. We began offering our Megapass Ntopia service in November 2000.

 

In February 2002, we launched a wireless LAN service called Nespot, which provides laptops and PDAs wireless access to high speed Internet in hot-spot zones and Megapass service in fixed-line environments. Nespot enables subscribers to access the Internet at up to 54 Mbps. We sponsored approximately 14,200 hot-spot zones nationwide for wireless connection as of December 31, 2006. We extended the Nespot service in 2003 through the launch of Nespot Swing, which allows users with PDA phones to connect to the Internet even outside the Nespot hotspots through KTF’s wireless data service specifically designed for PDAs.

 

In June 2006, we also launched our WiBro service, which enables two-way wireless broadband Internet access to portable computers, mobile phones and other portable devices at a speed averaging 1 Mbps per user. A subscriber is able to access the WiBro network during transit up to 120 kilometers per hour. We positioned WiBro to provide IP-based triple-play services, which are voice, data and video.

 

Miscellaneous Internet-related Services. Our Internet-related services focus primarily on providing infrastructure and solutions for business enterprises. Our Internet-related services accounted for 3.2% of our operating revenues in 2006.

 

We provide dedicated and secure broadband Internet connection service to institutional customers under the “Kornet” brand name. We provide high-speed connection ranging from 56 Kbps to 2.5 Gbps, as well as rent to our customers and install necessary routers to ensure reliable Internet connection and enhanced security. We provide discount rates to qualified customers, including small- and medium-sized enterprises, businesses engaging in Internet access services and government agencies.

 

We operate nine Internet data centers located throughout Korea and provide Internet computing services to companies which need servers, storages and leased lines. Internet data centers are facilities used to house, protect and maintain network server computers that store and deliver Internet and other network content, such as web pages, applications and data. Our Internet data centers are designed to meet international standards, and are equipped with temperature control systems, regulated and reliable power supplies, fire detection and suppression equipment, security monitoring and high-bandwidth connections to the Internet. Internet data centers allow corporations or Internet service providers to outsource their application and server hardware management.

 

Our Internet data centers offer network outsourcing services, server operation services and system support services. Our network outsourcing services include co-location, which is the installation of our customers’ network equipment at our Internet data centers. Co-location is designed to increase customers’ Internet

 

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connection speed and reduce connection time and costs by directly connecting the customers’ server to the Internet backbone switch at our Internet data centers. Our server operation services include optimal server management service and technical support service we provide with respect to the leased servers that are linked directly to our Internet backbone switch. We also lease servers and network equipment for a fixed monthly fee. Our system support services include providing system resources for a wide range of Internet computing services, such as application transfer, network storage, video streaming and application download, as well as sending short text messages and messages containing multimedia objects, such as images, audio and video.

 

We also offer a service called Bizmeka to develop and commercialize business-to-business solutions targeting small- and medium-sized business enterprises in Korea. Bizmeka is an applied application service provider which provides industry-specific business solutions, including customer database management and electronic data interchange.

 

In addition, we began providing standard definition video-on-demand services to customers of our Megapass services in June 2004, and we expect to start providing high definition video-on-demand services in mid-2007. We began promoting video-on-demand services under the new brand name “MegaTV” in June 2007. Our MegaTV subscribers are offered access to an array of digital media contents, including movies, sports, news, educational programs and TV replay, for a fixed monthly fee. Through a digital set-top box that we rent to our customers, our customers are able to browse the catalogue of digital media contents and view the selected media streams on their television. A set-top box provides two-way communications on an IP network and decodes video streaming data. We rent the set-top boxes free of charge to our customers who sign up for a three-year subscription period. We plan to expand our MegaTV service to include IP-TV service as soon as permitted to do so under governmental regulations.

 

PCS Service

 

KTF, one of our consolidated subsidiaries in which we owned a 52.2% interest as of December 31, 2006, obtained one of the three licenses to provide nationwide PCS service in June 1996 and began offering PCS service in all major population centers in Korea in October 1997. PCS service is a digital wireless telephone and data transmission system that uses portable handsets with long battery life to communicate via low-power antennae. KTF’s PCS service uses CDMA technology and utilizes 20 MHz of bandwidth in the 1800 MHz frequency. In May 2001, KTF launched its 2.5 generation high speed wireless data services. Subscribers who have EV-DO-compatible handsets are able to enjoy high speed multimedia services including voice, data and video transmission. KTF also expanded its coverage area of HSDPA-based IMT-2000 services to 84 cities in December 2006 and nationwide in March 2007. KTF currently offers such services under the brand name “Show.” IMT-2000 is a third-generation, high-capacity wireless Internet and video multimedia communications technology which allows an operator to provide to its subscribers significant more bandwidth capacity.

 

We entered into an air-time reselling arrangement with KTF in July 1999, under the brand name “Let’s 010,” through which we use our extensive marketing network and strong brand name to attract subscribers who can utilize the PCS networks of KTF. We bill directly to our resale subscribers for their usage of KTF’s PCS networks and collect all fees and charges relating to such usage, including initial subscription fees, monthly access fees and usage charges for outgoing calls, wireless data communications and value-added monthly services. We had approximately 2.7 million resale subscribers who utilized KTF’s network as of December 31, 2006.

 

KTF and DoCoMo entered into a strategic alliance in December 2005, pursuant to which DoCoMo acquired common shares representing 10.0% interest in KTF for Won 564 billion. Under the shareholders’ agreement, DoCoMo has the right to require us to purchase these shares if KTF fails to achieve an agreed W-CDMA service coverage rate in Korea by December 31, 2008. If the option is exercised by DoCoMo, we will be required to purchase the shares at the acquisition price plus interest by February 15, 2009. KTF believes that it has achieved W-CDMA service coverage rate specified in the agreement, and DoCoMo is expected to complete its verification in the second half of 2007.

 

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PCS service accounted for 31.0% of our operating revenues in 2006. The following table shows selected information concerning the usage of KTF’s network during the periods indicated and the number of KTF’s subscribers as of the end of such periods:

 

     As of or for the Year Ended December 31,

     2004

   2005

   2006

Outgoing Minutes (in thousands)

     19,950,143      19,580,889      19,763,593

Average Monthly Outgoing Minutes per Subscriber(1)

     181      169      164

Average Monthly Revenue per Subscriber(2)

   (Won) 39,890    (Won) 40,570    (Won) 38,768

Number of Subscribers (in thousands)(3)

     11,729      12,302      12,914

(1) The average monthly outgoing minutes per subscriber is computed by dividing the total minutes of usage for the period by the weighted average number of subscribers for the period and dividing the quotient by the number of months in the period. The weighted average number of subscribers is the sum of the total number of subscribers at the end of each month divided by the number of months in the period.
(2) The average monthly revenue per subscriber is computed by dividing total monthly access fees, usage charges, interconnection fees and value-added service fees for the period by the weighted average number of subscribers and dividing the quotient by the number of months in the period.
(3) Includes resale subscribers of KT Corporation who utilized KTF’s network. KT Corporation had approximately 2.7 million resale subscribers as of December 31, 2006.

 

KTF competes not only with another PCS service provider, LG Telecom, which began its service at around the same time, but also with SK Telecom, a cellular service provider that has a longer operating history. As of December 31, 2006, KTF had approximately 12.9 million subscribers (including resale subscribers of KT Corporation), which was second largest among the three mobile service providers. As of December 31, 2006, in terms of number of subscribers announced by the Ministry of Information and Communication, KTF had a market share of 32.1% of the mobile service market.

 

Starting in January 2004 for SK Telecom subscribers, July 2004 for KTF subscribers and January 2005 for LG Telecom subscribers, mobile subscribers have been allowed to switch their service provider while retaining the same mobile phone number. In addition, all new subscribers of mobile services and existing subscribers who elect to receive a new mobile number, as well as those switching to a third-generation mobile service, are given the uniform mobile code of “010” as the first three digits of their mobile numbers without regard to the mobile service provider. The Ministry of Information and Communication has announced that it will implement the uniform mobile code to all mobile numbers once the total number of subscribers using the uniform mobile code reaches 80% to 90% of the total mobile subscribers in Korea.

 

KTF markets its services through two channels: (1) exclusive dealers and (2) the marketing network of KT Corporation pursuant to air-time reselling arrangements with us. The primary distribution channels of KTF are its independent exclusive dealers located throughout Korea. As of December 31, 2006, there were 1,164 independent exclusive dealers of KTF. In addition to assisting new subscribers to activate PCS service and purchase handsets, authorized dealers are connected to the database of KTF and are able to assist customers with account information. Although most of these dealers sell exclusively products and services of KTF, sub-dealers hired by exclusive dealers may sell products and services offered by other mobile telecommunications service providers. Authorized dealers are entitled to a commission for each new subscriber registered, as well as ongoing commissions for the first five years based primarily on the subscriber’s monthly access fee, usage charges and length of subscription. The handsets sold by KTF to the dealers cannot be returned to KTF unless they are defective. If a handset is defective, it may be exchanged for a new one within 14 days from the date of purchase.

 

KTF does not require its subscribers to make facility deposits or take out facility insurance policies with the Korea Guarantee Insurance Company, unless a subscriber purchased his or her handset through the installment payment plan. In such a situation, facility insurance is required and the subscriber typically pays a one-time,

 

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non-refundable insurance fee ranging from Won 10,000 to Won 20,000. KTF conducts the screening process for new subscribers with great caution. A potential subscriber must meet all internal credit criteria before receiving PCS service. The procedure includes checking the history of non-payment and credit information from banks and credit agencies such as the National Information and Credit Evaluation Corporation. Applicants who do not meet the minimum criteria can only subscribe to the PCS service by using a pre-paid card.

 

Data Communication Service

 

Our data communication service involves offering exclusive lines that allow point-to-point connection for voice and data traffic between two or more geographically separate points. As of December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, we leased 426,633 lines, 410,073 lines and 400,287 lines to domestic businesses, including 102 international leased lines on December 31, 2006. The data communication service accounted for 5.1% of our operating revenues in 2006.

 

Satellite Services

 

We currently have two telecommunications satellites in operation, Koreasat 3 and Koreasat 5. Satellite services accounted for 0.6% of our operating revenues in 2006.

 

We launched Koreasat 3 in September 1999. Koreasat 3 carries 33 transponders. Among the transponders reserved for telecommunications, nine are reserved for direct-to-home satellite broadcasting, 15 are used for telecommunication operations and six are used for broadcasting. The remaining three transponders are used for ultra-high-speed communications pilot projects for sparsely populated areas. All six broadcast transponders and nine direct-to-home satellite broadcasting transponders are currently utilized by Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Inc. The expected orbital life of Koreasat 3 is approximately 15 years.

 

We launched Koreasat 5 in August 2006, which replaced Koreasat 2. Koreasat 5 is a telecommunication satellite with 24 transponders, of which twelve are used for domestic satellite telecommunication services as a replacement for Koreasat 2 and the remaining twelve are used for domestic or Asia-Pacific regional satellite telecommunication services. The expected orbital life of Koreasat 5 is approximately 15 years.

 

Miscellaneous Services

 

We provide various services that extend beyond telephone services and data communications services, including:

 

   

information technology and network services; and

 

   

services provided by KTH.

 

Our miscellaneous services accounted for 4.8% of our operating revenues for 2006.

 

Information Technology and Network Services. We offer a broad array of integrated information technology and network services to our business customers. Our range of services include consulting, designing, building and maintaining systems and communication networks that satisfy individual needs of our customers in the public and the private sector.

 

KTH. KTH is a consolidated subsidiary in which we owned a 65.9% interest as of December 31, 2006, and its services include operating paran.com (formerly hanmir.com) portal site and developing on-line contents including on-line games and video-on-demand. In December 2003, we transferred hanmir.com portal site to KTH. KTH plans to focus its efforts on making paran.com portal site compatible for new media environment and strengthening its competitiveness in providing diverse on-line contents.

 

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Revenues and Rates

 

The table below shows the percentage of our revenues derived from each category of services for each of the years from 2004 through 2006:

 

     Year Ended December 31,

 
     2004

    2005

    2006

 

Telephone services:

                  

Local service

   17.4 %   17.0 %   16.2 %

Non-refundable service initiation fees

   0.5     0.4     0.3  

Domestic long-distance service

   5.0     4.5     3.9  

International long-distance service

   2.5     2.4     2.2  

Land-to-mobile interconnection

   10.9     10.0     10.0  
    

 

 

Sub-total

   36.3     34.3     32.6  
    

 

 

Internet services:

                  

Broadband Internet access service

   12.5     12.8     12.1  

Miscellaneous Internet-related services(1)

   2.8     3.2     3.2  
    

 

 

Sub-total

   15.3     16.0     15.3  
    

 

 

PCS service

   28.1     30.5     31.0  

Sales of goods(2)

   10.3     8.8     10.6  

Other services:

                  

Data communications service

   5.6     5.5     5.1  

Satellite service

   0.7     0.7     0.6  

Miscellaneous(3)

   3.7     4.2     4.8  
    

 

 

Sub-total

   10.0     10.4     10.5  
    

 

 

Operating revenues

   100.0 %   100.0 %   100.0 %
    

 

 


(1) Includes revenues from Kornet Internet connection service and services provided by our Internet data centers and Bizmeka.
(2) Includes PCS handset sales.
(3) Includes revenues from information technology and network services and KTH.

 

Telephone Services

 

Local Telephone Service. Our revenues from local telephone service consist primarily of:

 

   

Service initiation fees for new lines;

 

   

Monthly basic charges; and

 

   

Monthly usage charges based on the number of call pulses.

 

All calls are currently measured by call pulses. Each pulse is determined by the duration of the call and the time of the day at which the call is made. For instance, during regular service hours, a call pulse is triggered at the beginning of each local telephone call and every three minutes thereafter.

 

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The rates we charge for local calls are currently subject to approval by the Ministry of Information and Communication after consultation with the Ministry of Finance and Economy. The rates are identical for residential and commercial customers. The following table summarizes our local usage rates as of each date on which rates were revised:

 

     Jan. 1,
1990


   Feb. 10,
1993


   Aug. 1,
1994


   Dec. 1,
1996


   Sept. 1,
1997


   April 15,
2001


   May 1,
2002


Local Usage Charges (per pulse)(1)

                                                

Regular service

   (Won) 25    (Won) 30    (Won) 40    (Won) 41.6    (Won) 45    (Won) 39    (Won) 39

Public telephone

     20      30      40      40      50      50      70

(1) Since January 1, 1990, usage charges for local service in those metropolitan areas subject to measured service have been based on the number of pulses, which are a function of the duration and number of calls, and per pulse rates. Before January 1, 1993, in areas not subject to measured service, a pulse was triggered once for each local telephone call, regardless of the length of the call. Commencing January 1, 1993, measured service applies to all lines in service. A pulse is triggered at the beginning of each local call and every three minutes thereafter from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on weekdays and every 258 seconds thereafter on holidays and from 9:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. on weekdays.

 

Before September 1998, in addition to a non-refundable service initiation fee of Won 8,000 and a monthly basic charge, a customer was required to pay at the time of a telephone service initiation a non-interest-bearing refundable deposit. The deposit ranged from Won 122,000 to Won 242,000 depending on the size of the local calling area in which the phone was installed. In September 1998, we implemented an alternative telephone service initiation charge system that allowed our customers to choose between the original service plan and a second service plan. The charges under each plan were as follows:

 

Rates from September 1998 to April 14, 2001


  

Original Plan


  

Second Plan


Service initiation Deposit (refunded upon termination of service)   

Between Won 122,000 to Won 242,000, depending on location

  

None

Non-refundable Service Initiation Fee   

Won 8,000

  

Won 100,000

Monthly Basic Charge   

Between Won 1,500 to Won 2,500, depending on location

  

Between Won 2,000 to Won 4,000, depending on location

 

Through April 14, 2001, approximately 7.1 million customers switched to or enrolled under the second plan. To each of our customers switching plans, we refunded between Won 30,000 and Won 150,000 of their telephone service initiation deposits while keeping Won 92,000, reflecting the Won 100,000 non-refundable telephone service initiation fee under the second plan minus the Won 8,000 non-refundable service initiation fee paid under the original plan.

 

Starting on April 15, 2001, we implemented a new telephone service initiation charge system. The changes are as follows:

 

Rates Starting April 15, 2001


  

New Plan


Service initiation Deposit (refunded upon termination of service)   

None

Non-refundable Service Initiation Fee   

Won 60,000 (including value added tax)

Monthly Basic Charge   

Between Won 3,000 to Won 5,200, depending on location

 

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All new customers subscribing to our local service on or after April 15, 2001 are enrolled under the new plan. Our existing customers who are enrolled in the original plan may switch to the new plan and receive their service initiation deposit back (less Won 52,000, reflecting the Won 60,000 non-refundable service initiation fee paid under the new plan minus the Won 8,000 non-refundable service initiation fee paid under the original plan). Our existing customers who switched to or enrolled under the second plan cannot switch to the new plan.

 

As of December 31, 2006, we had Won 907 billion of refundable service initiation deposits outstanding and 4,099 thousand subscribers who are enrolled under the original plan and eligible to switch to the new plan and receive their service initiation deposit back (less Won 52,000 as described above). The total refund amount (excluding the non-refundable telephone service initiation fees retained by us) to customers choosing to switch to the new plan or terminate the local telephone service in 2006 amounted to Won 51 billion. As of December 31, 2006, we also had 4,099 thousand subscribers who are enrolled under the second plan and 16,231 thousand subscribers who are enrolled under the new plan.

 

Domestic Long-distance Telephone Service. Our revenues from domestic long-distance service consist of charges for calls placed, charged for the duration, time of day and day of the week a call is placed, and the distance covered by the call. Since January 1998, we have been setting our own rates for domestic long-distance service without approval from the Ministry of Information and Communication.

 

The following table summarizes our domestic long-distance rates as of each date on which rates were revised. These charges do not reflect discounts applicable to calls made during off-peak hours or holidays.

 

     Date of Rate Change(1)

     May 1,
1991


   Feb. 10,
1993


   Aug. 1,
1994


   Dec. 1,
1996


   Sept. 1,
1997


   Dec. 1,
2000


   April 15,
2001


   Nov. 1,
2001


Domestic Long-Distance Charges

(per three minutes)(1)(2)

                                                       

Up to 30 km

   (Won) 100    (Won) 100    (Won) 40    (Won) 41.6    (Won) 45    (Won) 45    (Won) 39    (Won) 39

Up to 100 km

     391      360      200      182      172      192      192      261

100 km or longer

     900      675      313      277      245      252      252      261

(1) Domestic long-distance calls of up to 30 kilometers are billed on the same basis as local calls. Before April 15, 2001, for domestic long-distance calls in excess of 30 kilometers, a pulse was triggered at the beginning of each call and every 47 seconds for calls up to 100 kilometers or every 33 seconds for calls in excess of 100 kilometers. Commencing April 15, 2001, a pulse was triggered at the beginning of each call and every 30 seconds thereafter. Commencing November 1, 2001, a pulse is triggered at the beginning of each call and every 10 seconds thereafter.
(2) Rates for domestic long-distance calls in excess of 30 kilometers are currently discounted (by an adjustment in the period between pulses) by 10% on holidays and from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. on weekdays, and by 30% from midnight to 6:00 a.m. everyday.

 

From September 10, 2002 to December 9, 2002, with the approval from the Ministry of Information and Communication, we also offered an optional flat rate plan for our fixed-line telephone service subscribers who had been our customers since August 1, 2001. Under the optional plan, a subscriber who elected to pay the monthly average of local and domestic long-distance usage amounts previously paid by such subscriber from August 1, 2001 to July 31, 2002 plus an extra monthly charge of Won 1,000 to Won 5,000 each month (depending on average usage amount) is able to make unlimited minutes of local and domestic long-distance calls for up to 12 months from the election date. We obtained an approval from the Ministry of Information and Communication to extend the optional flat rate plan for those subscribers who had previously elected to participate.

 

We also began offering a second optional flat rate plan starting September 1, 2006. Under this optional plan, a subscriber who elects to pay the monthly average of the past six months of local and domestic long-distance usage amounts plus an extra monthly change of Won 500 is able to make free local and domestic long-distance

 

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calls up to twice the historical minutes. A subscriber who elects to pay an extra monthly charge of Won 1,000 is able to make free calls up to three times the historical minutes. Usage minutes exceeding these free amounts are charged at a 50.0% discount.

 

International Long-distance Service. Our revenues from international long-distance service consist of:

 

   

amounts we bill to customers for outgoing calls made to foreign countries (including customers who make calls to Korea from foreign countries under our home country direct-dial service);

 

   

amounts we bill to foreign telecommunications carriers and administrations for connection to the Korean telephone network in respect of incoming calls (including calls placed in Korea by customers of the foreign carriers for home country direct-dial service); and

 

   

other revenues, including revenues from international calls placed from public telephones.

 

We bill outgoing calls made by customers in Korea (and calls made to Korea from foreign countries under our home country direct-dial service) in accordance with our international long-distance rate schedule for the country called. These rates vary depending on the time of day at which a call is placed. We bill outgoing international calls on the basis of one-second increments. Since January 1998, we have been setting our own rates for international long-distance service without approval from the Ministry of Information and Communication.

 

For incoming calls (including calls placed in Korea by customers of the foreign carriers for home country direct-dial service), we receive settlement payments from the relevant foreign carrier or administration at the applicable settlement rate specified under the agreement with the foreign entity. We have entered into numerous bilateral agreements with foreign carriers and administrations. We negotiate the settlement rates under these agreements with each foreign carrier, subject to Ministry of Information and Communication approval. It is the practice among international carriers for the carrier in the country in which the call is billed to collect payments due in respect of the use of overseas networks. Although we record the gross amounts due to and from us in our consolidated financial statements, we make settlements with most carriers quarterly on a net basis.

 

Interconnection. We provide other telecommunications service providers, including mobile operators and other fixed-line operators, interconnection to our fixed-line network.

 

Land-to-mobile Interconnection. For a call initiated by a landline user to a mobile service subscriber, we collect from the landline user the land-to-mobile usage charge and remit to the mobile service provider a land-to-mobile interconnection charge. The Ministry of Information and Communication periodically issues orders setting the interconnection charge calculation method applicable to interconnections with mobile service providers.

 

In 2003, in addition to taking the actual costs of carrying a call of SK Telecom, the Ministry of Information and Communication took into consideration additional factors including the call volume of each mobile service provider in determining interconnection charges. Starting in 2004, the Ministry of Information and Communication determines the land-to-mobile interconnection charge by calculating the long-run incremental cost of mobile service providers, taking into consideration technology development and future expected costs.

 

The following table shows the interconnection charges we paid per minute (exclusive of value-added taxes) to cellular and PCS operators for landline to mobile calls. The Ministry of Information and Communication announced new rates of interconnection charges we pay for 2006 and 2007 in September 2006.

 

     Effective Starting

     January 1, 2003

   January 1, 2004

   January 1, 2005

   January 1, 2006

   January 1, 2007

SK Telecom

   (Won) 41.0    (Won) 31.8    (Won) 31.2    (Won) 33.1    (Won) 32.8

KTF(1)

     48.0      47.7      46.7      40.1      39.6

LG Telecom

     52.9      58.5      55.0      47.0      45.1

(1) Eliminated in consolidation of financial statements.

 

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The following table shows the usage charge per minute collected from a landline user for a call initiated by a landline user to a mobile service subscriber.

 

     Effective Starting

     May 1,
2002


   July 1,
2003


   September 1,
2004


Weekday

   (Won) 93.8    (Won) 89.0    (Won) 87.0

Weekend

     88.9      84.0      82.0

Evening(1)

     83.9      79.2      77.2

(1) Evening rates are applicable from 12:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. everyday.

 

The charges above have been agreed among the parties involved and confirmed by the Ministry of Information and Communication. In order to compensate for the lack of decrease in the base usage charge in the first half of 2003, we agreed with the Ministry of Information and Communication to offer to landline users six minutes of free calls per month from July 2003 to December 2003 for calls initiated by a landline user to a mobile service subscriber. Landline users are offered five minutes of free calls per month from September 2004 to November 2005 for calls initiated by a landline user to a mobile service subscriber in order to compensate for the lack of decrease in the base usage charge from January 2004 to August 2004.

 

We recognize as land-to-mobile interconnection revenue the entire amount of the usage charge collected from the landline user and recognize as expense the amount of interconnection charge paid to the mobile service provider.

 

Land-to-land and Mobile-to-land Interconnection. For a call initiated by a landline subscriber of our competitor to our fixed-line user, the landline service provider collects from its subscriber its normal rate and remits to us a land-to-land interconnection charge. In addition, for a call initiated by a mobile service subscriber to our landline user, the mobile service provider collects from its subscriber its normal rate and remits to us a mobile-to-land interconnection charge. The following table shows such interconnection charge per minute collected for a call depending on the type of call, as determined by the Ministry of Information and Communication.

 

     Effective Starting

     January 1,
2002


   January 1,
2003


   January 1,
2004


   January 1,
2005


   January 1,
2006


   January 1,
2007


Local access(1)

   (Won) 12.7    (Won) 11.3    (Won) 16.2    (Won) 16.5    (Won) 16.6    (Won) 17.3

Single toll access(2)

     16.2      14.9      17.8      18.1      18.2      19.0

Double toll access(3)

     20.3      19.0      20.5      20.8      19.9      20.7

Source: The Ministry of Information and Communication.
(1) Interconnection between local switching center and local access line.
(2) Interconnection involving access to single long-distance switching center.
(3) Interconnection involving access to two long-distance switching centers.

 

Internet Services

 

Broadband Internet Access Service. We offer broadband Internet access service that primarily uses existing telephone lines to provide both voice and data transmission. We charge customers of broadband Internet service on a monthly fixed charges. In addition, we charge customers a one time installation fee per site of Won 30,000 and modem rental fee ranging from Won 3,000 to Won 8,000 on a monthly fixed basis. We waive the installation fee if our customers agree to subscribe to our broadband Internet access service for at least one year. The rates we charge for broadband Internet access service are subject to approval by the Ministry of Information and Communication.

 

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The following table summarizes our charges for various broadband Internet services as of April 5, 2007:

 

     Maximum Speed

    Monthly Fee(1)

Megapass Special

   100 Mbps   (Won) 40,000

Megapass Premium

   50       33,000

Megapass Lite

   10       30,000

Megapass Ntopia

   100       36,000

WiBro Slim(2)

   3       10,000

WiBro Basic(3)

   3       20,000

WiBro Special(4)

   3       30,000

WiBro Premium(5)

   3       40,000

(1) We provide discounts of up to 15.0% for mandatory subscription periods ranging from one to three years, with the exception of Megapass Ntopia, for which we provide discounts of up to 20.0% for mandatory subscription periods ranging from one to four years.
(2) We charge a monthly fee of Won 10,000 for up to 500 megabytes of data transmission and Won 50 per megabyte for any additional data transmission in excess of 500 megabytes per month.
(3) We charge a monthly fee of Won 20,000 for up to 2,000 megabytes of data transmission and Won 25 per megabyte for any additional data transmission in excess of 2,000 megabytes per month.
(4) We charge a monthly fee of Won 30,000 for up to 4,000 megabytes of data transmission and Won 10 per megabyte for any additional data transmission in excess of 4,000 megabytes per month.
(5) We charge a monthly fee of Won 40,000 for up to 6,000 megabytes of data transmission and Won 7 per megabyte for any additional data transmission in excess of 6,000 megabytes per month.

 

We are offering a special promotional discount for subscribers of WiBro until December 31, 2007, in which subscribers may use our WiBro service until March 31, 2008 for a monthly fee of Won 10,000 for up to 1,000 megabytes of data transmission and Won 25 per megabyte for any additional data transmission in excess of 1,000 megabytes per month, or elect to pay a monthly fee of Won 19,800 and enjoy unlimited data transmission.

 

PCS Service and PCS Handset Sales

 

Our operating revenues from PCS service and PCS handset sales are generated through our consolidated subsidiary KTF and our PCS resale service. We derive revenues from PCS service principally from:

 

   

initial subscription fees;

 

   

monthly access fees;

 

   

usage charges for outgoing calls;

 

   

usage charges for wireless data transmission; and

 

   

value-added monthly service fees.

 

KTF may set these fees and charges, including any promotional rates, without approval from the Ministry of Information and Communication. Like all Korean mobile service providers, KTF does not charge its customers for incoming calls. Instead, KTF receives interconnection charges from us for calls initiated from our fixed-line network to its PCS network (which are eliminated in consolidation) and interconnection charges from other mobile and fixed-line service operators for calls initiated by their subscribers.

 

Although KTF provides various rate plans, 31.9% of its subscribers are enrolled in the standard rate plan as of December 31, 2006. Under the standard rate plan, KTF charges an initial subscription fee of Won 30,000, monthly access fee of Won 13,000 and usage charges of Won 18 per ten seconds. KTF’s other rate plans include those that offer a specified number of free airtime minutes per month in return for a higher monthly access fee and those that are geared toward business customers. Our competitors also offer similar plans.

 

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In order to promote its PCS services, KTF acquires PCS handsets in bulk for resale to its subscribers. Until March 26, 2006, KTF and its competitors were restricted from selling handsets to subscribers at prices below the prices at which they purchased the handsets from manufacturers, except in cases of certain PDA phones and W-CDMA phones. Starting on March 27, 2006, the Ministry of Information and Communication has allowed mobile service providers to grant subsidies to subscribers who purchase new handsets. KTF currently provides subsidies between Won 80,000 to Won 300,000 to subscribers for purchase of PCS handsets if they meet certain minimum subscription and billing requirements.

 

Data Communication Service

 

We charge customers of domestic leased-lines on a monthly fixed-cost basis based on the distance of the leased line, the capacity of the line measured in bits per second (“bps”), the type of line provided and whether the service site is local or long-distance. In addition, we charge customers a one-time installation fee per site ranging from Won 56,000 to Won 1,940,000 depending on the capacity of the line.

 

Competition

 

Under the Telecommunications Basic Law and the Telecommunications Business Act, telecommunications service providers in Korea are currently classified into network service providers, value-added service providers and specific service providers. See “—Regulation.”

 

Network Service Providers

 

All network service providers in Korea are permitted to set the rates for international or domestic long-distance services on their own without Ministry of Information and Communication approval. Many of our competitors have set their rates lower than ours. Currently, we can compete freely with other providers on the basis of rates in all services except for rates we charge for local calls and broadband Internet access service, which require advance approval from the Ministry of Information and Communication. In all service areas, we compete by endeavoring to provide superior customer service and superior technical quality, taking advantage of our broad customer base and our ability to provide various telecommunication services.

 

We and SK Telecom have been designated as market-dominating business entities in the respective markets under the Telecommunications Business Act. Under this Act, a market-dominating business entity may not engage in any act of abuse, such as unreasonably interfering with business activities of other business entities, hindering unfairly the entry of newcomers or substantially restricting competition to the detriment of the interests of consumers. The Ministry of Information and Communication has also issued guidelines on fair competition of the telecommunications companies. If any telecommunications service provider breaches the guidelines, the Ministry of Information and Communication may take necessary corrective measures against it after a hearing at which the service provider may defend its action.

 

Local Telephone Service. We compete with Hanaro and LG DACOM in the local telephone service business. Hanaro began providing local telephone service in 1999, followed by LG DACOM in 2004. In addition, the mobile services provided by SK Telecom and the PCS service providers have had a material adverse effect on KT Corporation in terms of our revenues from fixed-line telephone services. We expect this trend to continue. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Item 5.A. Operating Results—Telephone Service Revenues.”

 

In recent years, the Ministry of Information and Communication has completed nationwide implementation of local number portability allowing local fixed-line telephone service subscribers to choose a competing local telephone service provider while retaining the same phone number. The gradual implementation of local number portability began in March 2003 and was completed in August 2004. Local number portability may enable Hanaro and LG DACOM to compete more effectively for our existing customers. As of December 31, 2006,

 

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approximately 352 thousand of our subscribers switched to our competitors, and approximately 187 thousand subscribers of our competitors switched to us. The following table shows the market share in the local telephone service market in terms of number of subscribers estimated by us as of December 31, 2006:

 

     Market Share (%)

     KT Corporation

   Hanaro

   LG DACOM

December 31, 2004

   93.8    6.2    —  

December 31, 2005

   93.2    6.6    0.2

December 31, 2006

   92.1    7.5    0.4

Source: KT Corporation.

 

Although the local usage charge of our competitors and us is the same at Won 39 per pulse (generally three minutes), our competitors’ non-refundable telephone service initiation charge and basic monthly charge are lower than ours. Our customers pay a non-refundable telephone service initiation charge of Won 60,000 and basic monthly charge of up to Won 5,200, depending on location. On the other hand, customers of our competitors pay a non-refundable telephone service initiation charge of Won 30,000 and a basic monthly charge of up to Won 4,500 depending on location.

 

Domestic Long-distance Telephone Service. We compete with LG DACOM, Onse, Hanaro and SK Telink in the domestic long-distance market. LG DACOM began offering domestic long-distance service in 1996, followed by Onse in 1999 and Hanaro and SK Telink in 2004. The following table shows the market shares in the domestic long-distance market in terms of revenues estimated by us for the years indicated:

 

     Market Share (%)

     KT Corporation

   LG DACOM

   Hanaro

   Onse

   SK Telink

2004

   86.9    6.8    2.8    3.4    —  

2005

   85.4    6.1    4.8    2.7    1.0

2006

   85.6    4.8    6.1    2.1    1.4

Source: KT Corporation.

 

Our competitors and we charge Won 39 per three minutes for domestic long-distance calls up to 30 kilometers. For domestic long-distance calls greater than 30 kilometers, our competitors charge between 2.7% to 5.0% less than us. The following table is a comparison of our standard long-distance usage charges per three minutes with the standard rates of our competitors as of December 31, 2006:

 

     KT Corporation

   LG DACOM

   Onse

   Hanaro

   SK Telink

Up to 30 kilometers

   (Won) 39    (Won) 39    (Won) 39    (Won) 39    (Won) 39

30 kilometers or longer

     261      254      248      251      249

Source: KT Corporation.

 

International Long-Distance Telephone Service. Three companies, LG DACOM, Onse and Hanaro, directly compete with us in the international long-distance market. LG DACOM began offering international long-distance service in 1991, followed by Onse in 1997 and Hanaro in 2004. SK Telink, which only provides Internet phone service, entered the international long-distance market in 2003 and offers its services at rates lower than those of network-based international long-distance telephone services. The entry of Internet phone service providers and other telecommunications service providers, such as voice resellers, that can offer telecommunications services at rates lower than ours has increased competition in the international long-distance market and adversely affected our revenues and profitability from international long-distance services. See “—Specific Service Providers.”

 

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Our competitors generally charge less than us for international long-distance calls. The following table is a comparison of our standard long-distance usage charges per one minute with the standard rates of our competitors as of December 31, 2006:

 

     KT Corporation

   LG DACOM

   Onse

   Hanaro

United States

   (Won) 282    (Won) 288    (Won) 276    (Won) 156

Japan

     696      678      682      384

China

     990      996      984      780

Australia

     1,086      1,086      1,044      528

Great Britain

     1,008      996      966      498

Germany

     948      942      912      402

Source: KT Corporation.

 

Broadband Internet Access Service. The Korean broadband Internet access market has experienced significant growth since Korea Thrunet first introduced its HFC-based service in 1998. Hanaro Telecom entered the broadband market in 1999 offering both HFC and ADSL services, and we entered the market with our ADSL services in 1999, followed by Dreamline, Onse and LG DACOM. In addition, the entry of cable television providers that offer HFC-based broadband Internet access services at rates lower than ours has increased competition in the broadband Internet access market. We expect industry consolidation among our competitors in the near future, and smaller competitors in the broadband market today may become larger competitors. For example, Hanaro merged with Korea Thrunet in January 2006.

 

The following table shows the market share in the broadband Internet access market in terms of number of subscribers estimated by us as of the dates indicated:

 

     Market Share (%)

     KT Corporation

   Hanaro

   Others

December 31, 2004

   51.0    23.1    25.9

December 31, 2005

   51.2    22.7    26.1

December 31, 2006

   45.2    25.7    29.1

Source: KT Corporation.

 

Our competitors generally charge less than us for broadband Internet access service. The following table is a comparison of fees for our Megapass Lite service with three year mandatory subscription period with fees of our competitors for comparable services as of December 31, 2006:

 

     KT Corporation

   Hanaro

   Cable Providers(1)

Monthly subscription fee

   (Won) 25,500    (Won) 25,200    (Won) 18,000

Monthly modem rental fee

     3,000      3,000      5,000

Initial installation fee

     None      None      30,000

Additional installation fee upon moving

     10,000      18,000      10,000

Source: KT Corporation.
(1) These are fees typically charged by cable providers.

 

PCS Service. Competition in the mobile telecommunications industry in Korea is intense among cellular service provider SK Telecom and PCS service providers KTF and LG Telecom. Such competition intensified in recent years due to the implementation of mobile number portability, which enables mobile subscribers to switch their service provider while retaining the same mobile phone number, as well as payments of handset subsidies to purchasers of new handsets.

 

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The following table shows the market share in the mobile telecommunications market in terms of number of subscribers announced by the Ministry of Information and Communication as of the dates indicated:

 

     Market Share (%)

     KTF

   SK Telecom

   LG Telecom

December 31, 2004

   32.1    51.3    16.6

December 31, 2005

   32.1    50.9    17.0

December 31, 2006

   32.1    50.4    17.4

Source: KTF.

 

The following table is a comparison of the standard rate plan of KTF with the standard rate plans of its competitors as of December 31, 2006:

 

     KTF

   SK Telecom

   LG Telecom

Type of service

     PCS      Cellular      PCS

Monthly access fee

   (Won) 13,000    (Won) 13,000    (Won) 12,000

Usage charge per 10 seconds

     18      20      18

Source: KTF.

 

Data Communication Service. We had a monopoly in domestic data communication service until 1994, when LG DACOM was authorized to provide the leased-line service.

 

Value-Added Service Providers

 

Value-added service providers may commence operations following filing of a report to the Ministry of Information and Communication. The scope of business of a value-added service provider includes specific value-added telecommunications activities (other than services reserved for network service providers), such as data communications utilizing telecommunications facilities leased from network service providers.

 

Specific Service Providers

 

Specific service providers, such as Internet phone service providers and voice resellers, started operations in Korea in 1998. We began providing Internet phone service for international long-distance calls in May 1998. Our Internet phone service also competes with international long-distance services provided by voice resellers who have also seen sharp increases in demand for their services.

 

Foreign Competition

 

Under the multilateral agreement on basic telecommunications services among the members of the WTO, effective November 27, 1997, the Government of Korea agreed to gradually reduce the restrictions on foreign and individual shareholdings in KT Corporation and other network service providers in Korea. Currently, the Telecommunications Business Act limits aggregate ownership of shares with voting rights (including equivalent securities with voting rights, such as depository certificates and certain other equity interests, and all references to “shares with voting rights” include such equivalent securities) in network service providers (including us) by foreign shareholders to 49.0% of issued shares with voting rights. In addition, the Telecommunications Business Act and the Foreign Investment Promotion Act prohibit a foreign shareholder from being our largest shareholder if such shareholder holds 5.0% or more of our shares. See “—Regulation—Foreign Investment.” While the WTO Agreement enables us to seek foreign investors and strategic partners and to more easily take advantage of opportunities for investments in overseas telecommunications projects, it may also benefit our competitors and further intensify competition in the domestic market.

 

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Regulation

 

Under the Telecommunications Basic Law and the Telecommunications Business Act, telecommunications service providers are currently classified into three categories:

 

   

network service providers, such as us, which typically provide telecommunications services with their own telecommunications networks and related facilities. Their services may include local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance telephone services, mobile communications service, paging service and trunked radio system service;

 

   

value-added service providers, which provide telecommunications services other than those services specified for network service providers, such as data communications using telecommunications facilities leased from network service providers; and

 

   

specific service providers, which may occupy a middle ground between network service providers and value-added service providers and are broadly defined by law as telecommunications service providers that provide network services using the telecommunications network facilities or services of network service providers.

 

Under the Telecommunications Basic Law and the Telecommunications Business Act, the Ministry of Information and Communication has comprehensive regulatory authority over the telecommunications industry and all network service providers. The Ministry of Information and Communication’s policy is to promote competition in the Korean telecommunications markets through measures designed to prevent the dominant service provider in any such market from exercising its market power in such a way as to prevent the emergence and development of viable competitors. A network service provider must be licensed by the Ministry of Information and Communication. Our license as a network service provider permits us to engage in a wide range of telecommunications services.

 

The Ministry of Information and Communication has recently announced a “road map” highlighting upcoming revisions in regulations to promote deregulation of the telecommunications industry. The road map includes allowing telecommunications service providers to bundle their services, such as broadband Internet access service, mobile telephone service and fixed-line telephone service, at a discounted rate starting in July 2007, provided that we and SK Telecom, which are designated as market-dominating business entities under the Telecommunications Business Act, allow other competitors to employ the services provided by us and SK Telecom, respectively, so that the competitors can provide similar discounted package services. The road map also includes plans to amend the regulations and provisions under the Telecommunications Business Act by as early as October of this year to permit licensed transmission service providers to offer local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance telephone services, as well as broadband Internet access and Internet phone services, without the need to obtain further approval from the Ministry of Information and Communication. The Ministry of Information and Communication also plans to extend local number portability to Internet phone subscribers, which the ministry expects to implement in 2008.

 

Rates

 

Under current regulations implementing the Telecommunications Business Act, a network service provider may set its rates at its discretion, although it must report to the Ministry of Information and Communication the rates and the general terms and conditions for each type of network service provided by it. There is, however, one exception to this general rule: if a network service provider has the largest market share for a specified type of service and its revenue from that service for the previous year exceeds a specific revenue amount set by the Ministry of Information and Communication, it must obtain prior approval from the Ministry of Information and Communication for the rates and the general terms for that service. Each year the Ministry of Information and Communication designates the service providers and the types of services for which the rates and the general terms must be approved by the Ministry of Information and Communication. In 2006, the Ministry of Information and Communication designated us for local telephone service and broadband Internet access service

 

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and SK Telecom for cellular service. The Ministry of Information and Communication, in consultation with the Ministry of Finance and Economy, is required to approve the rates proposed by a network service provider if (1) the proposed rates are appropriate, fair and reasonable and (2) the calculation method for the rates are appropriate and transparent.

 

Other Activities

 

A network service provider, such as us, must obtain the permission of the Ministry of Information and Communication in order to:

 

   

engage in certain businesses specified in the Presidential Decree under the Telecommunications Business Act, such as telecommunications equipment manufacturing business and telecommunications network construction business;

 

   

change the conditions for its licenses;

 

   

transfer, terminate, suspend or spin off all or a part of the business for which it is licensed;

 

   

acquire all or a part of the business of another network service provider; or

 

   

enter into a merger with another network service provider.

 

A telephone service provider may provide some network services using the equipment it currently has by submitting a report to the Ministry of Information and Communication. The Ministry of Information and Communication can revoke our licenses or order the suspension of any of our businesses if we do not comply with the regulations of the Ministry of Information and Communication under the Telecommunications Business Act. The Ministry of Information and Communication’s responsibilities also include:

 

   

formulating the basic plan for the telecommunications industry;

 

   

preparing periodic reports to the National Assembly of Korea regarding developments in the telecommunications industry;

 

   

setting technical standards for all service providers; and

 

   

promoting technological development and technological standardization.

 

The Ministry of Information and Communication may also recommend to network service providers that they invest a percentage of their total annual revenues in research and development or that they contribute to telecommunications research institutes in Korea. In addition, since January 2000, all network service providers (other than regional paging service providers) are obligated to contribute toward the supply of “universal” telecommunications services in Korea. Telecommunications service providers designated as “universal service providers” by the Ministry of Information and Communication are required to provide universal telecommunications services such as local services, local public telephone services, discount services for persons with disabilities and for certain low-income persons, telecommunications services for remote islands and wireless communication services for ships. We have been designated as a universal service provider. The costs and losses recognized by universal service providers in connection with providing these universal telecommunications services will be shared on an annual basis by all network service providers (other than regional paging service providers), including us, on a pro rata basis based on their respective net annual revenue calculated pursuant to a formula set by the Ministry of Information and Communication.

 

Due to the amendment of the Telecommunication Business Law, effective April 9, 2001, a network service provider must permit other network service providers to co-use wirelines connecting the switching equipment to end-users, upon the request of such other telecommunication service providers. In addition, a network service provider may permit other network service providers to co-use its wireless communication systems upon the request of any of such other network service providers. The compensation method for the co-use must be determined by the Ministry of Information and Communication and be settled, by fair and proper methods.

 

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In addition, starting April 2002, we are required to lease to other companies our fixed-lines that connect subscribers to our network. This system, which is called local loop unbundling, is intended to prevent excessive investment in local loops. This system requires us to lease the portion of our copper lines that represent our excess capacity to other companies upon their request at rates that are determined by the Ministry of Information and Communication based on our cost, and taking into consideration an appropriate rate of return, to enable them to provide voice and broadband services. Revenues from local loop unbundling is recognized as revenues from miscellaneous services.

 

Korea Communications Commission

 

In accordance with the Telecommunications Basic Law, the Korea Communications Commission was established within the Ministry of Information and Communication to:

 

   

promote fair competition in the telecommunications industry;

 

   

protect the rights of telecommunications services users; and

 

   

settle disputes between telecommunications service providers.

 

The Korea Communications Commission is composed of up to nine commissioners recommended by the Minister of Information and Communications and appointed by the President of Korea. The Ministry of Information and Communication has established a working bureau in the Korea Communications Commission to support the work of the Korea Communications Commission.

 

Foreign Investment

 

The Telecommunications Business Act restricts the ownership and control of network service providers by foreign shareholders. Foreigners, foreign governments and “foreign invested companies” may not own more than 49.0% of the issued shares with voting rights of a network service provider, including us, and a foreign shareholder may not become our largest shareholder if such shareholder holds 5.0% or more of our shares. For purposes of the Telecommunications Business Act, the term “foreign invested company” means a company in which foreigners and foreign governments hold 15.0% or more shares with voting rights in the aggregate and a foreigner or a foreign government is the largest shareholder, provided, however, that such company will not be counted as a foreign shareholder for the purposes of the above-referenced 49.0% limit if it holds less than 1.0% of our total issued and outstanding shares with voting rights. As of December 31, 2006, 47.6% of our common shares were owned by foreign investors. In the event that a network service provider violates the shareholding restrictions, its shareholders cannot exercise voting rights for their shares in excess of such limitation, and the Ministry of Information and Communication may require corrective measures be taken to comply with the ownership restrictions. There is no restriction on foreign ownership for specific service providers and value-added service providers.

 

Individual Shareholding Limit

 

The Privatization Law ceased to apply to us in August 2002, and ceiling on individual shareholding specified in the articles of incorporation has been eliminated.

 

Under the Telecommunications Business Act, a foreign shareholder who holds 5.0% or more of our total shares is prohibited from becoming our largest shareholder. However, any foreign shareholder who held 5.0% or more of our total shares and was our largest shareholder on or prior to May 9, 2004 is exempt from the regulations, provided that such foreign shareholder may not acquire any more of our shares. In addition, under the Telecommunications Business Act, the Ministry of Information and Communication may, if it deems it necessary to preserve substantial public interests, prohibit a foreign shareholder from being our largest shareholder. In addition, the Foreign Investment Promotion Act prohibits any foreign shareholder from being our largest shareholder, if such shareholder owns 5.0% or more of our Shares with voting rights. In the event that any foreigner or foreign

 

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government acquires our shares in violation of the above provisions, the Telecommunications Business Act restricts such foreign shareholder from exercising his or her voting rights with respect to common shares exceeding such threshold. The Ministry of Information and Communication may also order us or the foreign shareholder to take corrective measures in respect of the excess shares within a specified period of six months or less.

 

Customers and Customer Billing

 

We typically charge residential subscribers and business subscribers similar rates for services provided. On a case-by-case basis, we also provide discount rates for some of our high-volume business subscribers. We bill all of our customers on a monthly basis. Our customers may make payment at either payment points such as local post offices, banks or our service offices, through a direct-debit service that automatically deducts the monthly payment from a subscriber’s designated bank account, or through a direct-charge service that automatically charges the monthly payment to a subscriber’s designated credit card account. Approximately 73.8% of our subscribers pay through the direct-debit service. Accounts of subscribers who fail to pay our invoice are transferred to a collection agency, which sends out a notice of payment. If such charges are not paid after notice, we cease to provide outgoing service to such subscribers after a period of time determined by the type of subscribed service. If charges are still not paid two to three months after outgoing service is cut off, we cease all services to such subscribers. After service is ceased, the overdue charges that are not collected by the collection agency are written off.

 

Insurance

 

We carry insurance against loss or damage to all significant buildings and automobiles. Except for our insurance coverage of our satellites and Internet data centers, we do not carry insurance covering losses to outside plant or to equipment because we believe the cost of such insurance is excessive and the risk of material loss or damage is insignificant. We do not have any provisions or reserves against such loss or damage.

 

We provide co-location and a variety of value-added services including server-hosting services to a number of corporations whose business largely depends on critical data operated on our servers or on their servers located at our data centers. Any disruptions, interruptions, physical or electronic data loss, delays or slow down in communication connections could expose us to potential liabilities for losses relating to the disrupted businesses of our customers relying on our services.

 

Item 4.C. Organizational Structure

 

These matters are discussed under Item 4.B. where relevant.

 

Item 4.D. Property, Plants and Equipment

 

Our principal fixed asset is our integrated telecommunications network that consists of exchanges and transmission equipment, access lines, backbone network, and PCS network of KTF. In addition, we own buildings and real estate throughout Korea.

 

Our fixed-line equipment vendors and mobile equipment suppliers include well-known international and local suppliers such as Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics, Alcatel-Lucent and Cisco Systems.

 

Exchanges

 

Exchanges include local exchanges and “toll” exchanges that connect local exchanges to long-distance transmission facilities.

 

All of our exchanges are fully automatic. We completed replacement of all electromechanical analog exchanges with digital exchanges in June 2003 in order to provide higher speed and larger volume services. We had 26.8 million lines connected to local exchanges and 2.2 million lines connected to toll exchanges as of December 31, 2006.

 

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Internet Backbone

 

Our Internet backbone network, called KORNET, has the capacity to handle an aggregate traffic of our broadband Internet access subscribers at any given moment of up to 1.54 Tbps as of December 31, 2006. We have set up contingent plans to prepare against various incidents that could affect reliable Internet access service. Starting in 2005, we have also begun deploying our IP premium network, which will enable us to more reliably support digital media services.

 

Access Lines

 

As of December 31, 2006, we had 10.7 million access lines installed, which allow us to reach virtually all homes and businesses in Korea. As part of our broadband deployment strategy, we have upgraded many of our access lines by equipping them with broadband capability using xDSL and FTTH technology. As of December 31, 2006, we had approximately 4.8 million broadband lines with speed of at least 50 Mbps that enable us to deliver high-speed Internet access and multimedia content to our customers.

 

Transmission Network

 

Our domestic fiber network consisted of 212,715 kilometers of fiber as of December 31, 2006. Our network is based on a synchronous digital hierarchy (SDH) architecture, which allows for instantaneous re-routing and reduced failure in the event of a fiber cut. SDH offers better reliability and performance for optical fiber transmission at a lower operating cost. In addition, we have installed dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) equipment. DWDM technology allows the combination of data from multiple signals on an optical fiber by carrying each signal on a separate wavelength, and substantially improving bandwidth efficiency.

 

Our extensive domestic long-distance network is supplemented by our fully digital domestic microwave network, which consists of 56 relay sites.

 

International Network

 

Our international network infrastructure consists of both submarine cables and satellite transmission systems, which link our domestic network directly to 220 telecommunications service providers in 245 international destinations.

 

International calls are routed between Korea and international destinations through our four international switching centers, two of which are located in Seoul, while the other two are located in Daejeon and Busan. Each center had four international gateway switches with a combined simultaneous call capacity of approximately 32,107 calls per second as of December 31, 2006.

 

Telecommunications Satellites

 

In order to supplement the capacity of our cable and microwave networks and enhance our domestic long-distance and broadcasting services, we operate two telecommunications satellites, Koreasat 3 and 5, launched in 1999 and 2006, respectively. The two satellites are due to reach the end of their normal operational lives in 2014 and 2021, respectively. See “—Item 4.B. Business Overview—Our Services—Satellite Services.”

 

PCS Networks

 

PCS network architecture of KTF includes the following components:

 

   

cell sites, which are physical locations equipped with base transceiver stations consisting of transmitters, receivers and other equipment used to communicate through radio channels with subscribers’ mobile telephone handsets within the range of a cell;

 

   

base station controllers, which connect to and control, the base transceiver stations;

 

   

mobile switching centers, which in turn control the base station controllers and the routing of telephone calls; and

 

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transmission lines, which connect the mobile switching centers, base station controllers, base transceiver stations and the public switched telephone network.

 

The following table lists selected information regarding PCS networks of KTF as of December 31, 2006:

 

     CDMA

   W-CDMA

Mobile switching centers

   64    8

Base station controllers

   552    17

Base transceiver stations

   10,334    4,515

Indoor and outdoor repeaters

   66,417    101,863

 

KTF has 20 MHz of bandwidth in the 1,800 MHz spectrum to provide PCS services based on CDMA wireless network standards and another 20 MHz of bandwidth in the 2,000 MHz spectrum to provide IMT-2000 services based on W-CDMA wireless network standards. KTF has also installed an intelligent network on our mobile network infrastructure to provide a wide range of advanced call features and value-added services.

 

International Submarine Cable Networks

 

International traffic is handled by telecommunications satellites and submarine cables. Because of the high cost of laying a submarine cable, the usual practice is for multiple carriers to jointly commission a new cable and share the costs and the capacity. We own interests in several international fiber optic submarine cable networks, including:

 

   

a 20.9% interest in the 1,762-kilometer R-J-K fiber optic submarine cable network connecting Korea, Japan and Russia, activated since January 1995;

 

   

a 2.3% interest in the 12,083-kilometer Asia Pacific Cable Network connecting Korea, Japan and Hong Kong with six Southeast Asian countries and Australia, activated since January 1997;

 

   

a 1.4% interest in the 29,000-kilometer FLAG Europe-Asia network connecting Korea, Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Europe, activated since April 1997;

 

   

a 1.9% interest in the 39,000-kilometer Southeast Asia-Middle East-Western Europe 3 Cable Network linking 34 countries, activated since December 1999;

 

   

a 6.7% interest in the 30,444-kilometer China-U.S. Cable Network linking Korea, China, Japan, Taiwan and the United States, activated since January 2000;

 

   

a 3.6% interest in the 19,000-kilometer Asia Pacific Cable Network 2 connecting Korea, China, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Philippines, Singapore and Malaysia, activated since December 2001; and

 

   

a 20.0% interest in the 500-kilometer Korea-Japan Cable Network linking Korea and Japan, activated since March 2002.

 

We have also invested in 15 other international fiber optic submarine cables around the world.

 

Item 4A. Unresolved Staff Comments

 

We do not have any unresolved comments from the Securities and Exchange Commission staff regarding our periodic reports under the Exchange Act of 1934.

 

Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects

 

Item 5.A. Operating Results

 

Overview

 

We are an integrated provider of telecommunications services. Our principal services include fixed-line telephone services, Internet services including broadband Internet access service, PCS service through our

 

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consolidated subsidiary and data communication service. The principal factors affecting our revenues from these services have been our rates for, and the volume of usage of, these services, as well as the number of subscribers. For information on rates we charge for telephone services, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Item 4.B. Business Overview—Revenues and Rates—Telephone Services.”

 

Historically, our revenues were derived principally from telephone services which consist of local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance services and land-to-mobile interconnection service. In recent years we have been deriving an increasing portion of our operating revenues from Internet services and PCS service.

 

The following table shows, for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2006, our operating revenues, expenses and operating income determined in accordance with Korean GAAP, and each amount as a percentage of consolidated operating revenues.

 

     Year Ended December 31,

 
     2004

    2005

    2006

 
     (In billions
of Won)


   (Percentage
of consolidated
operating
revenues)


    (In billions
of Won)


   (Percentage
of consolidated
operating
revenues)


    (In billions
of Won)


   (Percentage
of consolidated
operating
revenues)


 

Operating revenues:

                                       

Telephone services:

                                       

Local service

   (Won) 2,975    17.4 %   (Won) 2,918    17.0 %   (Won) 2,885    16.2 %

Non-refundable service installation fees

     79    0.5       70    0.4       46    0.3  

Domestic long-distance service

     854    5.0       766    4.5       701    3.9  

International long-distance service

     420    2.5       407    2.4       383    2.2  

Land-to-mobile interconnection

     1,861    10.9       1,715    10.0       1,765    10.0  
    

  

 

  

 

  

Sub-total

     6,189    36.3       5,876    34.3       5,780    32.6  
    

  

 

  

 

  

Internet services:

                                       

Broadband Internet access service

     2,135    12.5       2,204    12.8       2,149    12.1  

Miscellaneous Internet-related services

     472    2.8       557    3.2       568    3.2  
    

  

 

  

 

  

Sub-total

     2,607    15.3       2,761    16.0       2,717    15.3  
    

  

 

  

 

  

PCS service

     4,800    28.1       5,227    30.5       5,496    31.0  

Sale of goods

     1,755    10.3       1,511    8.8       1,889    10.6  

Others:

                                       

Data communication service

     963    5.6       945    5.5       903    5.1  

Satellite service

     119    0.7       114    0.7       110    0.6  

Miscellaneous(1)

     636    3.7       721    4.2       861    4.8  
    

  

 

  

 

  

Sub-total

     1,718    10.0       1,780    10.4       1,874    10.5  
    

  

 

  

 

  

Total operating revenues

     17,068    100.0       17,156    100.0       17,756    100.0  
    

  

 

  

 

  

Operating expenses:

                                       

Salaries and related costs

     2,737    16.0       3,046    17.8       2,993    16.9  

Depreciation and amortization

     3,720    21.8       3,557    20.7       3,557    20.0  

Other operating and maintenance(2)

     8,131    47.6       8,122    47.3       8,827    49.7  
    

  

 

  

 

  

Total operating expenses

     14,588    85.5       14,725    85.8       15,377    86.6  
    

  

 

  

 

  

Operating income

     2,481    14.5       2,431    14.2       2,379    13.4  

 

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(1) Includes revenues from information technology and network services and KTH.
(2) For a breakdown of other operating and maintenance expenses, see “—Item 5.A. Operating Results—Other Operating and Maintenance Expenses.”

 

We have two reportable operating segments—a wireline communications segment and a PCS services segment. Wireline communications include all services provided to fixed line customers, including Internet access services, data communication services, leased line services and telephone services. PCS services include both PCS service and IMT-2000 service. The operations of all other entities which fall below the reporting thresholds are included in the “Miscellaneous” segment, and include entities providing, among others, submarine cable construction and group telephone management.

 

One of the major factors contributing to our historical performance was the growth of the Korean economy, and our future performance will depend at least in part on Korea’s general economic growth and prospects. For a description of recent developments that have had and may continue to have an adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition, see “Item 3. Key Information—Item 3.D. Risk Factors—Korea is our most important market, and our current business and future growth could be materially and adversely affected if economic conditions in Korea deteriorate.” A number of other developments have had or are expected to have a material impact on our results of operations, financial condition and capital expenditures. These developments include:

 

   

developing and implementing IMT-2000 services;

 

   

changes in the rate structure for local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance telephone services;

 

   

fines imposed by the Fair Trade Commission;

 

   

developing and launching WiBro service; and

 

   

deployment of FTTH.

 

As a result of these factors, our financial results in the past may not be indicative of future results or trends in those results.

 

Developing and Implementing IMT-2000 Services

 

We acquired the right to purchase one of three licenses to provide IMT-2000 services on December 15, 2000, as a member of a consortium of companies including KT Corporation and KTF. In March 2001, KT ICOM, a company created by the consortium to offer IMT-2000 services, paid half of the Won 1.3 trillion license fee payable to the Ministry of Information and Communication. KTF, which subsequently merged with KT ICOM, is currently obligated to pay the remaining Won 650 billion over a period of five years starting in 2007 as follows: Won 90 billion in 2007, Won 110 billion in 2008, Won 130 billion in 2009, Won 150 billion in 2010 and Won 170 billion in 2011. This payable accrues interest at the applicable three-year Government bond interest rate minus 0.75%. The accrued interest is paid on an annual basis to the Ministry of Information and Communication.

 

IMT-2000 presents risks and challenges to our business, any or all of which if realized or not addressed may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. We expect KTF to leverage its existing PCS network and 2.5-generation technology to minimize its capital expenditures and other costs related to developing IMT-2000 services. However, we believe KTF will still require significant amounts of research and development and capital expenditures to expand its IMT-2000 network and develop IMT-2000 related services. KTF expanded its coverage area of HSDPA-based IMT-2000 services to 84 cities in December 2006 and nationwide in March 2007, and SK Telecom is expected to launch a competing IMT-2000 service in the near future. KTF’s HSDPA-based IMT-2000 services may not be commercially successful if there are unfavorable market conditions or weak service demand.

 

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Changes in the Rate Structure for Local and Domestic Long-distance Telephone Services

 

Periodically, we change our rate structure for fixed-line telephone services. In order to mitigate the impact from lower usage charges of local and domestic long-distance calls, we have increased our basic monthly charges and began offering optional flat rate plans for our fixed-line subscribers. Such adjustments in the rate structure have had a positive effect on our financial condition by increasing the portion of fixed income and stabilizing our cash flow. In addition, because the growing use of mobile telecommunications services has decreased the usage of our fixed-line telephone services, we believe we are able to maximize our revenues from fixed-line telephone services by adjusting the rate structure so as to increase our basic monthly charges. For a discussion of adjustments in our rate structure, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Item 4.B. Business Overview—Revenues and Rates—Telephone Services.”

 

Fines for Unfair Collaborative Practices Imposed by the Fair Trade Commission

 

In July 2004, the Fair Trade Commission began an antitrust investigation into alleged unfair collaborative practices of us, Hanaro, LG DACOM and Onse in local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance telephone service markets, as well as in broadband Internet access and Internet leased line service markets. On May 25, 2005, the Fair Trade Commission imposed a fine of Won 116 billion on us, claiming that we engaged in unfair collaborative practices in local telephone and Internet leased line service markets. On September 14, 2005, the Fair Trade Commission imposed an additional fine of Won 24 billion on us for our alleged unfair collaborative practices in domestic and international long-distance telephone service markets. We filed for judicial review of administrative action, but we cannot give any assurance that the ultimate outcome of the lawsuit or related future actions will be favorable to us or reduce the amount of fine imposed on us. As a result of the ruling by the Fair Trade Commission, we recorded Won 140 billion as taxes and dues under operating expenses in 2005 and paid such amount in 2006. There is a possibility that we may also face class action from our shareholders under class action-related laws or individual lawsuits from some of our customers stemming from the rulings by the Fair Trade Commission, and we cannot provide any assurance that the ultimate outcome of any such lawsuits will be favorable to us or that they will not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. See “Item 8. Financial Information—Item 8.A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.”

 

Developing and Launching WiBro Service

 

In March 2005, we acquired a license to provide wireless broadband Internet access service for Won 126 billion. We conducted trial service of WiBro service in parts of Seoul and Gyunggi Province starting in April 2006 and commercially launched our service in these areas in June 2006. We expanded the service to all of metropolitan Seoul and select universities in Gyunggi Province in April 2007 and we plan to gradually further expand the service to other major cities in Korea, subject to market demand. WiBro enables two-way wireless broadband Internet access to portable computers, mobile phones and other portable devices at a speed averaging 1 Mbps per user. A subscriber is able to access the WiBro network during transit up to 120 kilometers per hour. We positioned WiBro to provide IP-based triple-play services, which are voice, data and video. We are planning to spend approximately Won 240 billion in capital expenditures in 2007 to expand our WiBro network, which we may adjust after periodic assessments.

 

Upgrading of Broadband Network to FTTH

 

FTTH is a telecommunication architecture in which a communication path is provided over optical fiber cables extending from the telecommunications operator’s switching equipment to the boundary of home or office. Unlike xDSL technology that uses copper wire to deliver information, FTTH uses fiber optic cable, which is able to carry a high-bandwidth signal for longer distances without degradation. FTTH is expected to enable us to deliver enhanced products and services that require high bandwidth, such as Internet television service and delivery of other digital media content. We are planning to spend approximately Won 1.2 trillion in capital expenditures by 2010 to upgrade our broadband network to FTTH, which we may adjust after periodic assessments.

 

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Critical Accounting Policies

 

The following discussion and analysis is based on our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with Korean GAAP. Korean GAAP varies in certain significant respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. We have summarized these differences and their effect on our stockholders’ equity as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 and the results of our operations for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2006, in Note 35 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with Korean GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and revenues and expenses during the years reported. We based our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. On an on-going basis, management evaluates its estimates. Actual results may differ from those estimates under different assumptions and conditions.

 

The fundamental objective of financial reporting is to provide useful information that allows a reader to comprehend our business activities. To aid in that understanding, our management has identified “critical accounting estimates.” These estimates have the potential to have a more significant impact on our financial statements, either because of the significance of the financial statement item to which they relate, or because they require judgment and estimation due to the uncertainty involved in measuring, at a specific point in time, events which are continuous in nature.

 

These critical accounting estimates include:

 

   

allowances for doubtful accounts;

 

   

useful lives of property, plant and equipment;

 

   

impairment of long-lived assets, including the IMT-2000 frequency usage right;

 

   

impairment of investment securities; and

 

   

income taxes

 

Allowances for doubtful accounts

 

Allowance for doubtful accounts is our best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in our existing notes and accounts receivable. We determine the allowance for doubtful notes and accounts receivable based on an analysis of portfolio quality and historical write-off experience. Account balances are charged off against the allowance when all means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote. Our past experience shows that the possibility of collection is remote after three years of collection effort.

 

Changes in the allowances for doubtful accounts for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

     2004

    2005

    2006

 
     (In millions of Won)  

Balance at beginning of year

   (Won) 646,273     (Won) 702,635     (Won) 613,873  

Provision

     287,073       120,048       111,285  

Write-offs

     (230,711 )     (208,810 )     (161,994 )
    


 


 


Balance at end of year

   (Won) 702,635     (Won) 613,873     (Won) 563,164  
    


 


 


 

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If economic or specific industry trends change, we would adjust our allowances for doubtful accounts by recording additional expense or benefit. Our study shows that a 5.0% decrease or increase in the historical write-off experience would increase or decrease the provision for doubtful accounts by approximately Won 54 billion as of December 31, 2006.

 

Useful lives of property, plant and equipment

 

Property, plant and equipment are depreciated based on the useful lives disclosed in Note 2(h) to the Consolidated Financial Statements. Generally, the useful lives are estimated at the time the asset is acquired and are based on historical experience with similar assets as well as taking into account anticipated technological or other changes. In certain cases and as permitted under Korean GAAP, those useful lives used for accounting purpose are different from the estimated economic lives of the related asset. In addition, the estimated lives of certain other assets, including underground access to cable tunnels, and concrete and steel telephone poles are based on rates established by a ruling by the Korean National Tax Service (which is also applicable under Korean GAAP). If technological changes were to occur more rapidly than anticipated or in a different form than anticipated, the useful lives assigned to these assets may need to be shortened, resulting in the recognition of increased depreciation expense in future periods. For example, effective January 1, 2005, we reduced the useful life of modems from six years to three years as a result of rapid technology development. Such adjustment increased our depreciation expense by approximately Won 59 billion in 2005 and Won 57 billion in 2006, as compared to amount which would have been reported using the previous useful life. A decrease of remaining estimated useful life by one year of our property, plant and equipment would result in an increase of depreciation expense of approximately Won 353 billion in 2006.

 

Impairment of long-lived assets including the IMT-2000 frequency usage right

 

Long-lived assets generally consist of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets. We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. In addition, we evaluate our long-lived assets for impairment each year as part of our annual forecasting process. An impairment loss would be considered when estimated undiscounted future net cash flow expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition are less than its carrying amount. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets.

 

Our intangible assets include the IMT-2000 frequency usage right, which has a contractual life of 15 years and is amortized from the date commercial service is initiated through the end of its contractual life, which is December 15, 2015. We started to amortize this frequency usage right on December 1, 2003. Because IMT-2000 presents risks and challenges to our business, any or all of which, if realized or not properly addressed, may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations, we review the IMT-2000 frequency usage right for impairment on an annual basis. In connection with our review, we utilize the estimated long-term revenue and cash flow forecasts developed as part of our planning process. The use of different assumptions within our cash flow model could result in different amounts for the IMT-2000 frequency usage right. The results of our review using the testing method described above did not indicate any need to impair the IMT-2000 frequency usage right for 2006.

 

Impairment of investment securities

 

For investments in companies, whether or not publicly held, that are not controlled, but under our significant influence, we utilize the equity method of accounting. Under the equity method of accounting, our initial investment is recorded at cost and is subsequently increased to reflect our share of the investee income and reduced to reflect our share of the investee losses or dividends received. Any excess in our acquisition cost over our share of the investee’s identifiable net assets is generally recorded as investor-level goodwill or other intangibles and amortized by the straight-line method over the estimated useful life. The amortization of investor-level goodwill or other intangibles is recorded against the equity income (losses) of affiliates.

 

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Under U.S. GAAP, when events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an equity method investment may not be recoverable, we review the investment for other-than-temporary impairment. As part of this review, the investee’s operating results, net asset value and future performance forecasts as well as general market conditions are taken into consideration. If we believe, based on this review, that the market value of our investment may realistically be expected to recover, the loss will continue to be classified as temporary. If economic or specific industry trends worsen beyond our estimates, valuation losses previously determined to be recoverable may need to be charged as a valuation loss in equity income (losses) of affiliates.

 

Significant management judgment is involved in the evaluation of declines in value of individual investments. The estimates and assumptions used by management to evaluate declines in value can be impacted by many factors, such as the financial condition, earnings capacity and near-term prospects of the company in which we have invested and, for publicly-traded securities, the length of time and the extent to which fair value has been less than cost. The evaluation of these investments is also subject to the overall condition of the economy and its impact on the capital markets.

 

In 2003, KTF acquired beneficiary certificates issued by Shinhan Bank Trust in relation to the disposal of trade accounts and notes receivables. In 2005, KTF recognized the difference between the fair value and acquisition cost as impairment loss of Won 22 billion, which may arise from the uncollectability of the trade accounts and notes receivable. On December 31, 2006, KTF terminated the PCS service installment receivable transfer program and disposed of the beneficiary certificates and recognized reversal of impairment loss of Won 12 billion.

 

Income Taxes

 

We are required to estimate the amount of tax payable or refundable for the current year and the deferred income tax liabilities and assets for the future tax consequences of events that have been reflected in our financial statements or tax returns. This process requires management to make assessments regarding the timing and probability of the tax impact. Actual income taxes could vary from these estimates due to future changes in income tax law or unpredicted results from the final determination of each year’s liability by taxing authorities.

 

We believe that the accounting estimate related to establishing tax valuation allowances is a “critical accounting estimate” because: (1) it requires management to make assessments about the timing of future events, including the probability of expected future taxable income and available tax planning opportunities, and (2) the impact that changes in actual performance versus these estimates could have on the realization of tax benefits as reported in our results of operations could be material. Management’s assumptions require significant judgment because actual performance has fluctuated in the past and may continue to do so.

 

Under Korean GAAP, recognition of deferred tax benefit from equity in losses of affiliates requires realization of the benefit within the near future, which is construed to mean five years. We do not believe it is probable to realize such benefit from KTF’s investor-level goodwill amortization expenses within five years. Accordingly, we wrote off the related deferred income tax assets in the amount of Won 174 billion in 2004, Won 57 billion in 2005 and Won 26 billion in 2006 by taking charge to deferred income tax expense.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, deferred tax assets are recognized for the excess of the tax basis over the amount for financial reporting of domestic and foreign investments accounted for on the equity method (except for corporate joint ventures). We purchased additional shares of KTF in 2006, which became a consolidated subsidiary under U.S. GAAP as of August 20, 2006. We had recognized deferred tax assets amounting to Won 417 billion as of August 20, 2006 relating to the basis difference for our investment in KTF while being accounted for under the equity method. As a result of consolidation of KTF, the deferred tax assets can no longer be recorded since it is not apparent that the temporary difference will reverse in the foreseeable future. We eliminated the deferred tax assets with the corresponding charge applied to an increase of goodwill as part of purchase accounting and the initial consolidation of KTF under U.S. GAAP.

 

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Operating Results

 

Telephone Service Revenues

 

Local Service Revenues. Local service revenues include basic monthly charges and monthly usage charges from local telephone service and revenues from other value-added services, including local telephone directory assistance, call waiting and caller identification services. In addition, we charge interconnection fees to fixed-line competitors and mobile service providers whenever fixed-line competitors and mobile service providers use our local network in providing their services. Basic monthly charges vary depending on the location of the customer and the telephone installation charge system selected by the customer, and monthly usage charges are based on the number of call pulses. Service revenues from local service vary principally depending on the number of lines in service, the number of new lines placed in service, rates and the volume of calls. All lines in service are subject to measured service under which call pulses are a function of the number of calls made, each call’s duration and the time of day at which each call is made. Revenues from local calls placed from public telephones are also included in local service revenues.

 

In 2005, we had local service revenues of Won 2,918 billion, representing a decrease of 1.9% compared to 2004 local service revenues of Won 2,975 billion. The decrease in local service revenues in 2005 was due principally to a 9.8% decrease in the number of local call pulses in 2005 compared to 2004, which was attributable to the continued increase in usage of mobile telephone services and the Internet. Effects from such decrease were partially mitigated by our optional flat rate plan. See “—Overview—Changes in the Rate Structure for Local, Domestic Long-distance and International Long-distance Telephone Services.”

 

In 2006, we had local service revenues of Won 2,885 billion, representing a decrease of 1.1% compared to 2005 local service revenues. The decrease in local service revenues in 2006 was due principally to a 12.8% decrease in the number of local call pulses in 2006 compared to 2005 attributable to the continued increase in usage of mobile telephone services and the Internet. Effects from such decrease were partially offset by an increase in revenues from interconnection fees, as well as an increase in revenues from value-added services such as local telephone directory assistance.

 

Non-refundable Service Installation Fee. We implemented a new telephone installation charge system in April 2001, pursuant to which new customers who did not previously subscribe to our local service must pay a Won 60,000 non-refundable installation fee. We also recognize such non-refundable installation fee as revenue. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Item 4.B. Business Overview—Revenues and Rates—Telephone Services—Local Telephone Service.” We recognized as revenue Won 79 billion in non-refundable service installation fees in 2004, Won 70 billion in 2005 and Won 46 billion in 2006.

 

Domestic Long-distance Revenues. Service revenues from domestic long-distance service depend on rates, the number of call minutes, and the distance and the time of day each call is made. In addition, we charge interconnection fees to fixed-line competitors, mobile service providers and voice resellers whenever they use our domestic long-distance network in providing their services. Domestic long-distance revenues include revenues from domestic long-distance calls placed from public telephones. Revenues from domestic long-distance service have decreased in recent years and are accounting for a smaller portion of our consolidated operating revenues, decreasing from 5.0% of our consolidated operating revenues in 2004 to 3.9% in 2006.

 

In 2005, we had domestic long-distance revenues of Won 766 billion, representing a decrease of 10.3% from 2004 domestic long-distance revenues of Won 854 billion. The decrease in domestic long-distance revenues in 2005 was due principally to a 11.0% decrease in the number of domestic long-distance call minutes in 2005 compared to 2004. The decrease in call minutes was due principally to the substitution effect from increase in usage of mobile telephone services and the Internet.

 

In 2006, we had domestic long-distance revenues of Won 701 billion, representing a decrease of 8.5% from 2005 domestic long-distance revenues. The decrease in domestic long-distance revenues in 2006 was due principally to a 6.1% decrease in the number of domestic long-distance call minutes in 2006 compared to 2005 attributable to the continued increase in usage of mobile telephone services and the Internet.

 

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International Long-distance Revenues. Service revenues from international long-distance service consist of:

 

   

amounts we bill to our customers for outgoing calls made to foreign countries (including customers who make calls to Korea from foreign countries under our home country direct-dial service);

 

   

amounts we bill to foreign telecommunications carriers and administrations for connection to the Korean telephone network in respect of incoming calls (including calls placed in Korea by customers of the foreign carriers for home country direct-dial service);

 

   

amounts we charge to fixed-line competitors, mobile service providers and voice resellers as interconnection fees for using our international network in providing their services; and

 

   

other revenues, including revenues from international calls placed from public telephones and international leased lines.

 

Outgoing calls made by customers in Korea (and by customers from foreign countries under our home country direct-dial service) are billed in accordance with our rate schedule for the country called, which rates vary depending on the time of day when a call is placed. Incoming calls are billed by us to the relevant foreign carrier or administration at the applicable settlement rate specified under the relevant agreement with the foreign entity. International long-distance calls to and from the United States, Japan and China in the aggregate accounted for approximately 58.1% of our total international long-distance call minutes in 2006. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Item 4.B. Business Overview—Our Services—Telephone Services—Fixed-line Telephone Services.”

 

In 2005, we had international long-distance revenues of Won 407 billion, representing a decrease of 3.0% compared to 2004 international long-distance revenues of Won 420 billion. Our international long-distance revenues decreased in 2005 primarily due to a 6.4% decrease in the number of international long-distance call minutes in 2005 compared to 2004 resulting from increased usage of mobile phones and Internet phones to make international long distance calls. Effects from such decrease were partially offset by an increase in revenues from our Internet phone service and an increase in call minutes to relatively more expensive China.

 

In 2006, we had international long-distance revenues of Won 383 billion, representing a decrease of 5.9% compared to 2005 international long-distance revenues. Our international long-distance revenues decreased in 2006 primarily due to a 10.4% decrease in the number of international long-distance call minutes in 2006 compared to 2005 resulting from continued increase in usage of mobile phones and Internet phones to make international long distance calls. Effects from such decrease were partially offset by an increase in revenues from our Internet phone service.

 

Land-to-mobile Interconnection Revenues. When a landline user initiates a call to a mobile subscriber, we record the entire amount of the usage charges for these calls in land-to-mobile interconnection revenues and pay an interconnection charge to the relevant mobile service provider. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Item 4.B. Business Overview—Revenues and Rates—Telephone Services—Interconnection.”

 

In 2005, we had land-to-mobile interconnection revenues of Won 1,715 billion, representing a decrease of 7.8% from 2004 interconnection revenues of Won 1,861 billion, primarily due to a decrease in the usage charge which are collected by us as land-to-mobile interconnection fees, as well as increased volume of calls between mobile subscribers which had the effect of lowering call volume from landline users to mobile subscribers.

 

In 2006, we had land-to-mobile interconnection revenues of Won 1,765 billion, representing an increase of 2.9% from 2005 interconnection revenues, primarily due to increased volume of calls between landline users to mobile subscribers.

 

Internet Service Revenues

 

Broadband Internet access service accounted for 12.5% of our consolidated operating revenues in 2004, 12.8% in 2005 and 12.1% in 2006. Miscellaneous Internet-related services include broadband Internet connection service to institutional customers under the “Kornet” brand name and services provided by our Internet data centers and bizmeka.com.

 

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Broadband Internet Access Service Revenues. Broadband Internet access service revenues include basic monthly charges for fixed-line broadband service and wireless LAN service, as well as applicable one-time installation fees. We do not charge usage fees to our subscribers of broadband Internet access service.

 

Broadband Internet access service revenues increased by 3.2% to Won 2,204 billion in 2005 from Won 2,135 billion in 2004. The revenue growth slowed in 2005 as our net addition of subscribers decreased in 2005 compared to prior years.

 

Broadband Internet access service revenues decreased by 2.5% to Won 2,149 billion in 2006 compared to 2005, primarily due to special discounts and waivers on modem rental fees offered to long-term subscribers in 2006, which more than offset the impact from an increase in the number of subscribers.

 

Miscellaneous Internet-related Service Revenues.

 

Miscellaneous Internet-related service revenues increased by 18.0% to Won 557 billion in 2005 from Won 472 billion in 2004, primarily due to an increase in revenues related to our Internet data centers and bizmeka service. These revenues increased by 2.0% to Won 568 billion in 2006 compared to 2005 primarily due to an increase in revenues related to our Internet data centers and bizmeka service.

 

PCS Revenues

 

Our revenues from PCS service are generated through our consolidated subsidiary KTF and our PCS resale service. We derive revenues principally from:

 

   

initial subscription fees;

 

   

monthly access fees;

 

   

usage charges for outgoing calls;

 

   

usage charges for wireless data transmission; and

 

   

value-added monthly service fees.

 

PCS service revenues increased by 8.8% to Won 5,227 billion in 2005 from Won 4,800 billion in 2004, primarily due to a 4.9% increase in the number of subscribers, including the resale subscribers of KT Corporation, to 12.3 million subscribers as of December 31, 2005 compared to 11.7 million as of December 31, 2004. The average monthly revenue per subscriber of KTF increased to Won 40,570 in 2005 from Won 39,890 in 2004.

 

PCS service revenues increased by 5.1% to Won 5,496 billion in 2006 from Won 5,227 billion in 2005, primarily due to a 5.0% increase in the number of subscribers, including resale subscribers of KT Corporation, to 12.9 million subscribers as of December 31, 2006 compared to 12.3 million subscribers as of December 31, 2005. The average monthly revenue per subscriber of KTF decreased to Won 38,768 in 2006 from Won 40,570 in 2005.

 

Sale of Goods

 

Our revenues from sale of goods are generated primarily through sale of PCS handsets through our consolidated subsidiary KTF and our PCS resale service and sale of specially designed handsets.

 

Revenues from sale of goods decreased by 13.9% to Won 1,511 billion in 2005 from Won 1,755 billion in 2004. Revenues from sale of goods were unusually high in 2004 due primarily to a high number of PCS handsets purchased by former SK Telecom subscribers who switched to KTF during 2004 after the implementation of mobile phone number portability, which more than offset a decrease in revenues from sale of goods resulting from KTF’s subscribers switching to SK Telecom and LG Telecom starting in July 2004.

 

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Revenues from sale of goods increased by 25.0% to Won 1,889 billion in 2006 compared to 2005, primarily due to an increase in the number of new handsets sold due to issuances of handset subsidies starting on March 27, 2006.

 

Other Revenues

 

Other revenues consist primarily of revenues from data communications service, satellite service, and miscellaneous services such as information technology and network services and services provided by KTH.

 

Revenues from data communications service include basic monthly charges of leased lines based on their distance, the capacity of the line and the type of line provided, as well as applicable one-time installation fees. Data communications service revenues decreased by 1.9% to Won 945 billion in 2005 from Won 963 billion in 2004, primarily as a result of continued decrease in demand for leased lines from Internet service providers. Such revenues decreased further by 4.4% in 2006 to Won 903 billion primarily as a result of continued decrease in demand for leased lines.

 

Our satellite service revenues decreased by 4.1% to Won 114 billion in 2005 from Won 119 billion in 2004 and decreased further by 3.5% to Won 110 billion in 2006, due primarily to an increase in demand for alternative networking options.

 

Revenues from miscellaneous services increased by 13.4% to Won 721 billion in 2005 from Won 636 billion in 2004 and increased further by 19.4% to Won 861 billion in 2006, primarily due to an increase in revenues from information technology and network services and services provided by KTH.

 

Salaries and Related Costs

 

The principal components of salaries and related costs are salaries and wages, provisions for retirement and severance benefits and employee benefits. Employee benefits include meal subsidies and commuting subsidies. The retirement and severance benefit is a lump-sum amount paid to employees who have been employed by us for more than one year when they leave.

 

In 2005, salaries and related costs were Won 3,046 billion, representing an 11.3% increase from 2004, primarily due to an increase in salaries and wages, as well as a payment of one-time bonuses of Won 91 billion. We also contributed approximately 2.3 million treasury shares to our employee stock ownership association in August 2005 and recorded Won 92 billion as employee benefits expense.

 

In 2006, salaries and related costs were Won 2,993 billion, representing a 1.7% decrease from Won 3,046 billion in 2005, primarily as a result of a decrease in employee benefits expense and provision for retirement and severance benefits, partially offset by an increase in salaries and wages. We recorded, as indicated above, a payment of one-time bonuses of Won 91 billion and contribution of approximately 2.3 million treasury shares to our employee stock ownership association in August 2005 and recorded Won 92 billion as employee benefits expense, compared to no such expenses in 2006.

 

Wireline Communications. In 2005, salaries and related costs increased by 12.4% to Won 2,612 billion from Won 2,324 billion in 2004, primarily as a result of an increase in salaries and wages, as well as a payment of one-time bonuses of Won 91 billion. In 2006, salaries and related costs decreased by 1.0% to Won 2,585 billion, primarily due to reasons discussed above.

 

PCS Service. In 2005, salaries and related costs increased by 2.7% to Won 228 billion from Won 222 billion in 2004, primarily as a result of an increase in the number of employees. The number of employees at KTF increased by 2.1% to 2,492 as of December 31, 2005 compared to 2,441 as of December 31, 2004. In 2006, salaries and related costs remained the same at Won 228 billion. The number of employees at KTF increased by 0.5% to 2,505 as of December 31, 2006 compared to 2,492 as of December 31, 2005.

 

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Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization remained relatively stable in recent years. In 2005, depreciation and amortization expense decreased by 6.3% to Won 3,557 billion from Won 3,720 billion in 2004. In 2006, depreciation and amortization expense remained the same at Won 3,557 billion.

 

Wireline Communications. Depreciation and amortization expense decreased by 4.8% in 2005 to Won 2,174 billion and by an additional 2.4% in 2006 to Won 2,121 billion due primarily to a decrease in capital expenditures on property and equipment in recent years as a result of a more efficient utilization of our facilities. Such effects more than offset an increase in our depreciation expenses in 2005 and 2006 arising from a change in accounting estimate. Effective January 1, 2005, we changed the estimated useful life used to compute depreciation on modems from six years to three years. As a result of this change in estimate, which is accounted for prospectively, depreciation expense in 2005 increased by Won 59 billion and by Won 57 billion in 2006, as compared to the amount which would have been reported using the previous useful life.

 

PCS Service. Depreciation and amortization expense increased by 4.4% in 2005 to Won 1,138 billion due primarily to increases in capital expenditures at KTF to enhance and expand its mobile network. Depreciation and amortization expense decreased by 0.3% to Won 1,135 billion in 2006.

 

Other Operating and Maintenance Expenses

 

The largest components of other operating and maintenance expenses are commissions and cost of services, cost of PCS handsets, interconnection payments and repairs and maintenance costs. The following table shows other operating and maintenance expenses broken down by major components and the percentage changes in these expenses for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2006:

 

     Year Ended December 31,

  

Year Ended December 31,


 
     2004

   2005

   2006

   2004/2005

    2005/2006

 
     (In billions of Won)  

Commissions, cost of services and settlement payments

   (Won) 2,616    (Won) 2,692    (Won) 3,200    2.9 %   18.9 %

Cost of goods sold

     1,782      1,461      1,682    (18.0 )   15.1  

Interconnection charge

     973      1,061      1,178    9.0     11.1  

Repairs and maintenance

     488      615      705    26.0     14.5  

Miscellaneous expenses

     2,195      2,293      2,062    4.5     (10.1 )
    

  

  

  

 

Total

   (Won) 8,054    (Won) 8,122    (Won) 8,827    0.8 %   8.7 %
    

  

  

  

 

 

Commissions, cost of services and settlement payments consist principally of commissions related to PCS handset sales, information technology and network services and production of prepaid phone cards and payments to foreign carriers and administrations for provision of international long-distance service pursuant to service agreements. In 2005, our commissions, cost of services and settlement payments increased by 2.9% to Won 2,692 billion from Won 2,616 billion in 2004, primarily as a result of a 9.1% increase in commissions to PCS sales agents to Won 1,026 billion and a 16.4% increase in commissions for information technology and network services and other miscellaneous services to Won 489 billion, which were partially offset by a 7.3% decrease in commissions related primarily to royalties paid for KTF’s PCS handset platform and commissions paid by KTF Technologies and KT Submarine to Won 984 billion. In 2006, our commissions, cost of services and settlement payments increased by 18.9% to Won 3,200 billion, primarily due to a 31.4% increase in commissions to PCS sales agents to Won 1,348 billion and a 24.0% increase in commission for information technology and network services and other miscellaneous services to Won 606 billion.

 

Our cost of goods sold consists primarily of PCS handsets sold through our consolidated subsidiary KTF and our PCS resale service. In 2005, cost of goods sold decreased by 18.0% to Won 1,461 billion from Won

 

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1,782 billion in 2004 as a result of a decrease in the number of subscribers switching handsets in 2005 compared to 2004. In 2006, cost of goods sold increased by 15.1% to Won 1,682 billion primarily due to an increase in the number of new handsets sold due to issuances of handset subsidies starting on March 27, 2006.

 

We recognize as an expense the interconnection payments to mobile service providers for calls from landline users and PCS subscribers of KTF to mobile service subscribers. Our interconnection charges increased by 9.0% to Won 1,061 billion in 2005 from Won 973 billion in 2004 primarily as a result of continued increase in the amount of traffic to mobile service providers, which more than offset a slight decrease in the interconnection charges we paid per minute to mobile service providers. Such charges increased further by 11.1% to Won 1,178 billion in 2006 primarily due to continued increase in the amount of traffic to mobile subscribers, which more than offset a slight decrease in the interconnection charges we paid per minute to mobile service providers. For a discussion of the interconnection payment calculation methodology, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Item 4.B. Business Overview—Revenues and Rates—Telephone Services—Interconnection.”

 

Our repair and maintenance expenses increased by 26.1% to Won 616 billion in 2005 from Won 488 billion in 2004 primarily due to an increase in repair and maintenance activities related to our broadband Internet service network. In 2006, our repair and maintenance expenses increased further by 14.5% to Won 705 billion primarily as a result of continued increase in repair and maintenance activities related to our broadband Internet service network.

 

Wireline Communications. The largest components of other operating and maintenance expenses are commissions and settlement payments, interconnection payments for landline to mobile calls and repair and maintenance expenses. In 2005, other operating and maintenance expenses increased by 6.2% to Won 5,432 billion from Won 5,115 billion in 2004 primarily as a result of an increase in commissions, cost of services and settlement payments. In 2006, other operating and maintenance expenses decreased by 1.9% to Won 5,329 billion primarily due to decreases in taxes, fines and dues payable by us, which were offset in part by an increase in sales commission related to an increase in the number of new handsets sold. All financial information included in the wireline communications segment discussion is based on non-consolidated financial statements of KT Corporation prior to elimination of intercompany transactions.

 

PCS Service. The largest components of other operating and maintenance expenses are cost of goods sold, sales promotion and advertisement costs, interconnection payments and commissions (including commissions related to PCS handset sales). In 2005, other operating and maintenance expenses decreased by 3.2% to Won 3,873 billion from Won 3,999 billion in 2004 primarily as a result of a decrease in promotion, advertising and commission expenses. In 2006, other operating and maintenance expenses increased by 15.9% to Won 4,488 billion primarily due to an increase in marketing expenses resulting from payments of handset subsidies starting on March 27, 2006. All financial information included in the PCS service segment discussion is based on non-consolidated financial statements of KTF prior to elimination of intercompany transactions.

 

Operating Income

 

Operating income decreased by 2.0% in 2005 to Won 2,431 billion from Won 2,481 billion in 2004, as the increase in operating expenses more than offset the increase in revenues described above. Accordingly, our operating margin decreased from 14.5% in 2004 to 14.2% in 2005. Operating income decreased by 2.1% to Won 2,379 billion in 2006, as the increase in operating expenses more than offset the increase in revenues described above. Accordingly, our operating margin decreased further to 13.4% in 2006.

 

Wireline Communications. In 2005, operating income decreased by 22.0% to Won 1,660 billion from Won 2,217 billion in 2004 as the increase in operating expenses described above more than offset the increase in operating revenues described above. Operating margin decreased from 17.9% in 2004 to 14.0% in 2005. In 2006, operating income increased by 4.7% to Won 1,737 billion as the decrease in operating expenses described above more than offset the decrease in operating revenues described above. Operating margin increased to 14.8% in 2006.

 

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PCS Service. In 2005, operating income increased by 54.6% to Won 834 billion from Won 539 billion in 2004 due to the increase in operating revenues described above as well as the decrease in operating expenses described above. Operating margin increased from 9.2% in 2004 to 13.8% in 2005. In 2006, operating income decreased by 19.8% to Won 669 billion as the increase in operating expenses described above more than offset the increase in operating revenues described above. Operating margin decreased to 10.3% in 2006.

 

Income Taxes

 

In 2005, our income tax expense was Won 387 billion and our effective tax rate was 22.2%. Effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted the Application of Korea Accounting Standard 06-2 “Deferred Tax Accounting for Investments in Subsidiaries, Affiliated Companies Accounted for Using the Equity Method, and Interest in Joint Ventures.” Application of Korea Accounting Standard 06-2 requires evaluation of tax benefit, if any, based on the net deferred tax asset or liability of all temporary difference arising from the same affiliate rather than on an individual basis. With the adoption of Application of Korea Accounting Standard 06-2, certain accounts of 2005 have been restated as required by this standard. We recognized investment tax credit of Won 238 billion but also recognized impairment of deferred tax asset of Won 57 billion in 2005 resulting from our conclusion that it was not probable for us to be able to realize the tax benefit of our equity in losses of affiliates. In 2006, our income tax expense was Won 490 billion and our effective tax rate was 24.5%. We recognized investment tax credit of Won 161 billion but also recognized impairment of deferred tax asset of Won 26 billion in 2006 resulting from our conclusion that it was not probable for us to be able to realize the tax benefit of our equity in losses of affiliates.

 

In December 2003, the Korean government reduced the corporate income tax rate (including resident tax) beginning in 2005. Effective January 1, 2005, the income tax rate was reduced from 29.7% to 27.5%. We recorded effect of tax rate change of Won 7 billion in 2004 due to the decrease of net deferred tax asset upon the enactment of the lower tax rate.

 

We had net deferred income tax assets of Won 306 billion as of December 31, 2006.

 

The Korean National Tax Service is currently conducting a regular tax audit on our filings made in 2003 and 2004. After completion of the tax audit, we expect that additional taxes may be assessed against us, which assessment is expected to be notified to us by the National Tax Service in the third quarter of 2007.

 

Wireline Communications. Income tax expense decreased by 39.8% to Won 327 billion in 2005 from Won 544 billion in 2004, primarily due to a 24.5% decrease in earnings before income taxes from Won 1,800 billion in 2004 to Won 1,359 billion in 2005. In 2006, income tax expense increased by 12.3% to Won 367 billion, primarily due to an increase in earnings before income tax to Won 1,601 billion.

 

PCS Services. Income tax expense increased by 157.6% to Won 64 billion in 2005 from Won 25 billion in 2004, primarily due to a 97.9% increase in earnings before income taxes from Won 309 billion in 2004 to Won 611 billion in 2005. In 2006, income tax expense increased by 60.4% to Won 102 billion, primarily due to a higher effective tax rate resulting from an increase in fines from the Korea Communications Commission and the Fair Trade Commission that are not recognized as tax deductible expenses.

 

Net Earnings

 

In 2005, our net earnings decreased by 15.3% to Won 1,085 billion from Won 1,282 billion in 2004 primarily due to a 44.9% increase in other expenses to Won 683 billion in 2005 from Won 471 billion in 2004 and a 84.4% increase in minority interest in earnings of consolidated subsidiaries to Won (275) billion in 2005 from Won (149) billion in 2004, as well as the 2.0% decrease in operating income discussed above. Other expenses increased in 2005 primarily as a result of (i) a decrease in our net foreign currency transaction and translation gains and (ii) a decrease in contributions received for losses on universal telecommunications services. We recorded an 87.8% decrease in our net foreign currency transaction and translation gains to Won 66 billion in 2005 from Won 543 billion in 2004 primarily resulting from a deceleration in the appreciation of the Won against the Dollar, in which a significant portion of our debt is denominated, during 2005 compared to 2004, as well as a reduction in our foreign currency-denominated debt following the redemption of most of our Dollar-denominated convertible bonds in early 2005. In terms of the average noon buying rate, the Won

 

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appreciated against the Dollar from Won 1,035.1 to US$1.00 as of December 31, 2004 to Won 1,010.0 to US$1.00 as of December 30, 2005. Our contributions received for losses on universal telecommunication services decreased by 90.7% to Won 7 billion in 2005 from Won 80 billion in 2004. The 2005 amount was negatively impacted by Won 27 billion that related to an adjustment from the prior year while the 2004 amount was positively impacted by Won 19 billion that related to an adjustment from the prior year. These effects more than offset (i) a 93.4% decrease in our net derivatives transaction and valuation losses to Won 10 billion in 2005 from Won 147 billion in 2004 primarily resulting from a deceleration in the appreciation of the Won against the Dollar during 2005 compared to 2004 and (ii) a net gain on disposition of available-for-sale securities of Won 70 billion in 2005 from our disposition of investments in equity securities, including Mobilians Co., Ltd., Sports Toto, Intelsat Ltd. and Inmarsat Group Holdings, Ltd., compared to a net loss on disposition of available-for-sale securities of Won 15 billion in 2004.

 

In 2005, our equity in losses of affiliates of Won 19 billion included our recognition of equity in losses of Won 25 billion relating to our investment in Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co. (“KDB”). In 2004, our investment in KDB was reduced to zero due to KDB’s operating losses and investor-level goodwill impairment of Won 37 billion. In December 2005, KDB issued new shares in the amount of the Won 46 billion, which were acquired by JPMorgan Whitefriars Inc. (including the rights to dividends and voting rights of the KDB shares). Related to the new shares issuance by KDB, JPMorgan Chase Bank and we entered into a “put and call combination” contract based on the related shares of KDB amounting to Won 46 billion plus a cash premium of Won 7 billion. As a result of this commitment, we have resumed the equity method of accounting for our investment in KDB. See Note 9 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

In 2006, our net earnings increased by 19.0% to Won 1,292 billion from Won 1,085 billion in 2005 primarily as a result of a 44.5% decrease in other expenses to Won 379 billion from Won 683 billion in 2005 and a 20.7% decrease in minority interest in earnings of consolidated subsidiaries to Won (218) billion in 2006 from Won (275) billion in 2005 resulting primarily from earnings of KTF, which more than offset the impact of a 2.1% decrease in operating income discussed above. Other expenses decreased in 2006 primarily as a result of (i) a decrease in interest expense, (ii) an increase in net foreign currency transactions and translation gains, (iii) a decrease in provision for doubtful accounts—other and (iv) a decrease in net loss on disposition of property, plant and equipment. Our interest expense decreased by 18.4% to Won 503 billion in 2006 from Won 617 billion primarily due to reduction of our long-term debt in 2006. Our long-term debt, excluding current portion, decreased to Won 6,097 billion as of December 31, 2006 compared to Won 7,360 billion as of December 31, 2005. We recorded a 110.9% increase in net foreign currency transaction and translation gains to Won 140 billion in 2006 from Won 66 billion in 2005 primarily resulting from the appreciation of the Won against the Dollar during 2006 compared to 2005. In terms of the noon buying rate, the Won appreciated against the Dollar from Won 1,010.0 to US$1.00 as of December 30, 2005 to Won 930.0 to US$1.00 as of December 29, 2006. We decreased our provision for doubtful accounts by—other 73.2% to Won 19 billion in 2006 from Won 71 billion in 2005. A substantial portion of provision for doubtful accounts—other in 2005 was related to accounts receivable—other from KDB. We did not record any such provision in 2006 due to improvement of KDB’s financial conditions. We recorded a 31.6% decrease in net loss on disposition of property, plant and equipment to Won (99) billion in 2006 from Won (145) billion in 2005 primarily due to a decrease in disposal of property, plant and equipment that were considered obsolete or useless in 2006 compared to 2005. These effects more than offset a 872.5% increase in our net derivatives transaction and valuation losses to Won 95 billion in 2006 from Won 10 billion in 2005 primarily resulting from the appreciation of the Won against the Dollar during 2006 compared to 2005.

 

Wireline Communications. Net earnings decreased by 17.9% to Won 1,032 billion in 2005 from Won 1,256 billion in 2004 but increased by 19.5% to Won 1,233 billion in 2006, primarily as a result of the reasons discussed above.

 

PCS Service. In 2005, net earnings increased by 92.7% to Won 547 billion from Won 284 billion in 2004 primarily as a result of the 54.6% increase in operating income in 2005 discussed above. In 2006, net earnings decreased by 24.7% to Won 412 billion primarily as a result of the 19.8% decrease in operating income in 2006 discussed above.

 

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Inflation

 

We do not consider that inflation in Korea has had a material impact on our results of operations in recent years. Inflation in Korea was 3.6% in 2004, 2.7% in 2005 and 2.2% in 2006. See “Item 3. Key Information—Item 3.D. Risk Factors—Korea is our most important market, and our current business and future growth could be materially and adversely affected if economic conditions in Korea deteriorate.”

 

Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

The following table sets forth the summary of our cash flows determined in accordance with Korean GAAP for the periods indicated:

 

     For the Years Ended December 31,

 
     2004

    2005

    2006

 
     (In billions of Won)  

Net cash provided by operating activities

   (Won) 4,719     (Won) 5,986     (Won) 5,764  

Net cash used in investing activities

     (3,618 )     (2,523 )     (3,062 )

Net cash used in financing activities

     (106 )     (3,725 )     (2,417 )

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents from change of subsidiaries in consolidated financial statements

     —         53       (4 )

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     761       1,756       1,547  

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

     1,756       1,547       1,829  

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     995       (209 )     282  

 

Capital Requirements

 

Historically, uses of cash and cash equivalents consisted principally of purchases of property, plant and equipment and other assets and payments of long-term debt. In recent years, we have also used cash for acquisition of treasury shares and shares of our affiliates and payment of retirement and severance benefits for early retirement programs. From time to time, we may also require capital for investments involving acquisitions and strategic relationships.

 

Net cash used in investing activities was Won 3,618 billion in 2004, Won 2,523 billion in 2005 and Won 3,062 billion in 2006, including additions to property, plants and equipment of Won 2,971 billion in 2004, Won 2,871 billion in 2005 and Won 3,518 billion in 2006. We recorded net acquisition of short-term financial instruments of Won 923 billion in 2004 and net sale of short-term financial instruments of Won 354 billion in 2005 and Won 327 billion in 2006.

 

In our financing activities, we used cash of Won 2,178 billion in 2004, Won 4,903 billion in 2005 and Won 1,284 billion in 2006 for repayment of outstanding long-term debt. In November 2004, substantially all of the holders of convertible notes due 2007 elected to exercise their option to redeem the notes, and we repaid the principal amount of US$1.1 billion on January 4, 2005. On the same day, we also used US$500 million to repay the principal amount of bonds issued to Microsoft Corporation. In addition, we used Won 1,323 billion on May 25, 2005 to repay the outstanding principal of and accrued interest on convertible bonds issued to domestic investors in May 2002.

 

From time to time, we have also required capital needs for acquisition of treasury shares and shares of our affiliates and payment of retirement and severance benefits for early retirement programs. We spent Won 214 billion in 2006 to purchase and retire 5,222,000 shares of treasury stock. In 2007, we plan to purchase an additional 2,058,000 shares on the market by August 2007 and retire such treasury shares. In addition, we spent Won 364 billion in 2006 to acquire additional equity interest in consolidated subsidiaries, including Won 358 billion to purchase 12,489,850 shares of KTF.

 

Payments of cash dividends amounted to Won 683 billion in 2004, Won 683 billion in 2005 and Won 494 billion in 2006.

 

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We anticipate that capital expenditures, and, to a lesser extent, repayment of outstanding contractual obligations and commitments will represent the most significant use of funds for the next several years. We may also require capital for investments involving acquisitions and strategic relationships, as well as the purchase of additional treasury shares and shares of our affiliates. For example, KTF and DoCoMo entered into a strategic alliance in December 2005, pursuant to which DoCoMo acquired common shares representing 10.0% interest in KTF for Won 564 billion. Under the agreement, DoCoMo has the right to require us to purchase these shares if KTF fails to achieve an agreed W-CDMA service coverage rate in Korea by December 31, 2008. If the option is exercised by DoCoMo, we will be required to purchase the shares at the acquisition price plus interest by February 15, 2009. KTF believes that it has achieved W-CDMA service coverage rate specified in the agreement, and DoCoMo is expected to complete its verification in the second half of 2007.

 

We compete in the telecommunications sector in Korea, which is rapidly evolving. We also face increasing competition from new entrants to the market. We may need to incur additional capital expenditures to keep up with unexpected developments in rapidly evolving telecommunications technology. There can be no assurance that we will be able to secure funds on satisfactory terms from financial institutions or other sources that are sufficient for our unanticipated needs.

 

Payments of contractual obligations and commitments will also require considerable resources. In our ordinary course of business, we routinely enter into commercial commitments for various aspects of our operations, including repair and maintenance. As of December 31, 2006, we had various contractual obligations and commitments which are more fully disclosed in the notes to our consolidated financial statements.

 

The following table sets forth selected information regarding our contractual obligations to make future payments as of December 31, 2006:

 

     Payments Due by Period

Contractual Obligations(1)


   Total

  

Less than

1 Year


  

1-3

Years


  

4-5

Years


  

After 5

Years


     (In billions of Won)

Long-term debt obligations (including current portion of long-term debt)

   (Won) 7,482    (Won) 1,354    (Won) 1,962    (Won) 1,714    (Won) 2,452

Capital lease obligations

     57      16      29      12      —  

Operating lease obligations

     36      6      11      11      8

Long-term accounts payable—others

     650      90      240      320      —  
    

  

  

  

  

Total

   (Won) 8,225    (Won) 1,466    (Won) 2,242    (Won) 2,057    (Won) 2,460
    

  

  

  

  

Estimate of interest payment based on contractual interest rates effective as of December 31, 2006

   (Won) 1,394    (Won) 387    (Won) 544    (Won) 347    (Won) 116

(1) Contractual obligations represent on-balance sheet contractual liabilities as of the consolidated balance sheet date excluding refundable deposits for telephone installation and accruals for customer call bonus points, which do not have definitive payment schedules.

 

Capital Resources

 

We have traditionally met our working capital and other capital requirements principally from cash provided by operations, while raising the remainder of our requirements primarily through debt financing. Our major sources of cash have been net earnings before depreciation and amortization and proceeds of long-term debt, and we expect that these sources will continue to be our principal sources of cash in the future. Net income was Won 1,282 billion in 2004, Won 1,085 billion in 2005 and Won 1,292 billion in 2006, depreciation and amortization were Won 3,797 billion in 2004, Won 3,639 billion in 2005 and Won 3,618 billion in 2006, and aggregate cash proceeds from long-term debt were Won 3,236 billion in 2004, Won 1,764 billion in 2005 and Won 285 billion in 2006.

 

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In recent years, KTF has also begun to utilize off-balance financing arrangements to supplement the primary sources of financing discussed above. On November 4, 2003, KTF established a PCS service installment receivables transfer program. Under this program, KTF sold receivables on a monthly basis and received cash and beneficiary certificates. The amount of beneficiary certificates changed depending on the amount of disposals. KTF recognized a loss on disposal of trade accounts and notes receivable of Won 12 billion in 2005 and Won 11 billion in 2006. On December 21, 2006, KTF early terminated the program, repurchased the remaining outstanding receivables in exchange for Won 200 billion in cash and nullified the beneficiary certificates. We recorded the repurchased receivables at net realizable value and recognized a gain of Won 12 billion.

 

We believe that we have sufficient working capital available to us for our current requirements and that we have a variety of alternatives available to us to satisfy our financial requirements to the extent that they are not met by funds generated by operations, including the issuance of debt securities and bank borrowings denominated in Won and various foreign currencies. For example, we updated our Medium Term Note program in June 2005 from US$1 billion to US$2 billion, of which US$700 million remained unused as of December 31, 2006. However, our ability to rely on some of these alternatives could be affected by factors such as the liquidity of the Korean and other financial markets, prevailing interest rates, our credit rating and the Government’s policies regarding Won currency and foreign currency borrowings. Other factors which could materially affect our liquidity in the future include unanticipated increase in capital expenditures and decrease in cash provided by operations resulting from a significant decrease in demand for our services. We may also need to raise additional capital sooner than we expect in order to fund unanticipated investments and acquisitions.

 

Our total stockholders’ equity increased from Won 10,390 billion at December 31, 2005 to Won 10,697 billion at December 31, 2006, primarily as a result of net earnings.

 

Liquidity

 

We had a working capital (current assets minus current liabilities) deficit of Won 1,526 billion as of December 31, 2004. We had a working capital surplus of Won 1,309 billion as of December 31, 2005 and Won 558 billion as of December 31, 2006. The following table sets forth the summary of our significant current assets for the periods indicated:

 

     As of December 31,

     2004

   2005

   2006

     (In billions of Won)

Cash and cash equivalents

   (Won) 1,756    (Won) 1,547    (Won) 1,829

Short-term financial instruments

     984      640      313

Current portion of trading securities

     6      250      31

Current portion of available-for-sale securities

     258      15      204

Notes and accounts receivable—trade, net of allowance for doubtful accounts

     2,793      2,456      2,576

Accounts receivable—other

     365      285      297

Inventories

     374      360      237

 

Our cash, cash equivalents and short-term financial instruments maturing within one year totaled Won 2,740 billion as of December 31, 2004, Won 2,187 billion as of December 31, 2005 and Won 2,141 billion as of December 31, 2006. Under Korean GAAP, bank deposits and all highly liquid temporary cash instruments within maturities of three months are considered as cash equivalents. Short-term financial instruments primarily consist of time and trust deposits with maturities between four to twelve months. The level of cash and cash equivalents remained relatively high as of December 31, 2005 and the level of current portion of trading securities increased significantly as of December 31, 2005 primarily due to Won 564 billion in proceeds from the sale of KTF shares to DoCoMo in December 2005. The level of cash and cash equivalents remained relatively high as of December 31, 2006 primarily as a result of classification of money trust accounts and repurchase agreements as cash equivalents in accordance with their underlying investment portfolio that held investments that mature in less than three months as of December 31, 2006.

 

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The following table sets forth the summary of our significant current liabilities for the periods indicated:

 

     As of December 31,

     2004

   2005

   2006

     (In billions of Won)

Notes and accounts payable—trade

   (Won) 853    (Won) 867    (Won) 773

Short-term borrowings

     439      113      185

Current portion of long-term debt

     4,756      1,206      1,353

Accounts payable—other

     1,123      1,441      1,708

Accrued expenses

     288      458      422

 

As of December 31, 2006, we had bank overdraft agreements for borrowings up to Won 978 billion, commercial paper issuance agreements for borrowings up to Won 300 billion, bill discounting agreements for borrowings up to Won 10 billion, collateral loan agreements on accounts receivables for borrowings up to Won 800 billion, letters of credit agreements for borrowings up to US$26 million and a collection agreement for foreign-currency denominated checks up to US$1 million. As of December 31, 2006, no amounts were outstanding under these facilities. We have not had, and do not believe that we will have, difficulty gaining access to short-term financing sufficient to meet our current requirements. We issued guarantees in favor of our consolidated subsidiaries’ indebtedness and contract performance of Won 35 billion as of December 31, 2006.

 

Capital Expenditures

 

Capital expenditures on property, plants and equipment in 2006 totaled Won 3,518 billion compared to Won 2,871 billion in 2005 and Won 2,971 billion in 2004.

 

Our current capital expenditure plan (including expenditures on property, plants and equipment) calls for the expenditure of approximately Won 3,844 billion in 2007 (including approximately Won 1,044 billion by KTF). The principal components of our capital investment plans are:

 

   

Won 1.2 trillion in general expansion and modernization of our network infrastructure;

 

   

Won 400 billion in upgrading our broadband network to enable FTTH connection;

 

   

Won 400 billion in capital investments for IMT-2000 (W-CDMA) service;

 

   

Won 240 billion in capital investments for Wibro service; and

 

   

Won 140 billion in capital investments for IP-TV service.

 

We expect that KTF will obtain the necessary capital for its investments from financial institutions. There can be no assurance, however, that KTF will be able to secure sufficient funds on satisfactory terms from these or other sources, and KTF’s failure to secure funds for its capital expenditures and ongoing operating costs may have a material adverse effect on its financial condition and results of operations. We are not under any obligation to fund capital expenditures of KTF or any other consolidated subsidiary if these consolidated subsidiaries are unable to obtain necessary capital through operations or from financial institutions.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements in Korean GAAP

 

Effective January 1, 2006, we adopted Statements of Korean Accounting Standards No. 19 “Lease” and No. 20 “Related Party Disclosures.” The adoption of these standards did not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements. In addition, we adopted the Application of Korea Accounting Standard (“AKAS”) 06-2 “Deferred Tax Accounting for Investments in Subsidiaries, Affiliated Companies Accounted for Using the Equity Method, and Interest in Joint Ventures.” With the adoption of AKAS 06-2, income taxes of 2005 were changed from Won 421 billion to Won 387 billion and consequently net earnings of 2005 were changed from Won 1,052 billion to Won 1,085 billion. See Note 29 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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U.S. GAAP Reconciliation

 

In 2004, we recorded net earning of Won 1,405 billion under U.S. GAAP compared to net earnings of Won 1,282 billion under Korean GAAP, primarily because of difference in the treatment of deferred income tax under U.S. GAAP, foreign currency translation of convertible notes and reversal of goodwill amortization relating to equity method investments. In 2005, we recorded net earnings of Won 1,149 billion under U.S. GAAP compared to net earnings of Won 1,085 billion under Korean GAAP, primarily because of difference in the treatment of reversal of goodwill amortization relating to equity method investments, depreciation and deferred income tax. In 2006, we recorded net earnings of Won 1,329 billion under U.S. GAAP compared to net earnings of Won 1,292 billion under Korean GAAP, primarily because of difference in the treatment of depreciation and reversal of goodwill amortization relating to equity method investments.

 

Stockholders’ equity under U.S. GAAP is lower than under Korean GAAP by Won 3,005 billion as of December 31, 2005 and Won 2,659 billion as of December 31, 2006 primarily as a result of:

 

   

the difference in the treatment of minority interests;

 

   

the difference in the treatment of impairment loss relating to equity investees;

 

   

the difference in the treatment of deferred service installation fees; and

 

   

the difference in the treatment of depreciation,

 

which more than offset the effect of:

 

   

other differences in the treatment of equity in earnings of equity method affiliates; and

 

   

the aggregate effect of deferred income taxes recognized under U.S. GAAP.

 

For further discussion of the principal differences between Korean GAAP and U.S. GAAP as they relate to us, see Note 35 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements in U.S. GAAP

 

In February 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued SFAS No. 155, “Accounting for Certain Hybrid Financial Instruments,” which amends SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” (SFAS No. 133) and SFAS No. 140, “Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities” (SFAS No. 140). This statement amends SFAS No. 133 to permit fair value remeasurement for any hybrid instrument that contains an embedded derivative that otherwise would require bifurcation. This statement also eliminates the interim guidance in SFAS No. 133 Implementation Issue D-1, which provides that beneficial interests in securitized financial assets are not subject to the provisions of SFAS No. 133. Finally, this statement amends SFAS No. 140 to eliminate the restriction on passive derivative instruments that a qualifying special-purpose entity may hold. This statement is effective for all financial instruments acquired or issued in first fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2006. We do not expect the statement to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

 

In April 2006, the FASB issued FSP FIN 46R-6, “Determining the Variability to Be Considered in Applying FASB Interpretation No. 46R,” which requires the variability of an entity to be analyzed based on the design of the entity. The nature and risks in the entity, as well as the purpose for the entity’s creation are examined to determine the variability in applying FIN 46R, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities.” The variability is used in applying FIN 46R to determine whether an entity is a VIE, which interests are variable interests in the entity, and who is the primary beneficiary of the VIE. This statement is effective for all reporting periods beginning after June 15, 2006. We believe that the adoption of this statement will not have a significant impact on our financial position or results of operations.

 

In June 2006, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes”, which supplements SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes,” by defining the confidence level that a tax position must meet in order to be recognized in the financial statements. The interpretation requires that the tax effects of

 

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a position be recognized only if it is “more-likely-than-not” to be sustained based solely on its technical merits as of the reporting date. The more-likely-than-not threshold represents a positive assertion by management that a company is entitled to the economic benefits of a tax position. If a tax position is not considered more-likely-than-not to be sustained based solely on its technical merits, no benefits of the position are to be recognized. Moreover, the more-likely-than-not threshold must continue to be met in each reporting period to support continued recognition of a benefit. At adoption, companies must adjust their financial statements to reflect only those tax positions that are more-likely-than-not to be sustained as of the adoption date. Any necessary adjustment would be recorded directly to retained earnings in the period of adoption and reported as a change in accounting principle. This interpretation is effective as of the beginning of the first fiscal year beginning after December 15, 2006. We do not expect the statement to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

 

In September 2006, the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) issued Staff Accounting Bulletin (“SAB”) No. 108, “Considering the Effects of Prior Year Misstatements When Quantifying Misstatements in Current Year Financial Statements”. SAB No. 108 states that registrants should use both a balance sheet approach and an income statement approach when quantifying and evaluating the materiality of a misstatement. The interpretations in SAB No. 108 contain guidance on correcting prior period errors under the dual approach as well as provide transition guidance for correcting prior period errors. This interpretation does not change the requirements within SFAS No. 154, “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections—a replacement of Accounting Principles Board Opinion (“APB”) No. 20 and SFAS No. 3,” for the correction of an error in financial statements. SAB No. 108 is effective for annual financial statements covering the first fiscal year ending after November 15, 2006. The adoption of this statement does not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (SFAS 157), which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS 157 does not require any new fair value measurements, but provides guidance on how to measure fair value by providing a fair value hierarchy used to classify the source of the information. This statement is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. Our management is assessing the potential impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued statement No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, an Amendment to FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106, and 132(R)” (SFAS 158). SFAS 158 requires, among other things, that a company (1) recognize a net liability or asset to report the funded status of their defined benefit pensions and other postretirement plans on its balance sheet, (2) measure benefit plan assets and benefit obligations as of the company’s balance sheet date and (3) recognize as a component of other comprehensive income, net of tax, the gains or losses and prior service costs or credits that arise during the period but are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost pursuant to FASB Statement No. 87, or No. 106. The adoption of SFAS 158 as of December 31, 2006 did not have a significant impact to our financial conditions and results of operation.

 

In February 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statements of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities,” which provides companies with an option to report selected financial assets and liabilities at fair value in an attempt to reduce both complexity in accounting for financial instruments and the volatility in earnings caused by measuring related assets and liabilities differently. This Statement is effective as of the beginning of an entity’s first fiscal year beginning after November 15, 2007. We are currently evaluating the impact that the adoption may have on our consolidated financial statements.

 

Item 5.C. Research and Development, Patents and Licenses

 

In order to conduct our research and develop applications of new technology for the Korean telecommunications system, we operate:

 

   

a broadband convergence network, or BcN, business unit;

 

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a future technology laboratory;

 

   

an infrastructure laboratory;

 

   

an information security business unit;

 

   

a marketing laboratory; and

 

   

a network technology laboratory.

 

At December 31, 2006, these research centers employed a total of 860 researchers and employees, of whom 144 had doctoral degrees and 655 had master’s degrees. Total expenditures on research and development (excluding the contributions referred to below) were Won 254 billion in 2004, Won 257 billion in 2005 and Won 209 billion in 2006.

 

A substantial part of our research and development budget is for contributions to unaffiliated educational foundations and institutes conducting research. Under the Telecommunications Basic Law, network service providers and specific service providers are obligated to contribute 0.75% and 0.5% of their total annual revenues, respectively, to the Institute of Information Technology Assessment, which uses the fund to promote research and development in information technology. Our contributions as a network service provider and specific service provider to the Korean government (Information and Telecommunication Improvement Fund), the Korea Electronic Telecommunication Research Institute and other institutes amounted to Won 74 billion in 2004, Won 66 billion in 2005 and Won 75 billion in 2006. As of December 31, 2006, KT Corporation had 5,309 registered patents and 4,028 patents pending domestically and had 633 registered patents and 526 patents pending internationally:

 

In recent years, we have focused our research and development efforts in the following areas:

 

   

next generation telecommunication network construction and engineering;

 

   

development of new BcN-based business;

 

   

IP infrastructure and access network engineering;

 

   

development of technology for ubiquitous web services and semantic web services;

 

   

development of technology for deployment of FTTH in select locations;

 

   

WiBro Internet access service;

 

   

diagnosis and improvement of information security system to protect customer information against security breach; and

 

   

development and maintenance of a new operations support system.

 

Item 5.D. Trend Information

 

These matters are discussed under Item 5.A. above where relevant.

 

Item 5.E. Off-balance Sheet Arrangements

 

These matters are discussed under Item 5.B. above where relevant.

 

Item 5.F. Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations

 

These matters are discussed under Item 5.B. above where relevant.

 

Item 5.G. Safe Harbor

 

See “Item 3. Key Information—Item 3.D. Risk Factors—Forward-looking statements may prove to be inaccurate.”

 

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Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees

 

Item 6.A. Directors and Senior Management

 

Directors

 

Our board of directors has the ultimate responsibility for the administration of our affairs. Our articles of incorporation provide for a board of directors consisting of:

 

   

up to three standing directors, including the President; and

 

   

up to eight outside directors.

 

All of our directors are elected at the shareholders’ meeting. If the total assets of a company listed on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange as of the end of the preceding year exceeds Won 2,000 billion, which is the case with us, the Securities and Exchange Act of Korea requires such company to have more than three outside directors with at least half of its total directors being outside directors. The term of office for all directors is up to three years, but the term is extended to the close of the annual shareholders’ meeting convened with respect to the last fiscal year of the term.

 

Under the Securities and Exchange Act, we must establish a committee to nominate candidates for outside directors within the board of directors, and outside directors must make up not less than half of the total members of the outside director candidate nominating committee. According to our articles of incorporation, such committee must consist of one standing director and all of our outside directors. Our Outside Director Candidate Recommendation Committee nominates outside director candidates for appointment at the general shareholders’ meeting.

 

One-third of the outside directors must be up for election in any given year. Upon the request of any director, a meeting of the board of directors will be assembled. The chairman of the board of directors is elected from among the outside directors by a resolution of the board of directors. The term of office of the chairman is one year.

 

Our current directors are as follows:

 

Name


  

Position


   Director Since

   Age

   Expiration of
Term of Office


Standing Directors(1)

                   

Joong-Soo Nam

   President and Chief Executive Officer    August 2005    51    2008

Jong-Lok Yoon

   Senior Executive Vice President    November 2006    49    2008

Jeong-Soo Suh

   Executive Vice President    September 2005    49    2008

Outside Directors(1)

                   

Jeong-Ro Yoon

   Professor, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology    March 2004    52    2010

Kook-Hyun Moon

   Chief Executive Officer of Yuhan-Kimberly Corporation    August 2002    58    2008

Stuart B. Solomon

   Chief Executive Officer of Metropolitan Life Insurance (Korea)    August 2002    57    2008

Do-Hwan Kim

   Professor, Sejong University    March 2003    48    2009

Kon-Sik Kim

   Professor, Seoul National University    March 2004    52    2010

Thae-Surn Khwarg

   Chief Executive Officer of SEI Asset Korea    March 2005    48    2008

Jong-Kyoo Yoon

   Senior Counsel of Kim & Chang    March 2006    51    2009

Paul Chang Yi (Chang Yub Yi)

   Chief Executive Officer of Coca-Cola Korea Company Ltd.    March 2007    40    2010

(1) All of our standing and outside directors beneficially own less than one percent of the issued shares of KT Corporation in the aggregate.

 

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Joong-Soo Nam is a standing director and has served as president and chief executive officer of KT Corporation since August 2005. He has also served as president and chief executive officer of KTF from January 2003 to July 2005. Prior to joining KTF, he served as an executive vice president and chief financial officer of KT Corporation. Mr. Nam holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Seoul National University, an M.B.A. degree from The Fuqua School of Business of Duke University and a Ph.D. degree in business administration from University of Massachusetts.

 

Jong-Lok Yoon is a standing director and has served as senior executive vice president of the Growing Business Group since November 2006. He has previously served as senior executive vice president of the Research and Development Group and executive vice president of the New Business Planning Group and the Marketing Group. Mr. Yoon holds a bachelor’s degree in air telecommunication engineering from Hankuk Aviation University and a master’s degree in electronic engineering from Yonsei University.

 

Jeong-Soo Suh is a standing director and has served as executive vice president of the Corporate Strategy Group since September 2005. He has previously served as senior vice president of the Planning and Coordination Office and a chief financial officer of KT Corporation. Mr. Suh holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Sung Kyun Kwan University and an M.B.A. degree from Yonsei University.

 

Jeong-Ro Yoon has served as outside director since March 2004. She is currently a professor of humanities and social sciences at Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology and has served as vice president of Korean Sociological Association. Ms. Yoon holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Seoul National University and has received both her graduate and Ph.D. degrees in sociology from Harvard University.

 

Kook-Hyun Moon has served as outside director since August 2002. He is currently chief executive officer of Yuhan-Kimberly Corporation and was formerly a professor of environmental studies at Seoul National University. Mr. Moon holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Hankuk University of Foreign Studies and an M.B.A. degree from Seoul National University.

 

Stuart B. Solomon has served as outside director since August 2002. He is currently chief executive officer of Metropolitan Life Insurance (Korea) and has served as governor of The American Chamber of Commerce in Korea. Mr. Solomon holds a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from Syracuse University.

 

Do-Hwan Kim has served as outside director since March 2003. He is currently a professor of business management at Sejong University and was formerly a senior research fellow at Korea Information Society Development Institute. Mr. Kim holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Sungkyunkwan University, a graduate degree in management science from Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology and a Ph.D. degree in managerial economics and decision science from Northwestern University.

 

Kon-Sik Kim has served as outside director since March 2004. He is currently a professor of law at Seoul National University and has served as a visiting lecturer at University of Washington. Mr. Kim holds a bachelor’s degree in law from Seoul National University and a J.D. degree and a Ph.D. degree in law from University of Washington.

 

Thae-Surn Khwarg has served as outside director since March 2005. He is currently chief executive officer of SEI Asset Korea and has served as vice president of the Seoul branch office of Baring Securities. Mr. Khwarg holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Columbia University and a J.D. degree from Harvard Law School.

 

Jong-Kyoo Yoon has served as outside director since March 2006. He is currently senior counsel of Kim & Chang and has served as senior executive vice president of Kookmin Bank. Mr. Yoon holds a bachelor’s degree and a Ph.D degree in business administration from Sungkyunkwan University and an M.B.A. degree from Seoul National University.

 

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Paul Chang Yi (Chang Yub Yi) has served as outside director since March 2007. He is currently chief executive officer of Coca-Cola Korea Company Ltd. and has served as chief executive officer of Nongshim Kellogg Co., Ltd. and as head of the Korean branch of Hershey Foods Corporation. Mr. Yi holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from University of Texas and an M.B.A. degree from Columbia Business School.

 

For the purposes of the Korean Commercial Code, our President is deemed to be the “representative director” who is authorized to perform all judicial and extra-judicial acts relating to our business. Our shareholders elect the President in accordance with the provisions of the Commercial Code and our articles of incorporation. A candidate for President is nominated by a committee formed for that purpose. The president candidate nominating committee consists of:

 

   

all of our outside directors;

 

   

one person who is designated by the board of directors from among the ex-presidents; and

 

   

one civilian designated by outside directors, except former and present officers and employees of telecom carriers competing with us, their affiliates, our officers and employees and government officers.

 

Under our articles of incorporation, the president candidate nominating committee must submit a draft management contract between the company and the candidate covering the management objectives of the company to the shareholders’ meeting at the time of nomination of the candidate to the meeting. When the draft management contract has been approved at the shareholders’ meeting, the company enters into such management contract with the president. In such case, the chairman of the president candidate nominating committee, on behalf of the company, signs the management contract.

 

The board of directors may conduct performance review discussions to determine if the new president performed his or her duties under the management contract, or hire a professional evaluation agency for such purpose. If the board of directors determines, based on the results of the performance review, that the new president has failed to achieve the management goals, it may propose to dismiss the president at a shareholders’ meeting.

 

Senior Management

 

Our executive officers consist of Executive Vice Presidents, Senior Vice Presidents and Vice Presidents. The executive officers other than the standing directors are appointed by the President and may serve up to three years. Our Chief Financial Officer is Haing Min Kwon, Senior Vice President of the Financial Management Office.

 

The current executive officers are as follows:

 

Name(1)


  

Title and Responsibilities


  

Current

Position

Held Since


   Years
with the
Company


   Age

Soo-Ho Maeng

  

Senior Vice President, Corporate Relations Office

   November 2006    17    47

Hee-Kyun Park

  

Senior Vice President, Support Group

   November 2005    22    51

Haing Min Kwon

  

Senior Vice President, Financial Management Office

   November 2006    23    48

Byung-Woo Lee

  

Senior Vice President, Marketing Group

   November 2006    21    50

Gwang-Ju Seo

  

Senior Vice President, Network Group

   November 2005    26    50

Han-Suk Kim

  

Senior Vice President, Global Business Unit

   November 2005    17    51

Byoung-Kon Shin

  

Senior Vice President, Metropolitan South Regional Business Unit

   November 2005    21    50

Hi-Chang Roh

  

Vice President, Human Resource Development Center

   February 2003    36    54

In-Kyu Park

  

Vice President, Purchasing Strategy Office

   December 2004    22    51

 

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Table of Contents

Name(1)


  

Title and Responsibilities


  

Current

Position

Held Since


   Years
with the
Company


   Age

Sung-Man Kim

  

Vice President, Ethics Management Office

   November 2003    24    50

Sang-Hong Lee

  

Vice President, Infra Laboratory

   November 2003    23    51

Young-Hui Lee

  

Vice President, Media Business Unit

   February 2002    26    49

Ok-Kie Lee

  

Vice President, Marketing Business Unit

   November 2003    23    48

Young-Whan Kim

  

Vice President, Customer Group

   February 2002    24    49

Won-Joong Song

  

Vice President, Sales Business Unit

   November 2003    31    51

Kyung-Choon Shin

  

Vice President, Customer Service Business Unit

   November 2003    26    52

Yu-Yeol Seo

  

Vice President, Corporate Customer Sales Business Unit

   November 2003    28    50

Tae-Il Park

  

Vice President, Network Management Business Unit

   February 2003    29    51

Dong-Hoon Han

  

Vice President, Technology Support Business Unit

   November 2003    26    47

Yoon-Hak Bang

  

Vice President, Network Technology Laboratory

   November 2003    23    49

Tae-Poong Kang

  

Vice President, Metropolitan North Regional Business Unit

   November 2003    27    52

Deok-Kyum Kim

  

Vice President, Metropolitan West Regional Business Unit

   November 2003    24    49

Young-Gwun Kim

  

Vice President, Jeonnam Regional Business Unit

   December 2004    32    51

Deok-Rae Lim

  

Vice President, Chungnam Regional Business Unit

   February 2002    26    52

Young-Goon Yoo

  

Vice President, Kangwon Regional Business Unit

   February 2003    24    51

Sang-Heon Song

  

Vice President, Chungbuk Regional Business Unit

   February 2003    27    48

Heon-Yong Park

  

Vice President, Strategy Planning Office

   January 2007    20    45

Tae-Ho Kim

  

Vice President, Innovation Driving Center

   November 2006    21    46

Tae-Yol Yoo

  

Vice President, Management Research Laboratory

   November 2005    23    47

Seok-Keun Oh

  

Vice President, Corporate Relations Support Office

   September 2005    2    45

Won-Sang Park

  

Vice President, Corporate Relations Office

   January 2007    22    48

Yong-Seog Choi

  

Vice President, Human Resource Office

   January 2007    20    47

Ouk-Jung Hwang

  

Vice President, Real Assets Management Office

   December 2005    32    52

Kie-You Song

  

Vice President, Financial Management Office

   March 2005    17    47

Gil-Joo Lee

  

Vice President, Public Relations Office

   March 2005    31    51

Sang-Choon Kim

  

Vice President, Ethics Management Office

   January 2007    30    50

Dong-Myun Lee

  

Vice President, BcN Business Unit

   March 2005    16    44

Kil-Ho Song

  

Vice President, Future Technology Laboratory

   December 2004    16    54

Ju-Kyo Shim

  

Vice President, Media Business Unit

   January 2007    26    48

Jong-Jin Chae

  

Vice President, Solution Business Unit

   March 2005    21    45

Kyung-Seok Park

  

Vice President, Solution Business Unit

   January 2007    21    49

Suk-Joon Park

  

Vice President, Information Security Business Unit

   December 2004    26    49

Byoung-Seon Jeon

  

Vice President, Marketing Laboratory

   March 2005    8    46

Sang-Eun Woo

  

Vice President, U-City Public Sector Sales Business Unit

   March 2005    32    51

Sang-Won Seo

  

Vice President, IT Business Unit

   March 2006    31    51

Sun-Cheol Gweon

  

Vice President, Network Engineering Business Unit

   December 2004    16    45

Hyung-Oak Park

  

Vice President, Network Engineering Business Unit

   January 2007    33    52

 

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Table of Contents

Name(1)


  

Title and Responsibilities


  

Current

Position

Held Since


   Years
with the
Company


   Age

Myung-Dong Kim

  

Vice President, Gwanghwamoon District Office

   January 2007    27    50

Il-Sung Nam

  

Vice President, Busan Regional Business Unit

   December 2005    24    52

Dae-Jeon Roh

  

Vice President, Daegu Regional Business Unit

   December 2005    23    48

Sung-Ho Myung

  

Vice President, Jeonbuk Regional Business Unit

   March 2005    23    49

Young-Nam Lee

  

Vice President, Jeju Regional Business Unit

   November 2006    25    51

Sang-Hoon Lee

  

Executive Vice President(2)

   November 2005    16    52

Tae-Soek Ro

  

Executive Vice President(2)

   November 2005    27    52

Jeong-Tae Park

  

Vice President(2)

   February 2003    23    47

Joun-Il Koo

  

Vice President(2)

   January 2007    29    52

Seong-Beom Kim

  

Vice President(2)

   December 2004    23    50

(1) All of our executive officers beneficially own less than one percent of the issued shares of KT Corporation in the aggregate.
(2) Currently on sabbatical.

 

Item 6.B. Compensation

 

Compensation of Directors and Executive Officers

 

In 2006, the total amount of salaries, bonuses and allowances paid and accrued to all standing directors and executive officers of KT Corporation for services in all capacities was approximately Won 15 billion. The aggregate amount accrued by us to provide retirement benefits to such persons was Won 3 billion in 2006. Outside directors do not receive salaries or retirement and severance benefits, but we pay expenses related to the execution of their duties.

 

The chairman of the president nominating committee enters into an employment agreement on our behalf with our current President. The employment agreement sets certain management targets to be achieved by the President, including a target for the amount of “economic value added” to be achieved in each year. Economic value added is defined as net operating profits after tax minus the cost of capital. Failure to achieve certain thresholds below the targets will allow the board of directors to take actions with respect to the President’s employment, including proposing to the shareholders’ meeting an early termination of his employment. In addition, the head of each of our functional departments and the heads of each regional head office have entered into employment agreements with the President that provides for similar management targets to be achieved by each of our departments and regional head offices.

 

Item 6.C. Board Practices

 

As of December 31, 2006, none of our standing or outside directors maintained directors’ service contracts with us or with any of our subsidiaries providing for benefits upon termination of employment.

 

Outside Director Candidate Recommendation Committee

 

The Outside Director Candidate Recommendation Committee consists of one standing director and all of our outside directors, other than for election of an outside director resulting from the expiration of the term of the office, in which case such outside director whose term is expiring may not be a member of the committee. The committee formed in connection with the recommendation of outside director candidates in March 2007 comprised of Jong-Kyoo Yoon, Kook-Hyun Moon, Stuart B. Solomon, Do-Hwan Kim, Thae-Surn Khwarg and Jeong-Soo Suh, and the chairman was Jong-Kyoo Yoon. The committee’s duties include reviewing the qualifications of potential candidates and proposing nominees to serve as outside directors on our board of directors. The committee members’ terms expire immediately after the adjournment of the shareholders’ meeting where the outside directors are elected.

 

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Table of Contents

Evaluation and Compensation Committee

 

The Evaluation and Compensation Committee is currently comprised of five outside directors, Jong-Kyoo Yoon, Stuart B. Solomon, Do-Hwan Kim, Jeong-Ro Yoon and Thae-Surn Khwarg. The chairman is Jong-Kyoo Yoon. The committee’s duties include the appointment of an outside management evaluation consulting firm, prior review of the President’s management goals, terms and conditions proposed for inclusion in the employment contract of the President, including, but not limited to, determining whether the President has achieved the management goals, and the determination of compensation of the President and the standing directors. The committee members are elected by the board after the closing of the annual meeting, and the term of the committee members is for one year.

 

Executive Committee

 

The Executive Committee is currently comprised of all of the standing directors. The chairman is Joong-Soo Nam. The committee’s duties include the establishment and management of branch offices, the acquisition and disposal of real estate having market value between Won 10 billion to Won 30 billion, making investments and providing guarantees up to Won 10 billion, the disposal and sale of stocks of our subsidiaries, which stocks have a market value of between Won 10 billion and Won 30 billion, provided that no change of control with respect to such subsidiary occurs as a result of such disposal or sale, the authorization of charitable contributions between Won 100 million to Won 1 billion and the issuance of certain debt securities.

 

Related Transactions Committee

 

The Insider Trading Committee is currently comprised of four outside directors, Thae-Surn Khwarg, Kook-Hyun Moon, Kon-Sik Kim and Paul Chang Yi. The chairman is Thae-Surn Khwarg. This committee reviews transactions between KT Corporation and its subsidiaries and ensures compliance with applicable antitrust laws. The committee members are elected by the board after the annual meeting, and the term of the committee members is for one year.

 

Audit Committee

 

Under the Securities and Exchange Act of Korea, we are required to establish an audit committee comprised of three or more outside directors. Audit Committee members must also meet the applicable independence criteria set forth under the rules and regulations of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The committee is currently comprised of Do-Hwan Kim, Jeong-Ro Yoon, Kon-Sik Kim and Jong-Kyoo Yoon. The chairman is Do-Hwan Kim. Members of the committee are elected by our shareholders at the shareholder’s meeting. Our internal and external auditor report directly to the committee.

 

The duties of the committee include:

 

   

engaging independent auditors;

 

   

evaluating performance of independent auditors;

 

   

approving services to be provided by the independent auditors;

 

   

reviewing annual financial statements;

 

   

reviewing audit results and reports;

 

   

reviewing and evaluating our system of internal controls and policies; and

 

   

examining improprieties or suspected improprieties.

 

In addition, in connection with the shareholders’ meeting, the committee examines the agenda for, and financial statement and other reports to be submitted by the board of directors, at each shareholders’ meeting.

 

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Table of Contents

Differences in Corporate Governance Practices

 

Pursuant to the rules of the New York Stock Exchange applicable to foreign private issuers like us that are listed on the New York Stock Exchange, we are required to disclose significant differences between the New York Stock Exchange’s corporate governance standards and those that we follow under Korean law and in accordance with our own internal procedures. The following is a summary of such significant differences.

 

NYSE Corporate Governance Standards


 

KT Corporation’s Corporate Governance Practice


Director independence

Independent directors must comprise a majority of the board.

 

The Securities and Exchange Act of Korea requires that our board of directors must comprise no less than a majority of outside directors. Our outside directors must meet the criteria for outside directorship set forth under the Securities and Exchange Act of Korea.

 

The majority of our board of directors is independent (as defined in accordance with the New York Stock Exchange’s standards), and 8 out of 11 directors are outside directors.

Nomination/Corporate Governance Committee

Listed companies must have a nomination/corporate governance committee composed entirely of independent directors.

  We have not established a separate nomination/corporate governance committee. However, we maintain an Outside Director Candidate Recommendation Committee composed of all of our outside directors and one standing director.

Compensation Committee

Listed companies must have a compensation committee composed entirely of independent directors.

  We maintain an Evaluation and Compensation Committee composed of five outside directors.

Executive Session

Listed companies must hold meetings solely attended by non-management directors to more effectively check and balance management directors.

  Our outside directors hold meetings solely attended by outside directors in accordance with the charter of our board of directors.

Audit Committee

Listed companies must have an audit committee that is composed of more than three directors and satisfy the requirements of Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act.

  We maintain an Audit Committee comprised of four outside directors who meet the applicable independence criteria set forth under Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act.

Shareholder Approval of Equity Compensation Plan

Listed companies must allow its shareholders to exercise their voting rights with respect to any material revision to the company’s equity compensation plan.

 

We currently have two equity compensation plans: one providing for the grant of stock options to officers and directors; and an employee stock ownership association program.

 

All material matters related to the granting stock options are provided in our articles of incorporation, and any amendments to the articles of incorporation are subject to shareholders’ approval. Matters related to the employee stock ownership association program are not subject to shareholders’ approval under Korean law.

 

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Table of Contents

NYSE Corporate Governance Standards


 

KT Corporation’s Corporate Governance Practice


Corporate Governance Guidelines

Listed companies must adopt and disclose corporate governance guidelines.

  We have adopted Corporate Governance Guidelines in March 2007 setting forth our practices with respect to corporate governance matters. Our Corporate Governance Guidelines are in compliance with Korean law but do not meet all requirements established by the New York Stock Exchange for U.S. companies listed on the exchange. A copy of our Corporate Governance Guidelines in Korean is available on our website at www.kt.co.kr.

Code of Business Conduct and Ethics

Listed companies must adopt and disclose a code of business conduct and ethics for directors, officers and employees, and promptly disclose any waivers of the code for or executive officers.

  We have adopted a Code of Ethics for all directors, officers and employees. A copy of our Code of Ethics in Korean is available on our website at www.kt.co.kr.

 

Item 6.D. Employees

 

KT Corporation had 37,514 employees as of December 31, 2006, compared to 37,904 employees as of December 31, 2005 and 37,703 employees as of December 31, 2004. KTF had 2,505 employees as of December 31, 2006, compared to 2,492 employees as of December 31, 2005 and 2,441 employees as of December 31, 2004.

 

The Voluntary Early Retirement Programs

 

We sponsor voluntary early retirement programs where we provide additional financial incentives for our employees to retire early, as part of our efforts to improve operational efficiencies. In 2004, 346 employees retired under KT Corporation’s voluntary early retirement plan. Another 118 employees and 564 employees retired under KT Corporation’s voluntary early retirement plan in 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

Labor Relations

 

We consider our current relations with our work force to be good. However, in the past, we have experienced opposition from our labor union for our strategy of restructuring to improve our efficiency and profitability by disposing of non-core businesses and reducing our employee base.

 

Under Korean labor law, our employees are permitted to strike. However, because the maintenance of our network is in the public interest, the Government has the authority to mediate or arbitrate any strike, as well as any disagreement involving the collective bargaining process. Criminal proceedings may be brought against any party refusing Government mediation or arbitration. The current collective bargaining agreement provides that even in the event of a strike, the minimum number of employees necessary to operate the telecommunications business must continue to work.

 

As of March 31, 2007, about 80.6% of all employees of KT Corporation were members of the KT Trade Union. On behalf of its members, the Union negotiates with us a collective bargaining agreement every two years and an annual agreement on wages. Our current collective bargaining agreement expires in August 2007. Our annual agreement on wages, which became effective on October 10, 2006, provides for no increase in base salary, monthly deposit of Won 50,000 to each employee’s pension starting in January 2007 for up to ten years and implementation of a welfare loan program. Under the Act of the Promotion of Worker’s Participation and Cooperation, our Employee-Employer Cooperation Committees, which are composed of representatives of management and labor for each business unit and regional office, meet quarterly to discuss employee grievances, working conditions and potential employee-initiated improvements in service or management.

 

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Table of Contents

Employee Stock Ownership and Benefits

 

We have an employee stock ownership association, which may purchase on behalf of its members up to 20.0% of any of our shares offered publicly in Korea. The employee stock ownership association owned 6.3% of our issued shares as of December 31, 2006.

 

We maintain a retirement and severance plan, as required by Korean labor law. Employees terminating their employment after one year or more of service are entitled to receive a lump-sum payment based upon the length of their service and their wage rates, with adjustments, at the time of termination. We make provision for our obligations under the retirement plan. In addition, we provide a wide range of fringe benefits to our employees, including physical education grants, meal allowances, housing, housing loans, medical examinations and training and resort centers. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Item 5.A. Operating Results—Salaries and Related Costs.”

 

Employee Training

 

Our training and development program is largely categorized into development of specialists, development of personnel for new growth businesses, development of key employees and training to promote innovation. Training to develop specialists and personnel for new growth businesses takes place at our training center in Daejeon as well as other regional training centers. We operate KT Leadership Academy in Wonju for the development of leadership and managerial skills of our officers and employees. We also sponsor members of our key employees to graduate programs in Korean and foreign universities. In order to develop innovation competency as one of our core competencies, we operate KT Innovation Academy in Naju and train our employees to challenge themselves and to pursue objectives with passion and a sense of ownership. We also assist our employees in their professional development efforts, such as providing financial assistance in order for our employees to obtain professional licenses related to their work.

 

Item 6.E. Share Ownership

 

Common Stock

 

The persons who are currently our directors held, as a group, 48,543 common shares as of April 10, 2007, the most recent date for which this information is available. This represented approximately 0.02% of our outstanding common shares as of April 10, 2007. The table below shows the ownership of our common shares by directors.

 

Shareholders


   Number of
Common Shares Owned


Jong-Soo Nam

   24,981

Jong-Lok Yoon

   6,877

Jeong-Soo Suh

   8,413

Jeong-Ro Yoon

   1,327

Paul Chang Yi (Chang Yub Yi)

   90

Kook-Hyun Moon

   1,327

Stuart B. Solomon

   607

Do-Hwan Kim

   1,327

Kon-Sik Kim

   920

Thae-Surn Khwarg

   1,347

Jong-Kyoo Yoon

   1,327

 

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Table of Contents

Stock Options

 

The following table sets forth information regarding the stock options we have granted to our current directors and executive officers as of March 31, 2007. With respect to all of the options granted, we may elect either to issue shares of common stock or pay in cash the difference between the exercise and the market price at the date of exercise. All of the stock options listed below relate to our common shares.

 

Directors and Executive
Officers


   Grant Date

   Exercise Period

  

Exercise

Price


  

Number of

Granted

Options


   

Number of

Exercised

Options


  

Number of

Exercisable

Options


 
      From

   To

          

Hi-Chang Roh

   February 4, 2005    2/5/2007    2/4/2012    (Won) 54,600    60,000  (1)   0    43,153 (1)

(1) Of which, 16,847 stock options are performance based and remain subject to change according to performance.

 

Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions

 

Item 7.A. Major Shareholders

 

The following table sets forth certain information relating to the shareholders of our common stock as of December 31, 2006:

 

Shareholders


   Number of
Shares


   Percent of
Total
Shares Issued


 

Employee stock ownership association

   17,614,163    6.30 %

National Pension Corporation

   6,353,875    2.27  

Directors as a group

   22,395    0.00 (2)

Public

   184,104,745    65.85  

KT Corporation (held in the form of treasury stock)(1)

   71,532,222    25.58  
    
  

Total issued shares

   279,627,400    100.00 %
    
  


(1) Includes 1,259,170 shares of treasury stock owned by our treasury stock fund.
(2) Less than 0.01%.

 

Before 1993, the Government owned all of our shares. Since 1993, the Government has gradually reduced its ownership and completed the disposition of its ownership interest in us in May 2002.

 

For a discussion of our relationship with the Government, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Item 4.B. Business Overview—Relationship with the Government.” For a discussion of the Government’s dispositions and plans for future dispositions of shares, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Item 4.C. Organizational Structure.”

 

Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions

 

We have issued guarantees of Won 73 billion as of December 31, 2004, Won 43 billion as of December 31, 2005 and Won 35 billion as of December 31, 2006, in favor of our consolidated subsidiaries. We have also engaged in various transactions with our subsidiaries and affiliated companies. See Note 2(a) to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Item 7.C. Interests of Experts and Counsel

 

Not applicable.

 

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Table of Contents

Item 8. Financial Information

 

Item 8.A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

 

See “Item 18—Financial Statements” and pages F-1 through U-36.

 

Legal Proceedings

 

Dispute with the Fair Trade Commission

 

In July 2004, the Fair Trade Commission began an antitrust investigation into alleged unfair collaborative practices of us, Hanaro, LG DACOM and Onse in local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance telephone service markets, as well as in broadband Internet access and Internet leased line service markets. On May 25, 2005, the Fair Trade Commission imposed fines of Won 116 billion on us, Won 2 billion on Hanaro and Won 1 billion on LG DACOM, claiming that we and these other companies engaged in unfair collaborative practices in local telephone and Internet leased line service markets. On September 14, 2005, the Fair Trade Commission imposed an additional fine of Won 24 billion on us for our alleged unfair collaborative practices in domestic and international long-distance telephone service markets. We were following administrative guidelines from the Ministry of Information and Communication, which had advised that we, as a dominant service provider in these telephone service markets, assist late market entrants in order to promote more competitive telephone service markets in Korea. The legality of such administrative guidelines from the Ministry of Information and Communication has been disputed by the Fair Trade Commission. We filed for judicial review of administrative actions related to local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance telephone service markets, but we cannot give any assurance that the ultimate outcome of the lawsuit or related future actions will be favorable to us or reduce the amount of fine imposed on us. As a result of the ruling by the Fair Trade Commission, we have recorded Won 140 billion as taxes and dues under operating expenses in 2005 and paid such amount in 2006.

 

Proceedings by the Ministry of Information and Communication

 

From June 2000 to March 2006, the Government prohibited wireless service providers from providing subsidies to subscribers for purchase of handsets. During this period, the Ministry of Information and Communication imposed fines on entities deemed to be in violation of such prohibition. From time to time, KTF and we have been subject to such fines, including the largest fines to date on June 26, 2006 of Won 12 billion to KTF. KTF and we have paid all of the assessed fines. SK Telecom and LG Telecom have also been assessed fines for providing subsidies to subscribers purchasing of handsets.

 

Dispute with Kookmin Credit Information

 

We had entered into a contract with Kookmin Credit Information Inc. for collection of receivables, which contract we terminated in October 2002 due to labor strikes at Kookmin Credit Information. In December 2003, Kookmin Credit Information filed a claim against us in the Seoul Southern District Court for civil damages of Won 36.2 billion arising from the termination of contract. The Seoul Southern District Court ruled in our favor, which decision was appealed for civil damages of Won 22.7 billion by Kookmin Credit Information. We filed a counterclaim against Kookmin Credit Information for civil damages arising from breach of contract. The case is pending review by the Seoul High Court.

 

Miscellaneous

 

We are a defendant in various court proceedings involving claims for civil damages arising in the ordinary course of our business. While we are unable to predict the ultimate disposition of these claims, in the opinion of our management, the ultimate disposition of these claims will not, taken as a whole, have a material adverse effect on us.

 

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Dividends

 

The table below sets out the annual dividends declared on the outstanding common stock to shareholders of record on December 31 of the years indicated and the interim dividends declared on the outstanding common stock to shareholders of record on June 30 of the years indicated.

 

Year


   Annual Dividend per
Common Stock


   Interim Dividend per
Common Stock


   Average Total
Dividend per
Common Stock


     (In Won)    (In Won)    (In Won)

2002

   860    —      860

2003

   2,000    —      2,000

2004

   2,000    1,000    3,000

2005

   2,000    1,000    3,000

2006

   2,000    —      2,000

 

If sufficient profits are available, the Board of Directors may propose annual dividends on the outstanding common stock, which our shareholders must approve by a resolution at the ordinary general meeting of shareholders. This meeting is generally held in March of the following year and if our shareholders at such ordinary general meeting of shareholders approve the annual dividend, we must pay such dividend within one month following the date of such resolution. Typically, we pay such dividends shortly after the meeting. The declaration of annual dividends is subject to the vote of our shareholders, and consequently, there can be no assurance as to the amount of dividends per common stock or that any such dividends will be declared. Interim dividends paid in cash can be declared by a resolution of the board of directors. See “Item 10. Additional Information—Item 10.B. Memorandum and Articles of Association—Dividends” and “Item 12. Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities—Description of American Depositary Shares—Dividends and Distributions.”

 

The Commercial Code provides that shares of a company of the same class must receive equal treatment. However, major shareholders may consent to receive dividend distributions at a lesser rate than minor shareholders. Previously, the Government consented to receiving a smaller dividend compared to other shareholders. The Government no longer holds any interest in us.

 

Any cash dividends relating to the shares held in the form of ADSs will be paid to the depositary bank in Won. The deposit agreement provides that, except in certain circumstances, cash dividends received by the depositary bank will be converted by the depositary bank into Dollars and distributed to the holders of the ADRs, less withholding tax, other governmental charges and the depositary bank’s fees and expenses. See “Item 12. Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities—Description of the American Depositary Shares—Dividends and Distributions.”

 

Item 8.B. Significant Changes

 

Not applicable.

 

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Item 9. The Offer and Listing

 

Item 9.A. Offer and Listing Details

 

Market Price Information

 

Common Stock

 

Our shares were listed on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange on December 23, 1998. The price of the shares on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange as of the close of trading on June 26, 2007 was Won 43,800 per share. The table below shows the high and low closing prices and the average daily volume of trading activity on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange for the shares.

 

     Price

  

Average Daily

Trading Volume


     High

   Low

  
     (In Won)    (Number of shares)

2001

   81,900    40,500    716,042

2002

   65,000    41,350    1,261,121

2003

   53,600    41,900    867,991

2004

   47,550    34,200    577,620

2005

   45,150    37,600    539,707

First quarter

   43,200    39,400    464,673

Second quarter

   43,250    37,600    452,912

Third quarter

   44,050    38,750    564,511

Fourth quarter

   45,150    40,850    671,389

2006

   49,350    37,650    708,140

First quarter

   40,900    37,800    736,322

Second quarter

   43,150    38,200    822,310

Third quarter

   42,100    37,650    489,828

Fourth quarter

   49,350    39,550    791,704

2007 (through June 26)

   48,000    40,150    788,272

First quarter

   48,000    42,050    649,901

January

   48,000    42,900    607,954

February

   44,600    42,050    681,724

March

   43,800    42,100    665,053

Second quarter (through June 26)

   46,450    40,150    936,185

April

   41,950    40,150    902,355

May

   45,200    41,600    863,245

June (through June 26)

   46,450    42,950    1,076,321

Source: Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange.

 

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ADSs

 

The outstanding ADSs, each of which represents one-half of one share of our common stock, are traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange.

 

The price of the ADSs on the New York Stock Exchange as of the close of trading on June 26, 2006 was $23.38 per ADS. The table below shows the high and low trading prices and the average daily volume of trading activity on the New York Stock Exchange for our ADSs since May 25, 1999.

 

     Price

  

Average Daily

Trading Volume


     High

   Low

  
     (In US$)    (Number of ADSs)

2001

   39.88    16.39    1,085,253

2002

   24.64    18.12    1,084,210

2003

   22.58    16.85    878,552

2004

   22.73    16.57    671,995

2005

   23.21    19.75    457,082

First quarter

   23.21    20.98    466,382

Second quarter

   22.01    19.75    501,606

Third quarter

   22.50    19.99    391,755

Fourth quarter

   22.78    20.89    469,211

2006

   26.66    20.11    562,859

First quarter

   22.05    20.20    684,553

Second quarter

   24.20    20.14    517,903

Third quarter

   22.37    20.11    462,711

Fourth quarter

   26.66    20.74    588,200

2007 (through June 26)

   25.82    21.82    603,487

First quarter

   25.82    22.01    557,559

January

   25.82    22.92    477,600

February

   23.61    22.01    631,718

March

   23.31    22.14    566,202

Second quarter (through June 26)

   24.72    21.82    650,181

April

   22.74    21.82    656,917

May

   24.39    22.51    731,498

June (through June 26)

   24.72    23.14    543,308

Source: New York Stock Exchange.

 

Item 9.B. Plan of Distribution

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 9.C. Markets

 

The Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange

 

The Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange began its operations in 1956. Currently it is the only stock exchange in Korea. It has a single trading floor located in Seoul. The Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange is a non-profit making organization privately managed by its members, consisting of all Korean securities companies and some Korean branches of foreign securities companies.

 

The Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange has the power in some circumstances to suspend trading in the shares of a given company or to de-list a security. The Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange also restricts share price movements. All listed companies are required to file accounting reports annually and quarterly and to release immediately all information that may affect trading in a security.

 

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The Government has in the past exerted, and continues to exert, substantial influence over many aspects of the private sector business community which can have the intention or effect of depressing or boosting the market. In the past, the Government has informally both encouraged and restricted the declaration and payment of dividends, induced mergers to reduce what it considers excess capacity in a particular industry and induced private companies to offer publicly their securities.

 

The Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange publishes the Korea Composite Stock Price Index every two seconds, which is an index of all equity securities listed on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange. On January 1, 1983, the method of computing the Korea Composite Stock Price Index was changed from the Dow Jones method to the aggregate value method. In the new method, the market capitalizations of all listed companies are aggregated, subject to certain adjustments, and this aggregate is expressed as a percentage of the aggregate market capitalization of all listed companies as of the base date, January 4, 1980.

 

Movements in Korea Composite Stock Price Index are set out in the following table together with the associated dividend yields and price earnings ratios.

 

                         Period Average

Year


   Opening

   High

   Low

   Closing

  

Dividend

Yield(1)(2)

(Percent)


  

Price

Earnings

Ratio(2)(3)


1979

   131.28    131.28    104.38    118.97    17.8    3.8

1980

   100.00    119.36    100.00    106.87    20.9    2.6

1981

   97.95    165.95    93.14    131.37    13.2    3.1

1982

   123.60    134.48    106.00    128.99    10.5    3.4

1983

   122.52    134.46    115.59    121.21    6.9    3.8

1984

   115.25    142.46    115.25    142.46    5.1    4.5

1985

   139.53    163.37    131.40    163.37    5.3    5.2

1986

   161.40    279.67    153.85    272.61    4.3    7.6

1987

   264.82    525.11    264.82    525.11    2.6    10.9

1988

   532.04    922.56    527.89    907.20    2.4    11.2

1989

   919.61    1,007.77    844.75    909.72    2.0    13.9

1990

   908.59    928.82    566.27    696.11    2.2    12.8

1991

   679.75    763.10    586.51    610.92    2.6    11.2

1992

   624.23    691.48    459.07    678.44    2.2    10.9

1993

   697.41    874.10    605.93    866.18    1.6    12.7

1994

   879.32    1,138.75    855.37    1,027.37    1.2    16.2

1995

   1,027.45    1,016.77    847.09    882.94    1.2    16.4

1996

   882.29    986.84    651.22    651.22    1.3    17.8

1997

   647.67    792.29    350.68    376.31    1.5    17.0

1998

   374.41    579.86    280.00    562.46    1.9    10.8

1999

   565.10    1,028.07    498.42    1,028.07    1.1    13.5

2000

   1,028.33    1,059.04    500.60    504.62    1.6    18.6

2001

   503.31    704.50    468.76    693.70    2.0    14.2

2002

   698.00    937.61    584.04    627.55    1.4    17.8

2003

   633.03    822.16    515.24    810.71    2.2    10.9

2004

   821.26    936.06    719.59    895.92    2.1    15.8

2005

   896.00    1,379.37    870.84    1,379.37    1.7    11.0

2006

   1,383.32    1,464.70    1,203.86    1,434.46    1.7    11.4

2007 (through June 26)

   1,438.89    1,813.84    1,345.08    1,749.55    1.8    12.1

Source:    The Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange

(1) Dividend yields are based on daily figures. Before 1983, dividend yields were calculated at the end of each month. Dividend yields after January 3, 1984 include cash dividends only.

 

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(2) Starting in April 2000, dividend yield and price earnings ratio are calculated based on KOSPI 200, an index of 200 equity securities listed on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange. Starting in April 2000, excludes classified companies, companies which did not submit annual reports to the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange, and companies which received qualified opinion from external auditors.
(3) The price earnings ratio is based on figures for companies that record a profit in the preceding year.

 

Shares are quoted “ex-dividend” on the first trading day of the relevant company’s accounting period; since the calendar year is the accounting period for the majority of listed companies, this may account for the drop in the Korea Composite Stock Price Index between its closing level at the end of one calendar year and its opening level at the beginning of the following calendar year.

 

With certain exceptions, principally to take account of a share being quoted “ex-dividend” and “ex-rights,” permitted upward and downward movements in share prices of any category of shares on any day are limited under the rules of the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange to 15% of the previous day’s closing price of the shares, rounded down as set out below:

 

Previous Days’ Closing Price


   Rounded Down To

Less than (Won)5,000

   (Won) 5

(Won)5,000 to less than (Won)10,000

   (Won) 10

(Won)10,000 to less than (Won)50,000

   (Won) 50

(Won)50,000 to less than (Won)100,000

   (Won) 100

(Won)100,000 to less than (Won)500,000

   (Won) 500

(Won)500,000 or more

   (Won) 1,000

 

As a consequence, if a particular closing price is the same as the price set by the fluctuation limit, the closing price may not reflect the price at which persons would have been prepared, or would be prepared to continue, if so permitted, to buy and sell shares. Orders are executed on an auction system with priority rules to deal with competing bids and offers.

 

Due to a deregulation of restrictions on brokerage commission rates, the brokerage commission rate on equity securities transactions may be determined by the parties, subject to commission schedules being filed with the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange by the securities companies. In addition, a securities transaction tax will generally be imposed on the transfer of shares or certain securities representing rights to subscribe for shares at the rate of 0.15% if such transfer is made through the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange. A special agricultural and fishery tax of 0.15% of the sales prices will also be imposed on transfer of these shares and securities on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange. See “Item 10. Additional Information—Item 10.A. Taxation—Korean Taxation.”

 

The number of companies listed on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange, the corresponding total market capitalization at the end of the periods indicated and the average daily trading volume for those periods are set forth in the following table:

 

    

Market Capitalization

on the Last Day of Each Period


  

Average Daily Trading

Volume, Value


Year


   Number of
Listed
Companies


   (Billions
of Won)


   (Millions
of
Dollars)(1)


   Thousands
of Shares


   (Millions
of Won)


   (Thousands
of
Dollars)(1)


1979

   355    2,609    5,391    5,382    4,579    4,641

1980

   352    2,527    3,829    5,654    3,897    5,905

1981

   343    2,959    4,224    10,565    8,708    12,432

1982

   334    3,000    4,408    9,704    6,667    8,904

1983

   328    3,490    4,387    9,325    5,941    7,468

1984

   336    5,149    6,223    14,847    10,642    12,862

 

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Market Capitalization

on the Last Day of Each Period


  

Average Daily Trading

Volume, Value


Year


   Number of
Listed
Companies


   (Billions
of Won)


   (Millions
of
Dollars)(1)


   Thousands
of Shares


   (Millions of
Won)


   (Thousands
of
Dollars)(1)


1985

   342    6,570    7,381    18,925    12,315    13,834

1986

   355    11,994    13,924    31,755    32,870    38,159

1987

   389    26,172    33,033    20,353    70,185    88,583

1988

   502    64,544    94,348    10,367    198,364    289,963

1989

   626    95,477    140,490    11,757    280,967    414,430

1990

   669    79,020    110,301    10,866    183,692    256,411

1991

   686    73,118    96,107    14,022    214,263    281,629

1992

   688    84,712    107,448    24,028    308,246    390,977

1993

   693    112,665    139,420    35,130    574,048    710,367

1994

   699    151,217    191,730    36,862    776,257    984,223

1995

   721    141,151    182,201    26,130    487,762    629,613

1996

   760    117,370    139,031    26,571    486,834    575,680

1997

   776    70,989    50,162    41,525    555,759    392,707

1998

   748    137,799    114,091    97,716    660,429    546,803

1999

   725    349,504    305,137    278,551    3,481,620    3,039,655

2000

   704    188,042    149,275    306,163    2,602,211    2,065,739

2001

   689    255,850    192,934    473,241    1,997,420    1,506,237

2002

   683    258,681    215,496    857,245    3,041,598    2,533,815

2003

   684    355,363    296,679    542,010    2,216,636    1,850,589

2004

   683    412,588    395,275    372,895    2,232,109    2,138,445

2005

   702    655,075    646,158    467,629    3,157,662    3,114,679

2006

   731    704,588    757,948    279,096    3,435,180    3,695,331

2007 (through June 26)

   885    856,857    925,132    333,714    4,298,206    4,640,689

Source: The Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange
(1) Converted at the Concentration Base Rate of The Bank of Korea or the Market Average Exchange Rate as announced by the Seoul Money Brokerage Services Limited, as the case may be, at the end of the periods indicated.

 

The Korean securities markets are principally regulated by the Financial Supervisory Commission of Korea and the Securities and Exchange Act. The Securities and Exchange Act was amended fundamentally numerous times in recent years to broaden the scope and improve the effectiveness of official supervision of the securities markets. As amended, the law imposes restrictions on insider trading and price manipulation, requires specified information to be made available by listed companies to investors and establishes rules regarding margin trading, proxy solicitation, takeover bids, acquisition of treasury shares and reporting requirements for shareholders holding substantial interests.

 

Further Opening of the Korean Securities Market

 

A stock index futures market was opened on May 3, 1996 and a stock index option market was opened on July 7, 1997, in each case at the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange. Remittance and repatriation of funds in connection with investment in stock index futures and options are subject to regulations similar to those that govern remittance and repatriation in the context of foreign investment in Korean stocks.

 

Starting from May 1, 1996, foreign investors were permitted to invest in warrants representing the right to subscribe for shares of a company listed on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange or registered on the KOSDAQ Market Division of the Korea Exchange, subject to certain investment limitations. A foreign investor may not acquire such warrants with respect to shares of a class of a company for which the ceiling on aggregate investment by foreigners has been reached or exceeded.

 

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As of December 30, 1997, foreign investors were permitted to invest in all types of corporate bonds, bonds issued by national or local governments and bonds issued in accordance with certain special laws without being subject to any aggregate or individual investment ceiling. The Financial Supervisory Commission sets forth procedural requirements for such investments. The Government announced on February 8, 1998 its plans for the liberalization of the money market with respect to investment in money market instruments by foreigners in 1998. According to the plan, foreigners have been permitted to invest in money market instruments issued by corporations, including commercial paper, starting February 16, 1998 with no restrictions as to the amount. Starting May 25, 1998, foreigners have been permitted to invest in certificates of deposit and repurchase agreements.

 

Currently, foreigners are permitted to invest in securities including shares of all Korean companies which are not listed on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange nor registered on the KOSDAQ Market Division of the Korea Exchange and in bonds which are not listed.

 

Protection of Customer’s Interest in Case of Insolvency of Securities Companies

 

Under Korean law, the relationship between a customer and a securities company in connection with a securities sell or buy order is deemed to be consignment and the securities acquired by a consignment agent (i.e., the securities company) through such sell or buy order are regarded as belonging to the customer in so far as the customer and the consignment agent’s creditors are concerned. Therefore, in the event of a bankruptcy or reorganization procedure involving a securities company, the customer of the securities company is entitled to the proceeds of the securities sold by the securities company.

 

When a customer places a sell order with a securities company which is not a member of the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange and this securities company places a sell order with another securities company which is a member of the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange, the customer is still entitled to the proceeds of the securities sold received by the non-member company from the member company regardless of the bankruptcy or reorganization of the non-member company.

 

Under the Securities and Exchange Act, the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange is obliged to indemnify any loss or damage incurred by a counterparty as a result of a breach by its members. If a securities company which is a member of the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange breaches its obligation in connection with a buy order, the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange is obliged to pay the purchase price on behalf of the breaching member. Therefore, the customer can acquire the securities that have been ordered to be purchased by the breaching member.

 

When a customer places a buy order with a non-member company and the non-member company places a buy order with a member company, the customer has the legal right to the securities received by the non-member company from the member company because the purchased securities are regarded as belonging to the customer in so far as the customer and the non-member company’s creditors are concerned.

 

As the cash deposited with a securities company is regarded as belonging to the securities company, which is liable to return the same at the request of its customer, the customer cannot take back deposited cash from the securities company if a bankruptcy or reorganization procedure is instituted against the securities company and, therefore, can suffer from loss or damage as a result. However, the Depositor Protection Act provides that Korea Deposit Insurance Corporation will, upon the request of the investors, pay investors up to Won 50 million in case of the securities company’s bankruptcy, liquidation, cancellation of securities business license or other insolvency events. Pursuant to the Securities and Exchange Act, as amended, securities companies are required to deposit the cash received from its customers to the extent the amount not covered by the insurance with the Korea Securities Finance Corporation, a special entity established pursuant to the Securities and Exchange Act.

 

Set-off or attachment of cash deposits by securities companies is prohibited. The premiums related to this insurance are paid by securities companies.

 

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Item 9.D. Selling Shareholders

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 9.E. Dilution

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 9.F. Expenses of the Issuer

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 10. Additional Information

 

Item 10.A. Share Capital

 

Currently, our authorized share capital is 1,000,000,000 shares, which consists of shares of common stock, par value Won 5,000 per share (“Common Shares”) and shares of non-voting preferred stock, par value Won 5,000 per share (“Non-Voting Shares”). Common Shares and Non-Voting Shares together are referred to as “Shares.” Under our articles of incorporation, we are authorized to issue Non-Voting Shares up to one-fourth of our total issued capital stock. As of December 31, 2006, 279,627,400 Common Shares were issued, of which 71,532,222 shares were held by the treasury stock fund or us as treasury shares. We have never issued any Non-Voting Shares. All of the issued Common Shares are fully-paid and non-assessable and are in registered form. We issue share certificates in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 500, 1,000 and 10,000 shares.

 

Item 10.B. Memorandum and Articles of Association

 

This section provides information relating to our capital stock, including brief summaries of material provisions of our articles of incorporation, the Korean Securities and Exchange Act of 1962 (the “Securities and Exchange Act”), the Commercial Code and related laws of Korea, all as currently in effect. The following summaries are subject to, and are qualified in their entirety by reference to, our articles of incorporation and the applicable provisions of the Securities and Exchange Act and the Commercial Code. We have filed copies of our articles of incorporation and these laws as exhibits to registration statements under the Securities Act or the Securities Exchange Act previously filed by us.

 

Dividends

 

We distribute dividends to our shareholders in proportion to the number of shares owned by each shareholder. No dividends are distributed with respect to shares held by us or our treasury stock fund. The Common Shares represented by the ADSs have the same dividend rights as other outstanding Common Shares.

 

Holders of Non-Voting Shares are entitled to receive dividends in priority to the holders of Common Shares in an amount of not less than 9% of the par value of the Non-Voting Shares as determined by the board of directors at the time of their issuance, provided that if the dividends on the Common Shares exceed those on the Non-Voting Shares, the Non-Voting Shares will also participate in the distribution of such excess dividend amount in the same proportion as the Common Shares. If the amount available for dividends is less than the aggregate amount of such minimum dividend, the holders of Non-Voting Shares will be entitled to receive such accumulated unpaid dividend in priority to the holders of Common Shares from the dividends payable in respect of the next fiscal year.

 

We declare dividends annually at the annual general meeting of shareholders which is held within three months after the end of the fiscal year. We pay the annual dividend shortly after the annual general meeting to the shareholders of record as of the end of the preceding fiscal year. We may distribute the annual dividend in

 

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cash or in Shares. However, a dividend of Shares must be distributed at par value. If the market price of the Shares is less than their par value, dividends in Shares may not exceed one-half of the annual dividend. We may pay interim dividends in cash once a year to shareholders or registered pledgees who are registered in the registry of shareholders as of June 30 of each fiscal year by a resolution of the board of directors. We have no obligation to pay any annual dividend unclaimed for five years from the payment date.

 

Under the Commercial Code, we may pay our dividend only out of the excess of our net assets, on a non-consolidated basis, over the sum of (1) our stated capital and (2) the total amount of our capital surplus reserve and legal reserve accumulated up to the end of the relevant dividend period. In addition, we may not pay any dividend unless we have set aside as legal reserve an amount equal to at least 10% of the cash portion of the dividend or unless we have accumulated a legal reserve of not less than one-half of our stated capital. Financial Supervisory Commission regulations applicable to companies listed on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange requires us to set aside specified amounts as financial structure improvement reserve until the ratio of our shareholders’ equity to the total assets reaches 30.0%. We may not use legal reserve to pay cash dividends but may transfer amounts from legal reserve to capital stock or use legal reserve to reduce an accumulated deficit. See Note 21 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Distribution of Free Shares

 

In addition to paying dividends in Shares out of our retained or current earnings, we may also distribute to our shareholders an amount transferred from our capital surplus or legal reserve to our stated capital in the form of free shares. We must distribute such free shares to all our shareholders in proportion to their existing shareholdings.

 

Preemptive Rights and Issuance of Additional Shares

 

We may issue authorized but unissued shares at times and, unless otherwise provided in the Commercial Code, on terms our board of directors may determine. Subject to the limitation described in “Limitation on Shareholdings” below, all our shareholders are generally entitled to subscribe for any newly issued Shares in proportion to their existing shareholdings. We must offer new Shares on uniform terms to all shareholders who have preemptive rights and are listed on our shareholders’ register as of the relevant record date. Under the Commercial Code, we may vary, without shareholders’ approval, the terms of these preemptive rights for different classes of shares. We must give notice to all persons who are entitled to exercise preemptive rights regarding new Shares and their transferability at least two weeks before the relevant record date. Our board of directors may determine how to distribute Shares for which preemptive rights have not been exercised or where fractions of Shares occur.

 

Under the Commercial Code, it is required that the new Shares, convertible bonds or bonds with warrants be issued to persons other than the existing shareholders solely for the purpose of achieving managerial objectives. Under our articles of incorporation, we may issue new Shares pursuant to a board resolution to persons other than existing shareholders, who in these circumstances will not have preemptive rights, if the new Shares are:

 

   

publicly offered pursuant to the Securities and Exchange Act;

 

   

issued to members of our employee stock ownership association;

 

   

represented by depositary receipts;

 

   

issued upon exercise of stock options granted to our officers and employees;

 

   

issued through an offering to public investors, the amount of which is no more than 10% of the issued Shares;

 

   

issued in order to satisfy specific needs such as strategic alliance, inducement of foreign funds or new technology, improvement of financial structure or other capital raising requirement; or

 

   

issued to domestic or foreign financial institutions when necessary for raising funds in emergency cases.

 

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In addition, we may issue convertible bonds or bonds with warrants, each up to an aggregate principal amount of Won 2,000 billion, to persons other than existing shareholders in situations described above.

 

Members of our employee stock ownership association, whether or not they are our shareholders, generally have a preemptive right to subscribe for up to 20.0% of the Shares publicly offered pursuant to the Securities and Exchange Act. This right is exercisable only to the extent that the total number of Shares so acquired and held by members of our employee stock ownership association does not then exceed 20.0% of the total number of Shares then issued (including in such total both: (i) all issued and outstanding Shares at the time the preemptive rights are exercised; and (ii) all Shares to be newly issued in the applicable share issuance transaction in connection with which such preemptive rights are exercised). As of December 31, 2006, 6.3% of the issued Shares were held by members of our employee stock ownership association.

 

Limitation on Shareholdings

 

The Telecommunications Business Act permits maximum aggregate foreign shareholding in us to be 49.0% of our total issued and outstanding Shares with voting rights (including equivalent securities with voting rights, e.g., depositary certificates and certain other equity interests). For the purposes of the foregoing, a shareholder is a “foreign shareholder” if such shareholder is: (1) a foreign person; (2) a foreign government; or (3) a company whose largest shareholder is a foreign person (including any “specially related persons” as determined under the Securities and Exchange Act) or a foreign government, in circumstances where (i) such foreign person or foreign government holds, in aggregate, 15.0% or more of such company’s total voting shares, and (ii) such company holds at least 1.0% of our total issued and outstanding Shares with voting rights. For the avoidance of doubt, all of conditions (i) to (ii) in the foregoing item (3) must exist for such a company to be counted as a “foreign shareholder” for the purposes of calculating whether the 49.0% foreign shareholding threshold is reached under the Telecommunications Business Act. In addition, the Telecommunications Business Act prohibits a foreign shareholder from being our largest shareholder if such shareholder owns 5.0% or more of our Shares with voting rights. For the purposes of this restriction, any two or more foreign persons or foreign governments who enter into an agreement to act in concert in the exercise of their voting rights will be counted together and prohibited from becoming our largest shareholder in the event that they collectively hold 5.0% or more of our Shares. The Foreign Investment Promotion Act also prohibits any foreign shareholder from being our largest shareholder, if such shareholder owns 5.0% or more of our Shares with voting rights. For the purposes of this restriction under the Foreign Investment Promotion Act, a “foreign shareholder” is defined in the same manner as described above with respect to the foreign shareholding restriction under the Telecommunications Business Act, provided, however, that no exception is made under the Foreign Investment Promotion Act regulations for companies that own less than 1.0% of our Shares (see item (3)(ii) above in this paragraph). A foreigner who has acquired the Shares in excess of such ceiling described above may not exercise its voting rights for shares in excess of such limitation, and the Ministry of Information and Communication may require corrective measures to comply with the ownership restrictions.

 

General Meeting of Shareholders

 

We hold the annual general meeting of shareholders within three months after the end of each fiscal year. Subject to a board resolution or court approval, we may hold an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders:

 

   

as necessary;

 

   

at the request of holders of an aggregate of 3.0% or more of our issued Common Shares;

 

   

at the request of shareholders holding an aggregate of 1.5% or more of our issued Shares for at least six months; or

 

   

at the request of our audit committee.

 

Holders of Non-Voting Shares may request a general meeting of shareholders only after the Non-Voting Shares become entitled to vote or are enfranchised, as described under “—Voting Rights” below.

 

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We must give shareholders written notice setting out the date, place and agenda of the meeting at least two weeks before the date of the general meeting of shareholders. However, for holders of less than 1.0% of the total number of issued and outstanding Common Shares, we may give notice by placing at least two public notices in at least two daily newspapers at least two weeks in advance of the meeting. Currently, we use Seoul Shinmun, Maeil Business Newspaper and The Korea Economic Daily published in Seoul for this purpose. Shareholders not on the shareholders’ register as of the record date are not entitled to receive notice of the general meeting of shareholders or attend or vote at the meeting. Holders of Non-Voting Shares, unless enfranchised, are not entitled to receive notice of general meetings of shareholders, but may attend such meetings.

 

Our general meetings of shareholders are held at our head office, in Sungnam, or if necessary, may be held anywhere near our head office or in Seoul.

 

Voting Rights

 

Holders of our Common Shares are entitled to one vote for each Common Share, except that voting rights of Common Shares held by us, or by a corporate shareholder that is more than 10.0% owned by us either directly or indirectly, may not be exercised. The Commercial Code permits cumulative voting, under which voting method each shareholder has multiple voting rights corresponding to the number of directors to be appointed in the voting and may exercise all voting rights cumulatively to elect one director. Our articles of incorporation permit cumulative voting at our shareholders’ meeting. Under the Securities and Exchange Act, any shareholder holding shares equivalent to not less than 1/100 of the total number of shares issued may apply to us for selecting and appointing such directors by cumulative voting.

 

Our shareholders may adopt resolutions at a general meeting by an affirmative majority vote of the voting shares present or represented at the meeting, where the affirmative votes also represent at least one-fourth of our total voting shares then outstanding. However, under the Commercial Code and our articles of incorporation, the following matters require approval by the holders of at least two-thirds of the voting shares present or represented at a meeting, where the affirmative votes also represent at least one-third of our total voting shares then outstanding:

 

   

amending our articles of incorporation;

 

   

removing a director;

 

   

effecting any dissolution, merger or consolidation of us;

 

   

transferring the whole or any significant part of our business;

 

   

effecting our acquisition of all of the business of any other company or our acquisition of a part of the business of any other company which will significantly affect our business; or

 

   

issuing any new Shares at a price lower than their par value.

 

In general, holders of Non-Voting Shares are not entitled to vote on any resolution or receive notice of any general meeting of shareholders. However, in the case of amendments to our articles of incorporation, any merger or consolidation of us, or in some other cases that affect the rights or interests of the Non-Voting Shares, approval of the holders of Non-Voting Shares is required. We may obtain such approval by a resolution of holders of at least two-thirds of the Non-Voting Shares present or represented at a class meeting of the holders of Non-Voting Shares, where the affirmative votes also represent at least one-third of our total outstanding Non-Voting Shares. In addition, if we are unable to pay dividends on Non-Voting Shares as provided in our articles of incorporation, the holders of Non-Voting Shares will become enfranchised and will be entitled to exercise voting rights until those dividends are paid. The holders of enfranchised Non-Voting Shares have the same rights as holders of Common Shares to request, receive notice of, attend and vote at a general meeting of shareholders.

 

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Shareholders may exercise their voting rights by proxy. The proxy must present a document evidencing an appropriate power of attorney prior to the start of the general meeting of shareholders. Additionally, shareholders may exercise their voting rights in abstentia by submission of signed write-in voting forms. To make it possible for our shareholders to proceed with voting on a write-in basis, we are required to attach the appropriate write-in voting form and related informational material to the notices distributed to shareholders for convening the relevant general meeting of shareholders. Any of our shareholders who desires to vote on such write-in basis must submit their completed and signed write-in voting forms to us no later than one day prior to the date that the relevant general meeting of shareholders is convened.

 

Holders of ADRs exercise their voting rights through the ADR depositary, an agent of which is the record holder of the underlying Common Shares. Subject to the provisions of the deposit agreement, ADR holders are entitled to instruct the ADR depositary how to vote the Common Shares underlying their ADSs. See “Item 12. Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities—Description of American Depositary Shares—Voting Rights.”

 

Rights of Dissenting Shareholders

 

In some limited circumstances, including the transfer of the whole or any significant part of our business and our merger or consolidation with another company, dissenting shareholders have the right to require us to purchase their Shares. To exercise this right, shareholders must submit to us a written notice of their intention to dissent before the general meeting of shareholders. Within 20 days after the relevant resolution is passed at a meeting, the dissenting shareholders must request us in writing to purchase their Shares. We are obligated to purchase the Shares of dissenting shareholders within one month after the expiration of the 20-day period. The purchase price for the Shares is required to be determined through negotiation between the dissenting shareholders and us. If we cannot agree on a price through negotiation, the purchase price will be the average of (1) the weighted average of the daily Share prices on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange for the two-month period before the date of the adoption of the relevant board resolution, (2) the weighted average of the daily Share price on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange for the one month period before the date of the adoption of the relevant board resolution and (3) the weighted average of the daily Share price on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange for the one week period before the date of the adoption of the relevant board resolution. However, the Financial Supervisory Commission may intervene to adjust this price if we or any group of shareholders who hold in aggregate 30.0% or more of the total number of Shares that we are requested to purchase from dissenting shareholders do not accept the purchase price. Holders of ADSs will not be able to exercise dissenter’s rights unless they have withdrawn the underlying common stock and become our direct shareholders.

 

Register of Shareholders and Record Dates

 

Our transfer agent, Kookmin Bank, maintains the register of our shareholders at its office in Seoul, Korea. It registers transfers of Shares on the register of shareholders on presentation of the Share certificates.

 

The record date for annual dividends is December 31. For the purpose of determining the shareholders entitled to annual dividends, the register of shareholders may be closed for the period from the day after the record date to January 31 of the following year. Further, for the purpose of determining the shareholders entitled to some other rights pertaining to the Shares, we may, on at least two weeks’ public notice, set a record date and/or close the register of shareholders for not more than three months. The trading of Shares and the delivery of share certificates may continue while the register of shareholders is closed.

 

Annual Reports

 

At least one week before the annual general meeting of shareholders, we must make our annual report and audited non-consolidated financial statements available for inspection at our principal office and at all of our branch offices. In addition, copies of annual reports, the audited non-consolidated financial statements and any resolutions adopted at the general meeting of shareholders will be available to our shareholders.

 

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Under the Securities and Exchange Act, we must file with the Financial Supervisory Commission and the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange (1) an annual report within 90 days after the end of our fiscal year and (2) interim reports with respect to the three month period, six month period and nine month period from the beginning of each fiscal year within 45 calendar days following the end of each period. Copies of these reports are or will be available for public inspection at the Financial Supervisory Commission and the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange.

 

Transfer of Shares

 

Under the Commercial Code, the transfer of Shares is effected by delivery of share certificates. However, to assert shareholders’ rights against us, the transferee must have his name and address registered on our register of shareholders. For this purpose, a shareholder is required to file his name, address and seal with our transfer agent. A non-Korean shareholder may file a specimen signature in place of a seal, unless he is a citizen of a country with a sealing system similar to that of Korea. In addition, a non-resident shareholder must appoint an agent authorized to receive notices on his behalf in Korea and file a mailing address in Korea. The above requirements do not apply to the holders of ADSs.

 

Under current Korean regulations, Korean securities companies and banks, including licensed branches of non-Korean securities companies and banks, investment management companies, futures trading companies, internationally recognized foreign custodians and the Korea Securities Depository may act as agents and provide related services for foreign shareholders. Certain foreign exchange controls and securities regulations apply to the transfer of Shares by non-residents or non-Koreans. See “Item 10. Additional Information—Item 10.D. Exchange Controls.”

 

Our transfer agent is Kookmin Bank, located at 24-3, Yoido-dong, Youngdungpo-ku, Seoul, Korea.

 

Acquisition of Shares by Us

 

We may not acquire our own Shares except in limited circumstances, such as a reduction in capital. In addition, we may acquire Shares (including equivalent securities with voting rights, e.g., depository certificates and certain other equity interests), directly or indirectly through a trustee pursuant to the Trust Business Act Supervisory Regulations, through purchases on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange or through a tender offer. We may also acquire interests in our own Shares pursuant to (i) a trust agreement entered into with a asset management company established under the Indirect Investment Asset Management Business Act or with a trust company established under the Trust Business Act or (ii) indirectly by a contract for acquisition of shares issued by an investment company established under the Indirect Investment Asset Management Business Act and which investment company may from time to time hold Shares issued by us. The aggregate purchase price for the Shares may not exceed the total amount available for distribution of dividends at the end of the preceding fiscal year, subject to certain procedural requirements, provided that, in case of acquisition of our own Shares by us for the purpose of cancellation, the aggregate purchase price may not exceed the total amount available for distribution of dividends at the end of the preceding fiscal year minus certain reserves.

 

In general, corporate entities in which we own a 50.0% or more equity interest may not acquire our Shares.

 

As of December 31, 2006, there were 71,532,222 treasury shares. Our treasury stock fund held 1,259,170 treasury shares as of December 31, 2006.

 

Liquidation Rights

 

In the event of our liquidation, after payment of all debts, liquidation expenses and taxes, our remaining assets will be distributed among shareholders in proportion to their shareholdings. Holders of Non-Voting Shares have no preference in liquidation.

 

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Item 10.C. Material Contracts

 

None.

 

Item 10.D. Exchange Controls

 

General

 

The Foreign Exchange Transaction Act and the Presidential Decree and regulations under that Act and Decree (collectively the “Foreign Exchange Transaction Laws”) regulate investment in Korean securities by non-residents and issuance of securities outside Korea by Korean companies. Under the Foreign Exchange Transaction Laws, non-residents may invest in Korean securities only in compliance with the provisions of, and to the extent specifically allowed by, these laws or otherwise permitted by the Ministry of Finance and Economy. The Financial Supervisory Commission has also adopted, pursuant to its authority under the Korean Securities and Exchange Act, regulations that control investment by foreigners in Korean securities and regulate the issuance of securities outside Korea by Korean companies.

 

Under the Foreign Exchange Transaction Laws, if the Government deems that certain emergency circumstances, including, but not limited to, the outbreak of natural calamities, wars or grave and sudden changes in domestic or foreign economies, are likely to occur, the Ministry of Finance and Economy may temporarily suspend the transactions where Foreign Exchange Transaction Laws are applicable, or impose an obligation to deposit or sell capital to certain Korean governmental agencies or financial institutions. In addition, if the Government deems that it is confronted or is likely to be confronted with serious difficulty in movement of capital between Korea and abroad which will bring serious obstacles in carrying out its currency policies, exchange rate policies and other macroeconomic policies, the Ministry of Finance and Economy may take measures to require any person who performs transactions to deposit such capital to certain Korean governmental agencies or financial institutions.

 

Government Review of Issuance of ADSs

 

In order for us to issue shares represented by ADSs, we are required to file a prior report of the issuance with the Ministry of Finance and Economy if our securities and borrowings denominated in foreign currencies issued during the one-year period preceding such filing date exceed US$30 million in aggregate. No further Korean governmental approval is necessary for the initial offering and issuance of the ADSs.

 

Under current Korean laws and regulations, the depositary bank is required to obtain our prior consent for the number of shares to be deposited in any given proposed deposit which exceeds the difference between (1) the aggregate number of shares deposited by us or with the consent of us for the issuance of ADSs (including deposits in connection with the initial and all subsequent offerings of ADSs and stock dividends or other distributions related to these ADSs) and (2) the number of shares on deposit with the depositary bank at the time of such proposed deposit. We can give no assurance that we would grant our consent, if our consent is required. Therefore, a holder of ADRs who surrenders ADRs and withdraws shares may not be permitted subsequently to deposit those shares and obtain ADRs.

 

Reporting Requirements for Holders of Substantial Interests

 

Any person whose direct or beneficial ownership of shares, whether in the form of shares or ADSs, certificates representing the rights to subscribe for Shares and equity-related debt securities including convertible bonds and bonds with warrants (collectively, the “Equity Securities”) together with the Equity Securities beneficially owned by certain related persons or by any person acting in concert with the person accounts for 5.0% or more of the total issued Equity Securities is required to report the status of the holdings to the Financial Supervisory Commission and the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange within five business days after reaching the 5.0% ownership interest. In addition, any change in the ownership interest subsequent to the report

 

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which equals or exceeds 1.0% of the total issued Equity Securities is required to be reported to the Financial Supervisory Commission and the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange within five business days from the date of the change. The required information to be included in the 5.0% report and the deadline for filing the report may be different if the acquisition of such shareholding interest is for the purpose of exercising influence over the management, as opposed to an acquisition for investment purposes.

 

Violation of these reporting requirements may subject a person to criminal sanctions such as fines or imprisonment and may result in a loss of voting rights with respect to the unreported ownership of Equity Securities exceeding 5.0%. Furthermore, the Financial Supervisory Commission may issue an order to dispose of non-reported Equity Securities.

 

Restrictions Applicable to ADSs

 

No Korean governmental approval is necessary for the sale and purchase of ADSs in the secondary market outside Korea or for the withdrawal of shares underlying ADSs and the delivery inside Korea of shares in connection with the withdrawal, provided that a foreigner who intends to acquire the shares must obtain an investment registration card from the Financial Supervisory Service as described below. In general, the acquisition of the shares by a foreigner must be reported by the foreigner or his standing proxy in Korea immediately to the Governor of the Financial Supervisory Service; provided, however, that in cases where a foreigner acquires shares through the exercise of rights as a holder of ADSs (or other depositary certificates), the foreigner must cause such report to the Governor of the Financial Supervisory Service to be filed by the Korea Securities Depository.

 

Persons who have acquired shares as a result of the withdrawal of shares underlying the ADSs may exercise their preemptive rights for new shares, participate in free distributions and receive dividends on shares without any further governmental approval.

 

Restrictions Applicable to Shares

 

As a result of amendments to the Foreign Exchange Transaction Laws and Financial Supervisory Commission regulations adopted in connection with the stock market opening from January 1992, which we refer to collectively as the Investment Rules, foreigners may invest, with limited exceptions and subject to procedural requirements, in all shares of Korean companies, whether listed on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange or registered on the KOSDAQ Market Division of the Korea Exchange, unless prohibited by specific laws. Foreign investors may trade shares listed on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange or registered on the KOSDAQ Market Division of the Korea Exchange only through the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange or the KOSDAQ Market Division of the Korea Exchange, except in limited circumstances, including:

 

   

odd-lot trading of shares;

 

   

acquisition of shares (“Converted Shares”) by exercise of warrant, conversion right under convertible bonds or withdrawal right under depositary receipts issued outside of Korea by a Korean company;

 

   

acquisition of shares as a result of inheritance, donation, bequest or exercise of shareholders’ rights, including preemptive rights or rights to participate in free distributions and receive dividends; and

 

   

over-the-counter transactions between foreigners of a class of shares for which the ceiling on aggregate acquisition by foreigners, as explained below, has been reached or exceeded.

 

For over-the-counter transactions of shares between foreigners outside the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange or the KOSDAQ Market Division of the Korea Exchange for shares with respect to which the limit on aggregate foreign ownership has been reached or exceeded, a securities company licensed in Korea must act as an intermediary. Odd-lot trading of shares outside the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange or the KOSDAQ Market Division of the Korea Exchange must involve a licensed securities company in Korea as the

 

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other party. Foreign investors are prohibited from engaging in margin transactions through borrowing shares from a securities company with respect to shares which are subject to a foreign ownership limit.

 

The Investment Rules require a foreign investor who wishes to invest in shares on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange or the KOSDAQ Market Division of the Korea Exchange (including Converted Shares) to register its identity with the Financial Supervisory Service prior to making any such investment; however, the registration requirement does not apply to foreign investors who acquire Converted Shares with the intention of selling such Converted Shares within three months from the date of acquisition of the Converted Shares. Upon registration, the Financial Supervisory Service will issue to the foreign investor an investment registration card that must be presented each time the foreign investor opens a brokerage account with a securities company. Foreigners eligible to obtain an investment registration card include foreign nationals who are individuals residing abroad for more than six months, foreign governments, foreign municipal authorities, foreign public institutions, international financial institutions or similar international organizations, corporations incorporated under foreign laws and any person in any additional category designated by decree of the Ministry of Finance and Economy. All Korean offices of a foreign corporation as a group are treated as a separate entity from the offices of the corporation outside Korea. However, a foreign corporation or depositary bank issuing depositary receipts may obtain one or more investment registration cards in its name in certain circumstances as described in the relevant regulations.

 

Upon a foreign investor’s purchase of shares through the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange or the KOSDAQ Market Division of the Korea Exchange, no separate report by the investor is required because the investment registration card system is designed to control and oversee foreign investment through a computer system. However, a foreign investor’s acquisition or sale of shares outside the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange or the KOSDAQ Market Division of the Korea Exchange (as discussed above) must be reported by the foreign investor or his standing proxy to the Governor of the Financial Supervisory Service at the time of each such acquisition or sale; provided, however, that in cases where a foreigner acquires shares through the exercise of rights as a holder of ADSs (or other depositary certificates), the foreigner must cause such report to the Governor of the Financial Supervisory Service to be filed by the Korea Securities Depository; and further provided that a foreign investor must ensure that any acquisition or sale by it of shares outside the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange or the KOSDAQ Market Division of the Korea Exchange in the case of trades in connection with a tender offer, odd-lot trading of shares or trades of a class of shares for which the aggregate foreign ownership limit has been reached or exceeded, is reported to the Governor of the Financial Supervisory Service by the securities company engaged to facilitate such transaction. A foreign investor must appoint one or more standing proxies from among the Korea Securities Depository, foreign exchange banks, including domestic branches of foreign banks, securities companies, including domestic branches of foreign securities companies, asset management companies, futures trading companies and internationally recognized custodians that will act as a standing proxy to exercise shareholders’ rights or perform any matters related to the foregoing activities if the foreign investor does not perform these activities himself. However, a foreign investor may be exempted from complying with these standing proxy rules with the approval of the Governor of the Financial Supervisory Service in cases deemed inevitable by reason of conflict between laws of Korea and the home country of the foreign investor.

 

Certificates evidencing shares of Korean companies must be kept in custody with an eligible custodian in Korea. Only foreign exchange banks, including domestic branches of foreign banks, securities companies, including domestic branches of foreign securities companies, the Korea Securities Depository, asset management companies, futures trading companies and internationally recognized custodians are eligible to act as a custodian of shares for a non-resident or foreign investor. A foreign investor must ensure that his custodian deposits its shares with the Korea Securities Depository. However, a foreign investor may be exempted from complying with this deposit requirement with the approval of the Governor of the Financial Supervisory Service in circumstances where compliance with that requirement is made impracticable, including cases where compliance would contravene the laws of the home country of such foreign investor.

 

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Under the Investment Rules, with certain exceptions, foreign investors may acquire shares of a Korean company without being subject to any foreign investment ceiling. As one such exception, designated public corporations are subject to a 40.0% ceiling on the acquisition of shares by foreigners in the aggregate and a ceiling on the acquisition of shares by a single foreign investor pursuant to the articles of incorporation of such corporation. Currently, Korea Electric Power Corporation is the only designated public corporation which has set such a ceiling. Furthermore, an investment by a foreign investor of not less than 10.0% of the issued shares with voting rights of a Korean company is defined as a direct foreign investment under the Foreign Investment Promotion Act, which is, in general, subject to the report to, and acceptance, by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy. The acquisition of shares of a Korean company by a foreign investor may also be subject to certain foreign shareholding restrictions in the event that the restrictions are prescribed in each specific law which regulates the business of the Korean company. A foreigner who has acquired shares of our common stock in excess of this ceiling may not exercise his voting rights with respect to the shares of our common stock exceeding the limit.

 

Under the Foreign Exchange Transaction Laws, a foreign investor who intends to acquire shares must designate a foreign exchange bank at which he must open a foreign currency account and a Won account exclusively for stock investments. No approval is required for remittance into Korea and deposit of foreign currency funds in the foreign currency account. Foreign currency funds may be transferred from the foreign currency account at the time required to place a deposit for, or settle the purchase price of, a stock purchase transaction to a Won account opened at a securities company. Funds in the foreign currency account may be remitted abroad without any governmental approval.

 

Dividends on Shares are paid in Won. No governmental approval is required for foreign investors to receive dividends on, or the Won proceeds of the sale of, any shares to be paid, received and retained in Korea. Dividends paid on, and the Won proceeds of the sale of, any shares held by a non-resident of Korea must be deposited either in a Won account with the investor’s securities company or his Won Account. Funds in the investor’s Won Account may be transferred to his foreign currency account or withdrawn for local living expenses up to certain limitations. Funds in the Won Account may also be used for future investment in shares or for payment of the subscription price of new shares obtained through the exercise of preemptive rights.

 

The securities companies and asset management companies are allowed to open foreign currency accounts with foreign exchange banks exclusively for accommodating foreign investors’ stock investments in Korea. Through these accounts, these securities companies and asset management companies may enter into foreign exchange transactions on a limited basis, such as conversion of foreign currency funds and Won funds, either as a counterparty to or on behalf of foreign investors, without the investors having to open their own accounts with foreign exchange banks.

 

Item 10.E. Taxation

 

The following summary is based upon tax laws of the United States and the Republic of Korea as in effect on the date of this annual report on Form 20-F, and is subject to any change in United States or Korean law that may come into effect after such date. Investors in the shares of common stock or ADSs are advised to consult their own tax advisers as to the United States, Korean or other tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of such securities, including the effect of any national, state or local tax laws.

 

Korean Taxation

 

The following summary of Korean tax considerations applies to you as long as you are not:

 

   

a resident of Korea;

 

   

a corporation organized under Korean law; or

 

   

engaged in a trade or business in Korea through a permanent establishment or a fixed base.

 

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Shares or ADSs

 

Dividends on Shares of Common Stock or ADSs

 

Unless an applicable tax treaty provides otherwise, we will deduct Korean withholding tax from dividends paid to you either in cash or shares at a rate of 27.5%. If you are a resident of a country that has entered into a tax treaty with Korea, you may qualify for a reduced rate of Korean withholding tax under such a treaty. For example, if you are a qualified resident of the United States for purposes of the US-Korea Tax Treaty (the “Treaty”) and you are the beneficial owner of a dividend, a reduced withholding tax rate of 16.5% generally will apply. You will not be entitled to claim treaty benefits if you are not the beneficial owner of a dividend.

 

In order to obtain the benefits of a reduced withholding tax rate under a tax treaty, you must submit to us, prior to the dividend payment date, such evidence of tax residence as may be required by the Korean tax authorities. In the case of ADSs, evidence of tax residence may be submitted to us through the depositary. Excess taxes withheld may be recoverable if you subsequently produce satisfactory evidence that you were entitled to have tax withheld at a lower rate.

 

If we distribute to you free shares representing a transfer of certain capital reserves or asset revaluation reserves into paid-in capital, that distribution may be a deemed dividend subject to Korean tax.

 

Capital Gains

 

Capital gain from a sale of shares of common stock will generally be exempt from Korean taxation if you have owned, together with certain related parties, less than 25.0% of our total issued shares during the year of sale and the five calendar years before the year of sale, and the sale is made through the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange. Capital gain earned by a non-Korean holder from a sale of ADSs outside of Korea are exempt from Korean taxation by virtue of the Special Tax Treatment Control Law of Korea (the “STTCL”), provided that the issuance of the ADSs is deemed to be an overseas issuance under the STTCL.

 

If you are subject to tax on capital gain from a sale of ADSs, or shares of common stock that you acquired as a result of a withdrawal, your gain will be calculated based on your cost of acquiring the ADSs representing the shares of common stock, although there are no specific Korean tax provisions or rulings on this issue. In the absence of the application of a tax treaty that exempts tax on capital gain, the amount of Korean tax imposed on such capital gains will be the lesser of 11.0% of the gross realization proceeds or, subject to the production of satisfactory evidence of the acquisition cost and the transaction costs of the ADSs, 27.5% of the net capital gain.

 

If you sell your shares of common stock or ADSs, the purchaser or, in the case of a sale of shares of common stock on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange or through a licensed securities company in Korea, the licensed securities company, is required to withhold Korean tax from the sales price in an amount equal to 11% of the gross realization proceeds and to make payment thereof to the Korean tax authorities, unless you establish your entitlement to an exemption of taxation under an applicable tax treaty or produce satisfactory evidence of your acquisition cost and the transaction costs for the shares of common stock or ADSs. In order to obtain the benefit of an exemption of tax pursuant to a tax treaty, you must submit to the purchaser or the securities company (or through the depositary), as the case may be, prior to the first payment, an exemption application, together with a certificate of your tax residence issued by a competent authority of your residence country. This requirement will not apply to exemptions under Korean tax law. Excess taxes withheld may be recoverable if you subsequently produce satisfactory evidence that you were entitled to have taxes withheld at a lower rate.

 

Inheritance Tax and Gift Tax

 

Korean inheritance tax is imposed upon (a) all assets (wherever located) of the deceased if at the time of his death he was domiciled in Korea and (b) all property located in Korea which passes on death (irrespective of the

 

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domicile of the deceased). Gift tax is imposed in similar circumstances to the above. Taxes are currently imposed at the rate of 10% to 50% if the value of the relevant property is above a certain limit and vary according to the identity of the parties involved.

 

Under Korean Inheritance and Gift Tax Law, shares issued by a Korean corporation are deemed located in Korea irrespective of where they are physically located or by whom they are owned. It remains unclear whether, for Korean inheritance and gift tax purposes, a non-resident holder of ADSs will be treated as the owner of the shares underlying the ADSs. If such non-resident is treated as the owner of the shares, the heir or donee of such non-resident (or in certain circumstances, the non-resident as the donor) will be subject to Korean inheritance or gift tax at the same rate as described above.

 

Securities Transaction Tax

 

If you transfer shares of common stock on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange, you will be subject to securities transaction tax at a rate of 0.15% and an agriculture and fishery special tax at a rate of 0.15%, calculated based on the sales price of the shares. If you transfer shares of common stock and your transfer is not made on the Stock Market Division of the Korea Exchange you will generally be subject to the securities transaction tax at a rate of 0.5% and will generally not be subject to the agriculture and fishery special tax. Transfers of ADSs will not be subject to either the securities transaction tax or the agriculture and fishery special tax.

 

Although a tax ruling has been issued to the effect that a foreign holder of depositary shares will not be subject to securities transaction tax upon (i) deposit of underlying stock and receipt of depositary shares or upon (ii) the surrender of depositary shares and withdrawal of originally deposited underlying stock, an issue still remains as to whether, in the case where the depositary shares were transferred by one holder to another (which transfer is not subject to securities transaction tax it itself), the surrender of depositary shares and withdrawal of underlying stock by the subsequent (as opposed to the initial) holder of depositary shares will be treated as a taxable event for the purpose of the securities transaction tax. The Korean tax authorities issued another ruling indicating that securities transaction tax would be imposed “when depository shares which were issued upon deposit with an overseas depository of stock issued by a Korean company are later converted into the underlying stock,” except in the circumstances mentioned in the previously discussed ruling issued by the Korean tax authorities. This ruling, however, is silent on certain essential points such as the party responsible for the payment of the tax as well as the amount of tax due in such event. As a result, it remains uncertain under Korean tax law whether the surrender of depositary shares and withdrawal of underlying stock by the holders of depositary other than an initial holder will not trigger the securities transaction tax.

 

United States Federal Income Taxation

 

This summary describes the material U.S. federal income tax consequences to you, if you are a U.S. holder (as defined below), of owning our shares of common stock or ADSs. This summary applies to you only if you hold shares of common stock or ADSs as capital assets for tax purposes. This summary does not apply to you if you are a member of a class of holders subject to special rules, such as:

 

   

a dealer in securities or currencies;

 

   

a trader in securities that elects to use a mark-to-market method of accounting for your securities holdings;

 

   

a bank;

 

   

a life insurance company;

 

   

a tax-exempt organization;

 

   

a person that holds shares of common stock or ADSs that are a hedge or that are hedged against interest rate or currency risks;

 

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a person that holds shares of common stock or ADSs as part of a straddle or conversion transaction for tax purposes;

 

   

a person whose functional currency for tax purposes is not the U.S. dollar; or

 

   

a person that owns or is deemed to own 10% or more of any class of our stock.

 

This summary is based on laws, treaties and regulatory interpretations in effect on the date hereof, all of which are subject to change, possibly on a retroactive basis.

 

Please consult your own tax advisers concerning the U.S. federal, state, local and other national tax consequences of purchasing, owning and disposing of shares of common stock or ADSs in your particular circumstances.

 

For purposes of this summary, you are a “U.S. holder” if you are a beneficial owner of warrants, share of common stock or ADS that is:

 

   

a citizen or resident of the United States;

 

   

a U.S. domestic corporation; or

 

   

subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net income basis with respect to income from the warrants, share of common stock or ADS.

 

The Shares of Common Stock and ADSs

 

In general, if you hold ADSs, you will be treated as the holder of the shares of common stock represented by those ADSs for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and no gain or loss will be recognized if you exchange an ADS for the shares of common stock represented by that ADS.

 

Dividends

 

The gross amount of cash dividends that you receive (prior to deduction of Korean taxes) generally will be subject to U.S. federal income taxation as foreign source dividend income. Dividends paid in Won will be included in your income in a U.S. dollar amount calculated by reference to the exchange rate in effect on the date of your (or, in the case of ADSs, the depositary’s) receipt of the dividend, regardless of whether the payment is in fact converted into U.S. dollars. If such a dividend is converted into U.S. dollars on the date of receipt, you generally should not be required to recognize foreign currency gain or loss in respect of the dividend income.

 

Subject to certain exceptions for short-term and hedged positions, the U.S. dollar amount of dividends received by an individual prior to January 1, 2011 with respect to the ADSs and common stock will be subject to taxation at a maximum rate of 15% if the dividends are “qualified dividends.” Dividends paid on the ADSs and common stock will be treated as qualified dividends if (i) we are eligible for the benefits of a comprehensive income tax treaty with the United States that the Internal Revenue Service has approved for the purposes of the qualified dividend rules and (ii) we were not, in the year prior to the year in which the dividend was paid, and are not, in the year in which the dividend is paid, a passive foreign investment company (“PFIC”). The income tax treaty between Korea and the United States has been approved for the purposes of the qualified dividend rules. Based on our audited financial statements and relevant market and shareholder data, we believe that we were not treated as a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes with respect to our 2005 or 2006 taxable year. In addition, based on our audited financial statements and our current expectations regarding the value and nature of our assets, the sources and nature of our income, and relevant market and shareholder data, we do not anticipate becoming a PFIC for our 2007 taxable year. The U.S. Treasury has announced its intention to promulgate rules pursuant to which holders of ADSs or common stock and intermediaries though whom such securities are held will be permitted to rely on certifications from issuers to establish that dividends are treated as qualified

 

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dividends. Because such procedures have not yet been issued, it is not clear whether we will be able to comply with them. You should consult your own tax advisers regarding the availability of the reduced dividend tax rate in the light of your own particular circumstances.

 

Distributions of additional shares in respect of shares of common stock or ADSs that are made as part of a pro-rata distribution to all of our shareholders generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax.

 

Sales and Other Dispositions

 

For U.S. federal income tax purposes, gain or loss you realize on the sale or other disposition of shares of common stock or ADSs will be capital gain or loss, and will be long-term capital gain or loss if the shares of common stock or ADSs were held for more than one year. Your ability to offset capital losses against ordinary income is limited. Long-term capital gain recognized by an individual U.S. holder generally is subject to taxation at reduced rates.

 

Foreign Tax Credit Considerations

 

You should consult your own tax advisers to determine whether you are subject to any special rules that limit your ability to make effective use of foreign tax credits, including the possible adverse impact of failing to take advantage of benefits under the income tax treaty between the United States and Korea. If no such rules apply, you may claim a credit against your U.S. federal income tax liability for Korean taxes withheld from dividends on shares of common stock or ADSs, so long as you have owned the shares of common stock or ADSs (and not entered into specified kinds of hedging transactions) for at least a 16-day period that includes the ex-dividend date. Instead of claiming a credit, you may, at your election, deduct such Korean taxes in computing your taxable income, subject to generally applicable limitations under U.S. tax law. Korean taxes withheld from a distribution of additional shares that is not subject to U.S. tax will be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as imposed on “general limitation” income. Such treatment may affect your ability to utilize any available foreign tax credit in respect of such taxes.

 

Any Korean securities transaction tax or agriculture and fishery special tax that you pay will not be creditable for foreign tax credit purposes.

 

The calculation of foreign tax credits and, in the case of a U.S. holder that elects to deduct foreign taxes, the availability of deductions involve the application of complex rules that depend on a U.S. holder’s particular circumstances. You should consult your own tax advisers regarding the creditability or deductibility of such taxes.

 

U.S. Information Reporting and Backup Withholding Rules

 

Payments in respect of the shares of common stock or ADSs that are made within the United States or through certain U.S.-related financial intermediaries are subject to information reporting and may be subject to backup withholding unless the holder (1) is a corporation or other exempt recipient or (2) provides a taxpayer identification number and certifies that no loss of exemption from backup withholding has occurred. Holders that are not U.S. persons generally are not subject to information reporting or backup withholding. However, such a holder may be required to provide a certification of its non-U.S. status in connection with payments received within the United States or through a U.S.-related financial intermediary.

 

Item 10.F. Dividends and Paying Agents

 

See “Item 8. Financial Information—Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Dividends” for information concerning our dividend policies and our payment of dividends. See “Item 10. Additional Information—Item 10.B. Memorandum and Articles of Association—Dividends” for a discussion of

 

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the process by which dividends are paid on our common shares. See “Item 12. Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities—Description of American Depositary Shares—Dividends and Distributions” for a discussion of the process by which dividends are paid on our ADSs. The paying agent for payment of our dividends on ADSs in the United States is Citibank, N.A.

 

Item 10.G. Statements by Experts

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 10.H. Documents on Display

 

We are subject to the information requirements of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and, in accordance therewith, are required to file reports, including annual reports on Form 20-F, and other information with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. These materials, including this annual report and the exhibits thereto, may be inspected and copied at the Commission’s public reference rooms in Washington, D.C., New York, New York and Chicago, Illinois. Please call the Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public reference rooms. We are required to make filings with the Commission by electronic means, which will be available to the public over the Internet at the Commission’s web site at http://www.sec.gov.

 

Item 10.I. Subsidiary Information

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We are exposed to foreign exchange rate and interest rate risks primarily associated with underlying liabilities, and to equity price risk as a result of our investment in equity-linked securities. Following evaluation of these positions, we (including KTF) selectively enter into derivative financial instruments to manage the related risk exposures. These contracts are entered into with major financial institutions, thereby minimizing the risk of credit loss. The activities of our finance division are subject to policies approved by our foreign exchange and interest rate risk management committee. These policies address the use of derivative financial instruments, including the approval of counterparties, setting of limits and investment of excess liquidity. Our general policy is to hold or issue derivative financial instruments only for hedging purposes.

 

Exchange Rate Risk

 

Substantially all of our cash flow is denominated in Won. We are exposed to foreign exchange risk related to foreign currency denominated liabilities and anticipated foreign exchange payments. Anticipated foreign exchange payments, mostly in Dollars, relate primarily to payments of foreign currency denominated debt, net settlements paid to foreign telecommunication carriers and payments for equipment purchased from foreign suppliers.

 

We entered into currency interest rate swap contracts with Merrill Lynch and other financial institutions for principal and interest denominated in Won in place of principal and interest of long-term debt denominated in dollars. In 2005, under the currency interest rate swap contracts, we recognized a net valuation gain of Won 16 billion, as well as a transaction loss of Won 11 billion resulting from the contract settlement. In 2006, we recognized a valuation loss of Won 80 billion, as well as a net transaction loss of Won 6 billion resulting from the contract settlement. For details of the assets and liabilities recorded relating to currency interest rate swap contracts outstanding as of December 31, 2006, see Note 23(c) to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

We are also subject to market risk exposure arising from changing interest rates. A reduction of interest rates increases the fair value of our debt portfolio, which is primarily of a fixed interest nature. We use, to a

 

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limited extent, interest rate swap contracts, interest rate swaption contracts and interest currency swap contracts to reduce interest rate volatility on some of our debt and manage our interest expense by achieving a balanced mixture of floating and fixed rate debt. We entered into interest rate swap and interest rate swaption contracts with various financial institutions in 2005 and 2006, the details of which are as follows:

 

Transaction Type


  

Financial Institution


  

Description


Interest rate swaps

   J.P. Morgan and others    Exchange fixed rates of interest for variable rates of interest for a specified period

Interest rate swaption

   Citibank    An option by the counterparty to receive fixed interest amounts and pay variable interest amounts after a specified period

 

Under our interest rate swap contracts, we recognized a net valuation loss of Won 1 billion in 2005. In 2006, we recognized a net valuation gain of Won 7 billion, as well as a net transaction loss of Won 1 billion. Under our interest rate swaption contract, we recognized a transaction loss of Won 353 million in 2005 and settled all interest rate swap contracts. There was no outstanding interest swap contract as of December 31, 2006. For details of the assets and liabilities recorded relating to interest rate swap contracts outstanding as of December 31, 2006, see Note 23(c) to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

We also entered into additional derivatives contracts of currency swap, currency forwards, currency options and currency futures with various financial institutions in 2005 and 2006, the details of which are as follows:

 

Transaction Type


  

Financial Institution


  

Description


Currency swaps

  

J.P. Morgan and others

   Exchange foreign currency cash flow for domestic currency cash flow for a specified period

Currency forwards

  

Shinhan Bank and others

   Exchange a specified currency at the agreed exchange rate at a specified date

Currency option

  

Shinhan Bank

   Right to sell or buy a specified currency at the agreed exchange rate during a specified period of time

Currency futures

  

Tong Yang Futures

   Standardized agreement to exchange a specified currency at the agreed exchange rate at a stipulated future date

 

In 2005, we recognized aggregate transaction loss of Won 15 billion and a net valuation gain of Won 2 billion related to these derivatives. In 2006, we recognized aggregate transaction loss of Won 10 billion and aggregate valuation loss of Won 5 billion related to these derivatives. Details of gains and losses on these derivatives contracts of currency swap, currency forwards, currency options and currency futures are as follows:

 

Transaction Type


  

Gains and Losses


Currency swaps

   We recognized a valuation gain of Won 4 billion and a transaction gain of Won 186 million in 2005. In 2006, we recognized a valuation loss of Won 5 billion and a net transaction loss of Won 8 billion.

Currency forwards

   We recognized a net transaction loss of Won 6 billion in 2005. We did not recognize any gains or losses in 2006.

Currency option

   We recognized a valuation loss of Won 2 billion and a transaction loss of Won 9 billion in 2005. In 2006, we recognized a transaction loss of Won 1 billion.

Currency futures

   We recognized a transaction loss of Won 88 million in 2005. In 2006, we recognized a valuation loss of Won 13 million and a transaction gain of Won 128 million.

 

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For details of the assets and liabilities recorded relating to currency swap and currency option contracts outstanding as of December 31, 2006, see Note 23(c) to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

The following table summarizes the carrying amounts, fair values, principal cash flows by maturity date and weighted average interest rates of our short-term and long-term liabilities as of December 31, 2006 which are sensitive to exchange rates and/or interest rates. The information is presented in Won, which is our reporting currency.

 

     Maturities

                                         December 31, 2006

     2007

    2008

    2009

    2010

    2011

    Thereafter

    Total

    Fair Value

     (In Won millions except rates)

Local currency:

                                              

Fixed rate

   1,257,886     868,701     1,011,020     861,843     850,000     1,243,767     6,093,217     6,009,628

Average weighted rate(1)

   4.66 %   4.52 %   4.53 %   3.68 %   3.93 %   5.16 %   5.02 %   —  

Variable rate

   57,001     73,742     6,285     867     433     —       138,328     136,728

Average weighted rate(1)

   3.01 %   3.06 %   4.69 %   2.31 %   —       —       5.16 %   —  
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sub-total

   1,314,887     942,443     1,017,305     862,710     850,433     1,243,767     6,231,545     6,146,356
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Foreign currency:

                                              

Fixed rate

   221,637     —       —       —       —       1,208,480     1,430,117     1,429,581

Average weighted rate(1)

   5.63 %   —       —       —       —       5.62 %   5.12 %   —  

Variable rate

   1,859     930     930     930     —       —       4,649     4,613

Average weighted rate(1)

   8.85 %   8.87 %   7.42 %   —       —       —       8.26 %   —  
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Subtotal

   223,496     930     930     930     —       1,208,480     1,434,766     1,434,194
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

   1,538,383     943,373     1,018,235     863,640     850,433     2,452,247     7,666,311     7,580,550
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1) Weighted average rates of the portfolio at the period end.

 

Item 12. Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities

 

Not applicable

 

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PART II

 

Item 13. Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 14. Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 15. Controls and Procedures

 

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

Our management has evaluated, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act, as of December 31, 2006. There are inherent limitations to the effectiveness of any system of disclosure controls and procedures, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or overriding of the controls and procedures. Accordingly, even effective disclosure controls and procedures can only provide reasonable assurance of achieving their control objectives. Based upon our evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of such date. Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Commission’s rules and forms, and that it is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting is not intended to provide absolute assurance that a misstatement of our financial statements would be prevented or detected. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Based on our evaluation, our management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2006. Our management’s assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006 has been audited by KPMG Samjong Accounting Corp., an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in its report which is included herein.

 

Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

The attestation report of our independent registered public accounting firm on management’s assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting is included in Item 18 of this Form 20-F.

 

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting during 2006 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

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Item 16. [Reserved]

 

Item 16A. Audit Committee Financial Expert

 

At our annual shareholders’ meeting in March 2007, our shareholders elected the following four members of the Audit Committee: Do-Hwan Kim, Jeong-Ro Yoon, Kon-Sik Kim and Jong-Kyoo Yoon. In addition, they determined and designated that Jong-Kyoo Yoon is an “audit committee financial expert” within the meaning of this Item 16A. The board of directors have approved this newly elected Audit Committee, and reaffirmed the determination by our shareholders that Jong-Kyoo Yoon is an audit committee financial expert and further determined that he is independent within the meaning of applicable SEC rules and the listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange.

 

Item 16B. Code of Ethics

 

We have adopted a code of ethics, as defined in Item 16.B. of Form 20-F under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Our code of ethics applies to our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and persons performing similar functions, as well as to our directors, other officers and employees. Our code of ethics is available on our web site at www.kt.co.kr. If we amend the provisions of our code of ethics that apply to our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and persons performing similar functions, or if we grant any waiver of such provisions, we will disclose such amendment or waiver on our web site.

 

Item 16C. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

 

Audit and Non-Audit Fees

 

The following table sets forth the fees billed to us by our independent auditors, KPMG Samjong Accounting Corp., during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005 and 2006:

 

    

Year Ended

December 31,


     2005

   2006

     (In millions)

Audit fees

   (Won) 2,331    (Won) 2,395

Audit-related fees

     —        —  

Tax fees

     —        —  

Other fees

     —        —  
    

  

Total fees

   (Won) 2,331    (Won) 2,395
    

  

 

Audit fees in the above table are the aggregate fees billed by KPMG Samjong Accounting Corp. in connection with the audit of our annual financial statements and the review of our interim financial statements.

 

Audit Committee Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures

 

Our audit committee has not established pre-approval policies and procedures for the engagement of our independent auditors for services. Our audit committee expressly approves on a case-by-case basis any engagement of our independent auditors for audit and non-audit services provided to our consolidated subsidiaries or us.

 

Item 16D. Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees

 

Not applicable.

 

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Item 16E. Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

 

The following table sets forth the repurchases of common shares by us or any affiliated purchasers during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006:

 

Period


  

Total
Number of

Shares
Purchased


  

Average Price

Paid per Share

(In Won)


  

Total Number of
Shares

Purchased as Part of
Publicly Announced
Plans


  

Maximum Number
of Shares

that May Yet Be
Purchased

Under the Plans


January 1 to January 31

   0    —      —      5,222,000

February 1 to February 29

   0    —      —      5,222,000

March 1 to March 31

   0    —      —      5,222,000

April 1 to April 30

   527,360    42,037    527,360    4,694,640

May 1 to May 31

   2,743,430    41,675    2,743,430    1,951,210

June 1 to June 30

   1,951,210    39,470    1,951,210    0

July 1 to July 31

   0    —      —      0

August 1 to August 31

   0    —      —      0

September 1 to September 30

   0    —      —      0

October 1 to October 31

   0    —      —      0

November 1 to November 30

   0    —      —      0

December 1 to December 31

   0    —      —      0
    
  
  
  

Total

   5,222,000    40,888    5,222,000    0
    
  
  
  

 

Neither we nor any “affiliated purchaser,” as defined in Rule 10b-18(a)(3) of the Exchange Act, purchased any of our equity securities during the period covered by this annual report.

 

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PART III

 

Item 17. Financial Statements

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 18. Financial Statements

 

AUDITED CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF KT CORPORATION

 

     Page

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

   F-1

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

   F-2

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2005 and 2006

   F-3

Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Retained Earnings for the Years Ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006

   F-5

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006

   F-6

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

   F-8

 

AUDITED CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF KT FREETEL CO., LTD.

 

     Page

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

   A-1

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

   A-2

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2005 and 2006

   A-3

Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006

   A-5

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006

   A-6

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006

   A-8

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

   A-12

 

UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF KT FREETEL CO., LTD.

 

     Page

Independent Accountants’ Review Report

   U-1

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of August 20, 2006

   U-2

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income for the Period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006

   U-4

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the Period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006

   U-5

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

   U-8

 

Item 19. Exhibits

 

1      Articles of Incorporation of KT Corporation (English translation) Form of Common Stock Certificate of KT Corporation, par value Won 5,000 per share (including translation in English)
2.1 *    Deposit Agreement dated as of May 25, 1999 entered into among KT Corporation, Citibank, N.A., as depositary, and all Holders and Beneficial Owners of American Depositary Shares evidenced by the American Depositary Receipts issued thereunder, including the form of American depositary receipt (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit(a)(i) of the Registrant’s Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-13578) on Form F-6)

 

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2.2 *    Form of Amendment No. 1 Deposit Agreement dated as of May 25, 1999 entered into among KT Corporation, Citibank, N.A., as depositary, and all Holders and Beneficial Owners of American Depositary Shares evidenced by the American Depositary Receipts issued thereunder, including the form of American depositary receipt (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit(a)(ii) of the Registrant’s Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-13578) on Form F-6)
2.3 *    Letter from Citibank, N.A., as depositary, to the Registrant relating to the pre-release of the American depositary receipts (incorporated herein by reference to the Registrant’s Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-10330) on Form F-6)
7.1      Computation of ratio of earnings to fixed charges
8.1      List of subsidiaries of KT Corporation
12.1      Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
12.2      Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
13.1      Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
15.1      The Telecommunications Basic Law (English translation)
15.2      Enforcement Decree of the Telecommunications Basic Law (English translation)
15.3      The Telecommunications Business Act (English translation)
15.4      Enforcement Decree of the Telecommunications Business Act (English translation)

* Filed previously.

 

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Table of Contents

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

KT Corporation:

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of KT Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2005 and 2006, and the related consolidated statements of earnings and retained earnings and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2006, expressed in Korean Won. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We did not audit the financial statements of KT Freetel Co., Ltd. (“KTF”), a 48.7%, 44.6% and 52.2% owned subsidiary at December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively, as of and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2006. The financial statements of KTF, which are included in the consolidated financial statements of the Company, reflect total assets constituting 32.3% and 32.5% as of December 31, 2005 and 2006, respectively, and total revenues constituting 30.5%, 30.8% and 32.6% for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively, of the related consolidated totals. Those financial statements were audited by other auditors whose report has been furnished to us, and our report, insofar as it relates to the amounts included for KTF, is based solely on the report of the other auditors.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits and the report of the other auditors provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, based on our audits and the report of the other auditors, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2005 and 2006, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2006 in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the Republic of Korea.

 

As discussed in note 29 to the consolidated financial statements, effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted the Application of Korea Accounting Standard (“AKAS”) 06-2 “Deferred Tax Accounting for Investments in Subsidiaries, Affiliated Companies Accounted for Using the Equity Method, and Interest in Joint Ventures.” AKAS 06-2 requires evaluation of tax benefit, if any, based on the net deferred tax asset or liability of all temporary differences arising from the same affiliate rather than on an individual basis. With the adoption of AKAS 06-2, certain accounts of prior year’s consolidated financial statements have been restated as required by this standard.

 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2006 have been translated into United States dollars solely for the convenience of the reader. We have audited the translation and, in our opinion, the consolidated financial statements expressed in Korean Won have been translated into United States dollars on the basis set forth in note 3 to the consolidated financial statements.

 

Accounting principles generally accepted in the Republic of Korea vary in certain significant respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Information relating to the nature and effect of such differences is presented in note 35 to the consolidated financial statements.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated May 25, 2007 expressed an unqualified opinion on management’s assessment of, and the effective operation of, internal control over financial reporting.

 

/s/ KPMG Samjong Accounting Corp.

Seoul, Korea

May 25, 2007

 

F-1


Table of Contents

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

KT Corporation:

 

We have audited management’s assessment, included in the accompanying management’s annual report on internal control over financial reporting of KT Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on management’s assessment and an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We did not audit the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of KT Freetel Co., Ltd. (“KTF”), a 52.2% owned subsidiary as of December 31, 2006, whose financial statements reflect total assets and revenue constituting 32.5% and 32.6%, respectively, of the related consolidated financial statement amounts as of and for the year ended December 31, 2006. The effectiveness of KTF’s internal control over financial reporting was audited by other auditors whose report has been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to the effectiveness of KTF’s internal control over financial reporting, is based solely on the report of the other auditors.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, evaluating management’s assessment, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit and the report of the other auditors provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

In our opinion, based on our audit and the report of the other auditors, management’s assessment that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, is fairly stated, in all material respects, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Also, in our opinion, based on our audit and the report of the other auditors, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of KT Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2005 and 2006, and the related consolidated statements of earnings and retained earnings and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2006, expressed in Korean Won and our report dated May 25, 2007 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

 

/s/ KPMG Samjong Accounting Corp.

Seoul, Korea

May 25, 2007

 

F-2


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

December 31, 2005 and 2006

(In millions of Won and U.S. dollars)

 

     2005

    2006

   

2006

(note 3)


 

Assets

                      

Current assets:

                      

Cash and cash equivalents (note 4)

   (Won) 1,546,643     1,828,569     $ 1,966.2  

Short-term financial instruments (note 5)

     640,077     312,592       336.1  

Current portion of investment securities (note 8):

                      

Trading securities

     250,165     31,358       33.7  

Available-for-sale securities

     15,409     204,336       219.7  

Held-to-maturity securities

     98     32       —    

Notes and accounts receivable—trade, less allowance for doubtful accounts of (Won)613,873 in 2005 and (Won)563,164 in 2006 (note 2)

     2,455,882     2,575,853       2,769.7  

Accounts receivable—other less allowance for doubtful accounts of (Won)100,429 in 2005 and (Won)96,948 in 2006

     285,224     297,330       319.7  

Inventories (note 6)

     360,113     237,193       255.0  

Deferred income tax assets, net (note 26(d))

     303,687     264,117       284.0  

Other current assets (notes 7 and 23)

     273,472     229,010       246.2  
    


 

 


Total current assets

     6,130,770     5,980,390       6,430.3  
    


 

 


Investment securities:

                      

Available-for-sale securities (note 8)

     63,319     66,336       71.3  

Held-to-maturity securities (note 8)

     104,972     408       0.4  

Equity securities of affiliates (note 9)

     194,097     211,156       227.0  
    


 

 


Total investment securities

     362,388     277,900       298.7  
    


 

 


Property, plant and equipment (note 10):

                      

Land

     1,191,045     1,209,580       1,300.6  

Buildings and structures

     4,825,502     4,979,098       5,353.9  

Machinery and equipment

     36,964,868     38,412,225       41,303.5  

Vehicles

     75,624     72,238       77.7  

Tools, furniture and fixtures

     2,219,908     2,259,564       2,429.6  

Construction in progress

     410,492     462,346       497.1  
    


 

 


       45,687,439     47,395,051       50,962.4  

Less accumulated depreciation

     (30,600,407 )   (32,226,284 )     (34,651.9 )
    


 

 


Net property, plant and equipment

     15,087,032     15,168,767       16,310.5  
    


 

 


Other assets (notes 5, 11 and 26)

     3,098,175     2,794,979       3,005.7  
    


 

 


Total assets

   (Won) 24,678,365     24,222,036     $ 26,045.2  
    


 

 


 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

F-3


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets, Continued

 

December 31, 2005 and 2006

(In millions of Won and U.S. dollars, except share data)

 

     2005

    2006

   

2006

(note 3)


 

Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity

                      

Current liabilities:

                      

Notes and accounts payable—trade

   (Won) 866,523     772,633     $ 830.8  

Short-term borrowings (note 13)

     113,298     184,694       198.6  

Current portion of long-term debt (note 15)

     1,206,397     1,352,875       1,454.7  

Accounts payable—other

     1,441,453     1,708,041       1,836.6  

Advance receipts from customers

     117,573     117,153       126.0  

Accrued expenses

     457,615     421,893       453.6  

Withholdings

     158,504     174,550       187.7  

Income taxes payable

     203,625     388,351       417.6  

Fair value of derivative contracts (note 23(c))

     131,599     169,979       182.8  

Other current liabilities (note 14)

     124,780     131,919       141.8  
    


 

 


Total current liabilities

     4,821,367     5,422,088       5,830.2  

Long-term debt, excluding current portion (note 15)

     7,360,371     6,096,929       6,555.8  

Refundable deposits for telephone installation (note 16)

     958,304     907,107       975.4  

Accrual for retirement and severance benefits, net (note 17)

     380,756     390,618       420.0  

Long-term accounts payable—other (note 12)

     589,133     532,265       572.3  

Other long-term liabilities (note 18)

     178,500     175,725       189.0  
    


 

 


Total liabilities

     14,288,431     13,524,732       14,542.7  
    


 

 


Stockholders' equity (note 19):

                      

Authorized—1,000,000,000 shares

                      

Common stock of (Won)5,000 par value (note 19):

                      

Issued—284,849,400 shares in 2005 and 279,627,400 shares in 2006

     1,560,998     1,560,998       1,678.5  

Preferred stock (note 19)

     —       —         —    

Capital surplus (note 20)

     1,389,222     1,289,803       1,386.9  

Retained earnings:

                      

Appropriated (note 21)

     5,811,862     5,781,862       6,217.1  

Unappropriated

     2,974,551     3,618,206       3,890.5  
    


 

 


       8,786,413     9,400,068       10,107.6  
    


 

 


Capital adjustments:

                      

Treasury stock (note 22)

     (3,840,485 )   (3,826,572 )     (4,114.6 )

Loss on retirement of treasury stock (note 21)

     (38,431 )   —         —    

Foreign-based operations translation adjustment

     (6,355 )   (16,875 )     (18.1 )

Unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities (notes 8
and 26)

     9,298     8,168       8.8  

Unrealized gains on equity securities of affiliates

     223     2,935       3.2  

Stock options (note 30)

     10,838     11,527       12.4  
    


 

 


       (3,864,912 )   (3,820,817 )     (4,108.3 )
    


 

 


Minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries

     2,518,213     2,267,252       2,437.8  
    


 

 


Total stockholders' equity

     10,389,934     10,697,304       11,502.5  

Commitments and contingencies (note 23)

                      
    


 

 


Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

   (Won) 24,678,365     24,222,036     $ 26,045.2  
    


 

 


 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

F-4


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Retained Earnings

 

Years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006

(In millions of Won and U.S. dollars, except earnings per share)

 

    2004

    2005

    2006

   

2006

(note 3)


 

Operating revenues (note 24)

  (Won) 17,068,371     17,155,694     17,756,156     $ 19,092.6  

Operating expenses (note 25)

    14,587,839     14,725,083     15,376,920       16,534.3  
   


 

 

 


Operating income

    2,480,532     2,430,611     2,379,236       2,558.3  
   


 

 

 


Other income (expense):

                           

Interest income

    116,725     87,855     112,288       120.7  

Interest expense

    (678,514 )   (616,540 )   (503,244 )     (541.1 )

Equity in losses of affiliates, net (note 9)

    (79,350 )   (18,818 )   (6,705 )     (7.2 )

Foreign currency transaction and translation gains, net

    542,566     66,225     139,681       150.2  

Loss on disposition of property, plant and equipment, net

    (103,513 )   (145,259 )   (99,337 )     (106.8 )

Gain (loss) on disposition of available-for-sale securities, net (note 8)

    (15,115 )   70,326     78,444       84.3  

Reversal of impairment loss on held-to-maturity securities (note 8)

    —       —       12,493       13.4  

Impairment loss on available-for-sale securities (note 8)

    (5,831 )   (6,945 )   (4,185 )     (4.5 )

Impairment loss on held-to-maturity securities (note 8)

    (42,078 )   (21,849 )   —         —    

Contributions received for losses on universal telecommunications services (note 34)

    80,310     7,442     41,817       45.0  

Prior year’s additional income tax refund (payment), net (note 26)

    (943 )   (12,109 )   13,921       15.0  

Contribution payments for research and development and donations (note 33)

    (146,779 )   (140,156 )   (151,106 )     (162.5 )

Derivatives transaction and valuation losses, net (note 23(c))

    (146,937 )   (9,732 )   (94,644 )     (101.8 )

Reversal of customer call bonus points accrual (note 18)

    —       29,684     13,235       14.2  

Provision for doubtful accounts—other

    (85,090 )   (71,358 )   (19,148 )     (20.6 )

Other, net

    93,053     97,939     87,017       93.7  
   


 

 

 


Other expense, net

    (471,496 )   (683,295 )   (379,473 )     (408.0 )
   


 

 

 


Earnings before income taxes and minority interest

    2,009,036     1,747,316     1,999,763       2,150.3  

Income taxes (note 26)

    577,889     387,280     490,046       526.9  
   


 

 

 


Earnings before minority interest

    1,431,147     1,360,036     1,509,717       1,623.4  

Minority interest in earnings of consolidated subsidiaries

    (148,931 )   (274,586 )   (217,854 )     (234.3 )
   


 

 

 


Net earnings

  (Won) 1,282,216     1,085,450     1,291,863     $ 1,389.1  

Retained earnings at beginning of year

  (Won) 7,683,300     8,333,240     8,786,413       9,404.7  

Appropriation of retained earnings of loss on retirement of treasury stock

    —       —       (38,431 )     (41.3 )

Retirement of treasury stock (note 22)

    —       —       (213,664 )     (229.7 )

Dividends (notes 2 and 28)

    (632,276 )   (632,277 )   (426,113 )     (458.2 )
   


 

 

 


Retained earnings at end of year

  (Won) 8,333,240     8,786,413     9,400,068     $ 10,107.6  
   


 

 

 


Basic earnings per share of common stock in Won and U.S. dollars
(note 27)

  (Won) 6,084     5,131     6,155     $ 6.62  
   


 

 

 


Diluted earnings per share of common stock in Won and U.S. dollars
(note 27)

  (Won) 5,697     5,125     6,148     $ 6.61  
   


 

 

 


 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

F-5


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

 

Years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006

(In millions of Won and U.S. dollars)

 

     2004

    2005

    2006

    2006
(note 3)


 

Cash flows from operating activities:

                            

Net earnings

   (Won) 1,282,216     1,085,450     1,291,863     $ 1,389.1  

Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:

                            

Depreciation

     3,403,639     3,293,557     3,228,293       3,471.3  

Amortization

     393,849     345,461     389,710       419.0  

Provision for doubtful accounts

     287,073     120,048     111,285       119.7  

Provision for retirement and severance benefits

     281,453     302,049     240,843       259.0  

Employee benefits (note 22(c))

     —       96,833     —         —    

Equity in losses of affiliates, net

     79,350     18,818     6,705       7.2  

Loss on disposition of property, plant and equipment, net

     103,513     145,259     99,337       106.8  

Foreign currency transactions and translation gains, net

     (546,335 )   (54,820 )   (114,363 )     (123.0 )

Gain on disposition of available-for-sale securities, net

     15,115     (70,326 )   (78,444 )     (84.3 )

Impairment loss on available-for-sale securities

     5,831     6,945     4,185       4.5  

Impairment loss on held-to-maturity securities

     42,078     21,849     —         —    

Reversal of impairment loss on held-to-maturity securities

     —       —       (12,493 )     (13.4 )

Derivatives transaction and valuation losses, net

     146,937     9,732     94,644       101.8  

Deferred income tax expenses (benefits), net

     106,964     (17,026 )   33,839       36.4  

Reversal of customer call bonus points accrual

     —       (29,684 )   (13,235 )     (14.2 )

Minority interest in earnings of consolidated subsidiaries

     148,931     274,586     217,854       234.3  

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

                            

Notes and accounts receivable—trade

     (361,316 )   202,664     110,589       118.9  

Accounts receivable—other

     (93,936 )   18,482     (26,848 )     (28.9 )

Inventories

     (15,564 )   32,414     162,220       174.4  

Other asset (long-term accounts receivable—trade)

     (266,813 )   (9,275 )   (33,112 )     (35.6 )

Notes and accounts payable—trade

     (150,771 )   21,518     (132,168 )     (142.1 )

Accounts payable—other

     (107,901 )   310,346     153,661       165.2  

Advance receipts from customers

     22,850     (12,237 )   (420 )     (0.5 )

Accrued expenses

     35,647     167,784     (35,593 )     (38.3 )

Withholdings

     40,346     (29,075 )   16,046       17.3  

Income taxes payable

     (540 )   (60,549 )   225,238       242.2  

Payment of retirement and severance benefits

     (93,178 )   (109,931 )   (79,533 )     (85.5 )

Severance benefits insurance deposit

     (119,568 )   (126,497 )   (151,773 )     (163.2 )

Other, net

     79,497     31,528     55,869       59.8  
    


 

 

 


Net cash provided by operating activities

   (Won) 4,719,367     5,985,903     5,764,199     $ 6,197.9  
    


 

 

 


 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

F-6


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, Continued

 

Years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006

(In millions of Won and U.S. dollars)

 

    2004

    2005

    2006

   

2006

(note 3)


 

Cash flows from investing activities:

                           

Purchases of property, plant and equipment

    (Won)(2,971,376)     (2,870,799 )   (3,517,697 )   $ (3,782.5 )

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

    109,469     33,341     58,979       63.4  

Decrease in short-term financial instruments, net

    (923,223 )   354,266     327,485       352.1  

Purchases of trading securities

    (127,500 )   (375,050 )   (31,200 )     (33.5 )

Purchases of available-for-sale securities

    (499,370 )   (226,647 )   (150,150 )     (161.5 )

Purchases of held-to-maturity securities

    (3,182 )   (6,137 )   (281 )     (0.3 )

Purchases of investment securities in affiliated companies

    —       (7,383 )   (11,140 )     (12.0 )

Proceeds from sale of trading securities

    174,210     132,326     264,541       284.5  

Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities

    589,977     551,433     19,303       20.8  

Proceeds from maturity of held-to-maturity securities

    12,992     12,826     607       0.7  

Proceeds from sale of investment securities of affiliated companies

    —       2,175     5,754       6.2  

Dividend from affiliated companies

    2,057     1,493     1,247       1.3  

Decrease in current portion of long-term loans to employees

    138,043     138,073     136,325       146.6  

Increase in frequency usage right

    —       (125,800 )   —         —    

Increase in other intangible assets

    (162,665 )   (172,920 )   (209,433 )     (225.2 )

Other, net

    42,757     35,839     43,792       47.1  
   


 

 

 


Net cash used in investing activities

    (3,617,811 )   (2,522,964 )   (3,061,868 )     (3,292.3 )
   


 

 

 


Cash flows from financing activities:

                           

Payment of dividends (note 28)

    (633,171 )   (632,277 )   (426,113 )     (458.2 )

Payment of dividends by consolidated subsidiaries

    (50,037 )   (50,761 )   (67,814 )     (72.9 )

Increase (decrease) of short-term borrowings, net

    (193,097 )   (324,577 )   70,496       75.8  

Repayment of long-term debt

    (2,178,028 )   (4,903,137 )   (1,283,987 )     (1,380.5 )

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt

    3,235,976     1,763,863     285,103       306.6  

Decrease in refundable deposits for telephone installation

    (140,720 )   (128,331 )   (51,197 )     (55.1 )

Reacquisition of account receivables (note 23(g))

    —       —       (200,000 )     (215.1 )

Reacquisition of treasury stock in consolidated subsidiaries

    (151,308 )   (13,366 )   (164,884 )     (177.3 )

Increase of consolidated subsidiaries’ paid-in capital

    —       494,311     —         —    

Acquisition of treasury stock (note 22(d))

    —       —       (213,664 )     (229.7 )

Acquisition of additional equity interest in consolidated subsidiaries

    (609 )   (190 )   (363,868 )     (391.3 )

Proceeds from sale of consolidated subsidiary’s treasury stock

    —       69,455     7,698       8.3  

Other, net

    4,499     (265 )   (8,604 )     (9.3 )
   


 

 

 


Net cash used in financing activities

    (106,495 )   (3,725,275 )   (2,416,834 )     (2,598.7 )
   


 

 

 


Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents from change of subsidiaries in consolidated financial statements

    —       53,050     (3,571 )     (3.8 )
   


 

 

 


Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

    995,061     (209,286 )   281,926       303.1  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

    760,868     1,755,929     1,546,643       1,663.1  
   


 

 

 


Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

  (Won) 1,755,929     1,546,643     1,828,569     $ 1,966.2  
   


 

 

 


 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

F-7


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

December 31, 2005 and 2006

 

(1) Organization and Description of Business

 

KT Corporation (“KT” or the “Company”) commenced operations on January 1, 1982 through the segregation of specified operations from the Korean Ministry of Information and Communication (the “MIC”) for the purpose of contributing to the convenience in national life and improvement of public welfare through rational management of the public telecommunications business and improvement of telecommunications technology under the Korea Telecom Act.

 

Upon the repeal of the Korea Telecom Act as of October 1, 1997, KT became a government invested institution regulated by the Korean Commercial Code and changed its name from Korea Telecom to Korea Telecom Corp. pursuant to an amendment to its Articles of Incorporation. Shares of KT were listed on the Korea Stock Exchange on December 23, 1998. KT issued 24,282,195 additional shares on May 29, 1999 and issued American Depository Shares (“ADS”) representing these new shares and government owned shares. On July 2, 2001, additional ADS representing 55,502,161 government-owned shares were issued.

 

The Korean government gradually reduced its ownership interest in the Company since 1993 and completed the disposition of its ownership interest in the Company on May 24, 2002. On March 22, 2002, the Company changed its name from Korea Telecom Corp. to KT Corporation.

 

Under Korean law, the MIC and other government entities have extensive authority to regulate KT. The MIC has responsibility for approving rates for local service and interconnection services provided by KT. Beginning in January 1998, KT has responsibility for setting rates for domestic long-distance service, international long-distance service and other services without approval of the MIC.

 

In recent years, KT has been subject to increasing competition as a result of the government’s issuance of additional licenses to create competition in the telecommunications market and to foster new telecommunications business areas. Additionally, in June 1997, the MIC awarded a license to a second carrier to provide local telephone service. This new carrier commenced operations in 1999. A third carrier commenced international long-distance service in 1997 and domestic long-distance service in 1999. The entry of these new carriers into the local and long-distance telephone service markets has had, and is expected to continue to have, a negative impact on KT’s telephone service revenues and profitability.

 

(2) Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Basis of Presenting Consolidated Financial Statements

 

(a) Basis of Presenting Consolidated Financial Statements

 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been extracted from Company’s Korean language consolidated financial statements that were prepared using accounting principals, procedures and reporting practices generally accepted in the Republic of Korea (“Korean GAAP”). The consolidated financial statements have been translated from those issued in the Korean language into the English language, and have been modified to allow for the formatting of the consolidated financial statements in a manner which is different from the presentation under Korean financial statements practices. In addition, certain modifications have been made in the accompanying consolidated financial statements to bring the formal presentation into conformity with practices outside of Korea, and certain information included in the Korean language statutory consolidated financial statements, which management believes is not required for a fair presentation of Company’s financial position or results of operations, is not presented in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. The accompanying consolidated financial statements and their utilization are not designed for those who are not informed about Korean accounting principles, procedures and practices and furthermore are not intended to present the financial position and results of operations and cash flows in accordance with accounting principles and practices generally accepted in countries and jurisdictions other than the Republic of Korea.

 

F-8


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of KT and the following controlled subsidiaries (collectively referred to as the “Company”) as of December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006. Controlled subsidiaries include majority-owned entities by either KT or a controlled subsidiary, other entities where KT or its controlled subsidiary owns more than 30% of total outstanding common stock and is the largest shareholder and entities where KT or its controlled subsidiary have rights to appoint a majority of the members of the entities’ governing body. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated on consolidation.

 

   

Year of

obtaining control


 

Percentage

ownership (%) at
December 31


 

Primary business


Subsidiary


    2004

  2005

  2006

 

KT Freetel Co., Ltd. (“KTF”)*1

  1997   48.7   44.6   52.2   PCS business

KT Hitel Co., Ltd. (“KTH”)

  1992   65.9   65.9   65.9   Data communication

KT Submarine Co., Ltd. (“KTSC”)

  1995   36.9   36.9   36.9   Submarine cable construction and maintenance

KT Powertel Co., Ltd. (“KTP”)

  1985   44.9   44.9   44.9   Trunk radio system business

KT Networks Corporation (“KTN”)

  1986   100.0   100.0   100.0   Group telephone management

KT Linkus Co., Ltd.(“KTL”)

  1988   93.8   93.8   93.8   Public telephone maintenance

KT Commerce Inc. (“KTC”)*2

  2002   100.0   100.0   100.0   B2C, B2B service

KTF Technologies Inc. (“KTFT”)*3

  2002   70.8   73.1   74.9   PCS handset development

KTF M Hows (“KTFM”)*4

  2004   —     51.0   51.0   Mobile marketing

Korea Telecom America, Inc. (“KTAI”)

  1993   100.0   100.0   100.0   Foreign telecommunication business

Korea Telecom Philippines, Inc. (“KTPI”)

  1994   100.0   100.0   100.0   Foreign telecommunication business

New Telephone Company Inc. (“NTC”) (“NTC”)*5

  1998   72.5   72.5   80.0   Foreign telecommunication business

Korea Telecom Japan Co., Ltd.

  1999   100.0   100.0   100.0   Foreign telecommunication business

KT China Co., Ltd. (“KTCC”)

  2003   100.0   100.0   100.0   Foreign telecommunication business

KT Internal Venture Fund No. 1 *6

  2003   —     89.3   —     Investment fund

KT Internal Venture Fund No. 2 *6,7

  2003   —     94.3   94.3   Investment fund

KT Telecom Venture Fund No. 1 *6,8

  2000   —     90.0   90.0   Investment fund

KT Rental Corp. (“KTR”)*9

  2005   —     100.0   100.0   Rental service

KT Capital Co., Ltd. *10

  2006   —     —     100.0   Financing service

Sidus FNH Corporation (“Sidus FNH”) *11

  2005   —     51.0   51.0   Movie production

PT. KTF Indonesia (“KTFI”) *12

  2003   —     99.0   99.0   Foreign telecommunications

Sidus FNH Benex Cinema Investment Fund *13

  2006   —     —     43.3   Movie investment fund

Telecop Service Co., Ltd. *14

  2006   —     —     93.8   Security service

Olive Nine Co., Ltd. *15

  2006   —     —     19.7   Broadcasting production

 

F-9


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 


(*1) In 2004, KTF reacquired 7,073,200 shares of its common stock and retired these treasury shares resulting in a (Won)149,800 million charge to its retained earnings. Accordingly, KT’s equity ownership interest in KTF increased from 46.9% to 48.7%. In December 2005, KT’s equity ownership interest in KTF decreased from 48.7% to 44.6% due to the common stock issuance of KTF to NTT DoCoMo Inc. (note 23(b)).

 

During 2006, KT purchased 12,489,850 shares of KTF amounting to (Won)356,700 million. As a result, KT’s equity ownership interest in KTF increased to 50.8% as of August 20. In December 2006, due to retirement of treasury stock of KTF, KT’s equity ownership interest in KTF increased to 52.2% as of December 31, 2006.

 

(*2) The 100.0% ownership percentage in KTC represents the ownership of this entity by KT (19.0%) and KTH (81.0%).

 

(*3) During 2006, KTF purchased 27,397 shares of KTFT for consideration of (Won)1,658 million. As a result, KTF’s equity ownership in KTFT increased to 74.9%.

 

(*4) The 51.0% ownership percentage in KTFM represents the ownership of this entity by KTF. KTFM was accounted for under the cost method through 2004. In 2005, the Company accounted for KTFM as a subsidiary and began to consolidate.

 

(*5) During 2006, KT’s equity ownership interest in NTC increased from 72.5% at December 31, 2005 to 80.0% at December 31, 2006 due to the retirement of treasury stock of NTC.

 

(*6) The above funds were accounted for under the cost method through 2004. Due to the adoption of Statement of Accounting Standards (“SKAS”) No. 15 “Investment in Associates”, effective January 1, 2005, the Company accounted for the funds as subsidiaries and began to consolidate. Prior period amounts were not restated.

 

(*7) In 2006, KT Internal Venture Fund No. 1 was liquidated on July 12, 2006.

 

(*8) The 90.0% ownership percentage in KT Telecom Venture Fund No. 1 represents the ownership of this entity by KT (70.0%), KTH (10.0%) and KTF (10.0%).

 

(*9) In October 2005, through an internal restructuring process, KTN became two companies, KTN and KTR. KTN was split into KTN and KTR.

 

(*10) In December 2006, KTR was split into KTR and KT Capital Co., Ltd. There was no change in the equity interest before and after the split.

 

(*11) The 51.0% ownership percentage in Sidus FNH Corporation represents the ownership of this entity by KT (35.7%) and KTF (15.3%).

 

(*12) The 99.0% ownership percentage in PT. KTF Indonesia represents the ownership of this entity by KTF.

 

(*13) In November 2006, KT, KTF, KTH and Sidus FNH Corporation purchased 130 shares of Sidus FNH Benex Cinema Investment Fund amounting to (Won)13,000 million representing ownership interest of 13.3%(KT), 6.7% (KTF), 3.3%(KTH) and 20.0%(Sidus FNH Corporation), respectively.

 

(*14) In November 2006, KTL was split into KTL and Telecop Service Co., Ltd. There was no change in the equity interest before and after the split.

 

(*15) In December 2006, the Company purchased 8,750,000 shares of Olive Nine Co., Ltd. amounting to (Won)22,000 million resulting in a 19.7% ownership interest in Olive Nine Co., Ltd. As KT holds rights to appoint majority of board members of Olive Nine Co., Ltd., KT has control over Olive Nine Co., Ltd. As a result, Olive Nine Co., Ltd is included in the consolidated subsidiaries.

 

F-10


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

As of December 31, 2006, KT had issued guarantees of consolidated subsidiaries’ indebtedness and contract performance as follows:

 

     Millions

Related party


   Initial
guarantee amount


   Remaining guarantee as of
December 31, 2006


KTSC

   (Won) 53,917    (Won) 33,805

NTC

     11,155      929
    

  

     (Won) 65,072    (Won) 34,734
    

  

 

As of December 31, 2006, KTPI had issued guarantees of indebtedness of Republic Telecommunication Holdings, Inc. an equity method investee of KTPI, amounting to (Won)168 million.

 

Significant account balances of KT which occurred in the normal course of business with and between subsidiaries as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows (these amounts have been eliminated in consolidation):

 

     Millions

Balance Sheet Items


   2005

   2006

Notes and accounts receivable—trade

   (Won) 239,545    284,060

Accounts receivable—other

     16,220    14,885

Accounts payable—other

     344,207    303,434

Other current liabilities-key money deposits

     35,298    29,902

 

Significant account balances which occurred in the normal course of business between KT and its equity method investees as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

        Millions

Transaction Parties


 

Balance Sheet Items


  2005

  2006

Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co. (“KDB”)

  Notes and accounts receivable-trade   (Won) 88,891   28,678

Other equity method investee

  Notes and accounts receivable-trade     24,840   5,764

Pivotec Co., Ltd

  Accounts payable-other     15,008   7,172

eNtoB Corp. (“eNtoB”)

  Accounts payable-other     24,639   23,283

Korea Information Data Corp. (“KOID”)

  Accounts payable-other     15,895   16,136

Korea Telecom Realty Development and Management Co., Ltd. (“KTRD”)

  Accounts payable-other     14,879   18,789

Korea Information Service Corp. (“KOIS”)

  Accounts payable-other     10,709   11,969

Goodmorning F Co., Ltd. (“Goodmorning F”)

  Accounts payable-other     2,678   8,104

Other equity method investee

  Accounts payable-other     460   1,846

 

F-11


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Significant transactions of which occurred in the normal course of business with and between subsidiaries for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows (these amounts have been eliminated in consolidation):

 

     Millions

     2004

   2005

   2006

Operating revenues

   (Won) 891,233    889,505    801,538

Operating expenses

     1,124,463    1,407,152    1,386,853

Contributions received for losses on universal telecommunications services

     25,557    9,778    14,977

Other income

     10,307    3,455    110

Purchase of property, plant and equipment

     —      120,122    —  

 

Significant transactions which occurred in the normal course of business between KT and its equity method investees for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

    

Income statement items


   Millions

Transaction Parties


      2004

   2005

   2006

KDB

   Operating revenues    (Won) 131,685    120,590    89,520

KOID

   Operating revenues      10,676    11,983    12,666

KOIS

   Operating revenues      7,934    10,262    17,610

Other equity method investee

   Operating revenues      1,872    3,831    1,680

KOID

   Operating expenses      102,624    99,809    111,425

Goodmorning F

   Operating expenses      74,058    54,742    50,677

KTRD

   Operating expenses      —      25,952    58,035

KOIS

   Operating expenses      71,778    71,488    75,806

Pivotech Co., Ltd.

   Operating expenses      43,499    33,360    33,399

eNtoB

   Operating expenses      86,406    130,712    132,655

Other equity method investee

   Operating expenses      7,321    5,063    8,178

 

(b) Cash Equivalents

 

The Company considers short-term financial instruments with maturities of three months or less at the acquisition date to be cash equivalents.

 

(c) Financial Instruments

 

Short-term financial instruments are instruments managed by financial institutions which are held for short-term cash management purposes or will mature within one year, including time deposits, installment savings deposits and restricted bank deposits.

 

(d) Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

 

Trade notes and accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. The allowance for doubtful accounts is the Company’s best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in the Company’s existing notes and accounts receivable. The Company determines the allowance for doubtful notes and accounts receivable based on an analysis of portfolio quality and historical write-off experience. Account balances are charged off against the allowance after all means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote.

 

F-12


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Changes in the allowances for doubtful accounts for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

     Millions

 
     2004

    2005

    2006

 

Balance at beginning of year

   (Won) 646,273     702,635     613,873  

Provision

     287,073     120,048     111,285  

Write-offs

     (230,711 )   (208,810 )   (161,994 )
    


 

 

Balance at end of year

   (Won) 702,635     613,873     563,164  
    


 

 

 

(e) Inventories

 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Cost is determined by the moving-average cost method, except for materials in transit for which cost is determined by the specific identification method. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less the estimated selling cost. The Company records inventory valuation losses in its cost of goods sold which is a component of operating expenses.

 

(f) Investments in Securities

 

Upon acquisition, the Company classifies debt and equity securities, excluding investment securities under the equity method of accounting, into one of the three categories: held-to-maturity, available-for-sale, or trading securities and such determination is reassessed at each balance sheet date. Investments in debt securities that the Company has the positive intention and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held-to-maturity. Securities that are bought and held principally for the purpose of selling them in the near term (thus held for only a short period of time) are classified as trading securities. Trading generally reflects active and frequent buying and selling, and trading securities are generally used to generate profit on short-term differences in price. Investments, excluding investment securities under the equity method of accounting, not classified as either held-to-maturity or trading securities are classified as available-for-sale securities.

 

Trading securities are carried at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses included in earnings. Available-for-sale securities are carried at fair value when it is available, with unrealized holding gains and losses reported as a component of capital adjustment, net of tax. When the fair value is not readily determinable, they are carried at cost. Realized gains and losses are determined using the specific identification method based on the trade date of a transaction. Investments in debt securities that are classified into held-to-maturity are reported at amortized cost at the balance sheet date and such amortization is included in interest income.

 

Marketable securities are stated at the quoted market prices as of the year end. Non-marketable debt securities are recorded at the fair values derived from the discounted cash flows by using an interest rate deemed to approximate the market interest rate. The market interest rate is determined by the issuers’ credit rate announced by the accredited credit rating agencies in Korea. Beneficiary certificates, which are securities indicating beneficiary right on certain investment securities held by investment management companies, are recorded at fair value as determined by the investment management companies.

 

Trading securities shall be classified as current assets, whereas available-for-sale securities and held-to-maturity securities shall be classified as long-term investments. However, available-for-sale securities, whose maturity dates are due within one year from the balance sheet date or whose likelihood of being disposed of within one year from the balance sheet date is probable, are classified as current assets. Likewise, held-to-maturity securities whose maturity dates are due within one year from the balance sheet date are classified as current assets.

 

F-13


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

A decline in market value of any available-for-sale or held-to-maturity security below cost that is deemed to be other-than-temporary results in a reduction in carrying amount to fair value and the impairment loss is charged to current results of operations.

 

(g) Investment Securities Under the Equity Method of Accounting

 

For investments in companies, whether or not publicly held, that are not controlled, but under the Company’s significant influence, the Company utilizes the equity method of accounting. Significant influence is generally deemed to exist if the Company can exercise influence over the operating and financial policies of an investee. The ability to exercise that influence may be indicated in several ways, such as the Company’s representation on its board of directors, the Company’s participation in its policy making processes, material transactions with the investee, interchange of managerial personnel, or technological dependency. Also, if a member of the Company owns directly or indirectly 20% or more of the voting stock of an investee and the investee is not required to be consolidated (see note 2(a)), the Company generally presumes that the investee is under significant influence. Effective January 1, 2005, the Company adopted SKAS No. 15 “Investment in Associates”. In accordance with SKAS No. 15, the Company accounted for the funds using the equity method. As allowed by the statement, the Company did not restate the prior year balances and presented the cummulative effect as of January 1, 2005, amounting to (Won)4,528 million as equity in losses of affiliates in the 2005 consolidated financial statements.

 

Under the equity method of accounting, the Company’s initial investment is recorded at cost and is subsequently increased to reflect the Company’s share of the investee income and reduced to reflect the Company’s share of the investee losses or dividends received. Any excess in the Company’s acquisition cost over the Company’s share of the investee’s fair value of identifiable net assets is generally recorded as investor-level goodwill or other intangibles and amortized by the straight-line method over the estimated useful life. The amortization of goodwill or other intangibles is recorded against the equity income (losses) of affiliates. When events or circumstances indicate that carrying amount may not be recoverable, the Company reviews investor-level goodwill or other intangible for impairment.

 

Assets and liabilities of foreign-based companies accounted for using the equity method are translated at current rate of exchange at the balance sheet date while income and expense items in the consolidated statement of earnings are translated at average rate and capital accounts at historical rate. The translation gains and losses arising from collective translation of the foreign currency financial statements of foreign-based companies are offset and the balance is accumulated as capital adjustment.

 

Under the equity method of accounting, the Company does not record its share of losses of an affiliate when such losses would make the Company’s investment in such entity less than zero unless the Company has guaranteed obligations of the investee or is otherwise committed to provide additional financial support. If the Company holds preferred stock or long-term debt issued by the affiliate, the Company’s share of loss of the affiliate remains recorded until such investment is reduced to zero.

 

(h) Property, Plant and Equipment

 

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost. Improvements that significantly extend the life of an asset or add to its productive capacity are capitalized. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. Property, plant and equipment contributed by the Korean government on January 1, 1982 are stated at net revalued amounts.

 

F-14


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Depreciation is computed using the declining-balance method (except for buildings, structures, underground access to cable tunnels, and concrete and steel telephone poles, as well as the assets of KTF and certain other subsidiaries which are depreciated using the straight-line method due to the characteristics and nature of property, plant and equipment) based on the following estimated useful lives of the related assets:

 

     Estimated useful
lives (years)


Buildings and structures

   5-60

Machinery and equipment:

    

Underground access to cable tunnels, and concrete and steel telephone poles

   20-40

Other

   3-15

Vehicles

   3-10

Tools, furniture and fixtures:

    

Steel safe boxes

   20

Tools, computer equipment, furniture and fixtures

   2-8

 

The Company recognizes interest costs and other financial charges on borrowings associated with the production, acquisition, or construction of property, plant and equipment as an expense in the period in which they are incurred.

 

The Company tests for impairment of property, plant and equipment, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. An impairment loss would be recognized when estimated undiscounted future net cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition are less than its carrying amount. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets.

 

(i) Contributions Received for Capital Expenditures

 

Contributions received from governmental and related entities for capital expenditures are reflected as a reduction of the acquisition cost of the acquired assets and, accordingly, reduce depreciation expense related to the acquired assets over their useful lives. Contributions received, which have yet to be disbursed for capital expenditures, are presented as a deduction of received assets.

 

(j) Intangible Assets

 

(i) Goodwill

 

Goodwill, which represents the excess of the acquisition cost over the fair value of net identifiable assets acquired related to consolidated entities that are being consolidated, is amortized on a straight-line basis over its estimated economic useful life.

 

Accounting for the difference between the acquisition cost and the amount of underlying equity of a purchased entity differs depending on whether (1) the acquisition of the controlling interest of an investee is the original acquisition or (2) the purchase represents an additional equity purchase of a controlled entity. When the Company first acquires a controlling financial interest of an entity, the difference between the acquisition cost and the corresponding proportionate share of the entity’s identifiable net assets’ fair value is recorded as goodwill. However, for additional equity purchases of existing consolidated subsidiaries, such difference is recorded as a reduction of stockholders’ equity (capital surplus).

 

F-15


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Amortization of goodwill of (Won)212,210 million, (Won)130,113 million and (Won)133,988 million for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively, and amortization of negative goodwill of (Won)518 million, (Won)517 million and (Won)518 million for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively, are included in operating expenses and other income, respectively, in the consolidated statements of earnings and retained earnings.

 

(ii) Other Intangible Assets

 

Other intangible assets, consisting of exclusive rights usage and software, are stated at cost less accumulated amortization. Amortization is computed using the straight-line method over periods which range from 15 months to 50 years. The Company has monopolistic and exclusive rights to control buildings and facilities utilization and copyrights by contract or related laws. Accordingly, the Company amortizes those intangible assets over the period of 30 or 50 years based on contract or related laws.

 

(iii) Research and Development Costs

 

The Company charges research and development costs to expense as incurred. However, development costs which are recoverable from future earnings are deferred and amortized over their estimated useful lives. In addition, internal software development costs, after technological feasibility is established, such as those associated with Broadband Integrated Services Digital Network (B-ISDN), New Operations Support System (NeOSS) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), are accounted for as intangible assets and amortized by the straight-line method over their estimated economic useful lives from 3 to 6 years.

 

The Company expensed research and development costs of (Won)265,207 million, (Won)267,458 million and (Won)216,896 million for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively. In addition, the Company capitalized development costs, which consist entirely of software, of (Won)103,374 million, (Won)100,891 million and (Won)129,209 million for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

The Company reviews for impairment of intangible assets, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets.

 

(k) Advertising Costs

 

The Company expenses advertising costs as incurred. These expenses include media and other promotional and sponsoring costs.

 

(l) Valuation of Receivables at Present Value

 

Receivables arising from extended payment terms, which generally involve sales of personal communication service (“PCS”) handsets, are stated at present value, and the difference between the nominal value and present value is deducted directly from the nominal value of related sales revenue and is amortized using the effective interest method over the payment period. The amount amortized is included in interest income.

 

(m) Convertible Notes

 

When issuing convertible bonds, the values of the conversion rights are recognized separately in other capital surplus. Considerations for conversion rights are measured by deducting the present value of ordinary or straight debt securities (redemption premium is included if applicable) from the gross proceeds of the convertible bonds received at the date of issue.

 

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KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Convertible securities issued prior to January 1, 2003, the effective date of Statement of Korean Accounting Standards(“SKAS”) No. 9, Convertible Securities, are treated in accordance with the previous accounting standard which does not require separate recognition of the conversion feature and have not been restated. The Company recognizes interest expense on convertible notes as determined using the effective interest method and amortization of redemption premium as redemption premium on convertible notes.

 

(n) Retirement and Severance Benefits

 

Employees who have been with the Company for more than one year are entitled to lump sum payments based on current rates of pay and length of service when they leave the Company. The Company’s estimated liability under the plan which would be payable if all employees left on the balance sheet date is accrued in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. A portion of the liability is covered by an employees’ severance benefits insurance where the employees have a vested interest in the deposit with the insurance company.

 

(o) Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets

 

Prior to January 1, 2005, contingent liabilities were recognized when probable and reasonably estimable. Effective January 1, 2005, the Company adopted SKAS No.17 “Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets”. In accordance with the standard, provisions are recognized when all of the following are met: (1) an entity has a present obligation as a result of a past event, (2) it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation, and (3) a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.

 

In cases where an obligation is settled, the Company recognizes the amount reimbursable from a third party as a separate asset when it is virtually certain that the reimbursement will be received. In such case, income, if any, recognized on receipt of the reimbursement is presented net of the charges made in connection with the provision.

 

The Company records an accrual for the marketing costs associated with providing gifts under the customer call bonus program when call bonus points are earned. The accrual is presented in other long-term liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The accrual is adjusted periodically based on points earned, points redeemed and changes in estimated costs. Increase in the provision is recorded in operating expense and decrease due to write-off or change in estimate is recorded as other income.

 

(p) Revenue Recognition

 

The Company derives revenue principally from telephone service, PCS service, Internet service, and data communication service. Revenues derived from telephone services are recognized on a service-rendered basis. Interconnection fees from domestic and foreign telecommunications operators are recognized when the services are rendered as measured by the minutes of traffic processed.

 

PCS service revenues consist of PCS handset sales, non-refundable initial subscription fees, fixed monthly access fees and usage charges. The Company recognizes sales on PCS handsets when these are delivered to the dealers, fixed monthly access fees in the period earned, and usage charges at the time services are rendered.

 

Internet service revenue and data communication service revenue consist of non-refundable initial connection service fees and fixed monthly fees. The Company recognized fixed monthly fees in the month that fees are charged.

 

F-17


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Non-refundable initial connection service fees for telephone service, Internet service, PCS service and data communication service are recognized when the connection services are performed.

 

(q) Foreign Currency Translation

 

Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into Korean Won at the balance sheet date. Unrealized foreign currency translation gains and losses on monetary assets and liabilities are included in current results of operations. As of December 31, 2005 and 2006, monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into Korean Won at (Won)1,013.0 to US$1 and (Won)929.6 to US$1, respectively. Non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies, which are stated at historical cost, are translated into Korean Won at the foreign exchange rate at the date of the transaction.

 

The Company accounts for foreign exchange translation gains and losses on all borrowings as an expense in the period in which they are incurred.

 

(r) Derivatives

 

Derivative instruments, regardless of whether they are entered into for trading or hedging purposes, are valued at fair value. Derivative contracts not meeting the requirements for hedge accounting treatment are classified as trading contracts with the changes in fair value included in current operations. For the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, all derivative instruments were recorded as trading contracts.

 

(s) Leases

 

Prior to January 1, 2006, the Company accounted for and classified its lease transactions as either an operating or capital lease, depending on the terms of the lease under Korean Lease Accounting Standards. If a lease is substantially noncancellable and meets one or more of the criteria listed below, the present value of future minimum lease payments is reflected as an obligation under a capital lease.

 

   

Ownership of the leased property transfers to the lessee at the end of the lease term without additional payment or for a contract price.

 

   

The lease has a bargain purchase option.

 

   

The lease term is equal to 75% or more of the estimated economic useful life of the leased property.

 

   

The present value at the beginning of the lease term of the minimum lease payments equals or exceeds 90% of the fair value of the leased property.

 

Otherwise, the lease was classified as an operating lease and lease payments expensed as incurred on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

 

Effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted SKAS No. 19, Leases. Under this standard, the above capital lease criteria have been amended. Specifically, the premise of substantially noncancellable lease has been removed and the criterion of a bargain purchase option has been modified to include also a reasonable certainty, at the inception of the lease, that the option will be exercised. In addition, if the leased property is specialized to the extent that only the lessee can use it without any major modification, it would be considered a capital lease.

 

As allowed under the transition clause of SKAS No. 19, the Company continues to account for its lease transactions with lease term commencing prior to the effective of SKAS No.19, under Korean Lease Accounting Standards.

 

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Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(t) Income Taxes

 

Income tax expense or benefit on earnings includes both current and deferred taxes. Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the period, using tax rates enacted at the balance sheet date. Deferred tax is provided using the asset and liability method, providing for temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period of the expected enactment date.

 

Prior to January 1, 2005, deferred taxes were not recognized for temporary differences related to unrealized gains and losses on investment securities that were reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity. However, effective January 1, 2005, the Company adopted SKAS No. 16 “Income Taxes”. In accordance with the statement, deferred taxes are recognized on the temporary differences related to unrealized gains and losses on investment securities that are reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity. The adoption of SKAS No. 16 did not have a significant impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

A deferred tax asset is recognized only to the extent that it is probable that such deferred tax asset is recoverable in a future period. Deferred tax assets are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the related tax benefit will be realized. In accordance with Application of Korea Accounting Standard (“AKAS”) 06-2, “Deferred Tax Accounting for Investments in Subsidiaries, Affiliated Companies Accounted for Using the Equity Method, and Interest in Joint Ventures,” evaluation of tax benefit, if any, for subsidiaries and affiliates is based on the net deferred tax asset or liability of all temporary differences arising from the same affiliate rather than on an individual basis.

 

Deferred taxes are recognized on the temporary differences related to unrealized gains and losses of available-for-sale securities and reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity.

 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are classified as current or non-current based on the classification of the related asset or liability for financial reporting or the expected reversal date of the temporary difference. The deferred tax amounts are presented as a net current asset or liability and a net non-current asset or liability, as appropriate.

 

(u) Dividends Payable

 

Annual dividends are recorded upon resolution by the board of directors and approved by the shareholders. However, interim dividends are recorded when approved by the board of directors based on authority granted by the Company’s articles of incorporation.

 

(v) Stock Options

 

The stock option program allows the Company’s directors and officers to acquire Company shares for a specified price at specified times. The option exercise price is generally fixed at above the market price of underlying shares at the date of the grant. The Company values stock options based upon an option-pricing model (Black-Scholes model) under the fair value method and recognizes this value as an expense over the period in which the options vest.

 

When the options are exercised, equity is increased by the amount of the proceeds received, and the values of options exercised is credited to the capital surplus. When stock options are forfeited because the specified

 

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Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

vesting requirements are not satisfied, previously recognized compensation costs and corresponding capital adjustment account are reversed to earnings. When stock options expire unexercised, previously recognized compensation costs and corresponding capital adjustment account are reversed to capital surplus.

 

(w) Payment of a handset subsidy to mobile phone users

 

According to the provisions of the Telecommunications Business Law (the “Law”), as revised in February 15, 2006, KT and KTF are allowed to provide a one time handset subsidy to eligible mobile phone users within the next two years beginning March 27, 2006. The handset subsidy is paid in cash to the customer through a retailer upon the customers’ request following the purchase of a handset. The subsidy is intended to offset a portion of the cost of the handset. Pursuant to the Law, KT and KTF may establish its subsidy policy regarding the eligibility criteria and amount of payment. Consistent with the Law, KT and KTF provide a subsidy for mobile phone users through a retailer who have subscribed to the Company’s service or any other mobile carriers for 18 consecutive months. Moreover, KT and KTF have the right to discontinue the payment depending on its marketing strategies, if necessary. However, KT and KTF are required to report changes in the service agreement, should they take place, to the Ministry of Information and Communication within 30 days of the effective date. The costs for the handset subsidies, which are provided by the Company to obtain new customer relationships or renew existing customer relationships, are expensed as incurred and recorded as commissions to sales agents included in operating expense.

 

(x) Earnings Per Share

 

Basic earnings per common share are calculated by dividing net earnings available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during each period.

 

Diluted earnings per share are calculated by dividing net earnings available to common stockholders plus interest expenses, net of tax, of the convertible notes by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding adjusted to include the potentially dilutive effect of the convertible notes, unless the effect would be antidilutive.

 

Stock options were not considered when calculating diluted earnings per share because the exercise price of the stock options was greater then the average market price of the common share and, therefore, the effect would have been antidilutive.

 

(y) Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the Republic of Korea requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and related notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

(z) Minority Interest in Consolidated Subsidiaries

 

Minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries is presented as a separate component of stockholders’ equity in the consolidated balance sheets.

 

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Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(aa) Foreign Currency Translation of Foreign Subsidiaries

 

Assets and liabilities of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries and operations are translated into Korean Won at the rates of exchange in effect at the balance sheet date. Income and expense items are translated at the average exchange rates prevailing during the fiscal year. Gains and losses resulting from such translation of financial statements are recognized as a foreign-based operations translation capital adjustment within stockholders’ equity.

 

(ab) Accounting for the Disposition of an Equity Interest in a Consolidated Subsidiary

 

Gains or losses on the Company’s sale of a subsidiary’s stock is recognized in income if, after the sale of the equity interest, the entity is no longer consolidated. If the entity remains a consolidated subsidiary, the Company records the difference between net proceeds and the carrying amount of the stock as capital adjustment within stockholders’ equity.

 

(ac) Recent Changes in the Statements of Korea Financial Accounting Standards

 

Effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted SKAS No. 19 Lease, and No. 20 Related Party Disclosures. The adoption of these standards did not have a significant impact on the accompanying consolidated financial statements. In addition, the Company adopted the Application of Korea Accounting Standard (“AKAS”) 06-2 Deferred Tax Accounting for Investments in Subsidiaries, Affiliated Companies Accounted for Using the Equity Method, and Interest in Joint Ventures. As explained in note 29, with the adoption of AKAS 06-2, certain accounts of prior year’s consolidated financial statements have been restated as required by this standard.

 

(ad) Fair Value of Financial Instruments

 

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each significant class of financial instruments for which it was practicable to estimate such value:

 

(i) Cash and cash equivalents, short-term financial instruments, notes and accounts receivable—trade, accounts receivable—other, available-for-sale securities, notes and accounts payable—trade, short-term borrowings and accrued expenses

 

The carrying amount approximates fair value because these instruments are carried at fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments.

 

(ii) Investment securities

 

The fair value of equity securities of non-affiliates and debt securities are estimated based on quoted market prices. For those investments for which there were no quoted market prices, a reasonable estimate of fair value could not be made without incurring excessive costs. Additional information pertinent to the fair value of unquoted investments is provided below.

 

(iii) Loans to employees

 

The carrying amount of loans included in other current assets approximate fair value due to the short term maturities of these loans. The fair value of long-term loans in other assets is estimated based on discounted cash flows using current rates offered for loans of the same remaining maturities.

 

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KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(iv) Long-term debt

 

The fair value of the long-term debt, including the current portion, is estimated based on quoted market prices for the same or similar issues or on the current rates offered for debt of the same remaining maturities.

 

(v) Interest rate swaps, interest currency swaps and other derivatives

 

The fair values of interest rate swaps, interest currency swaps, interest currency swaps and other derivatives are estimated based on quotes obtained from dealers.

 

The estimated fair values of the Company’s significant financial instruments at December 31, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

     2005 (millions)

   2006 (millions)

     Carrying
amount


   Fair value

   Carrying
amount


   Fair value

Cash and cash equivalents

   (Won) 1,546,643    1,546,643    1,828,569    1,828,569

Short-term financial instruments

     640,077    640,077    312,592    312,592

Notes and accounts receivable—trade

     2,455,882    2,455,882    2,575,853    2,575,853

Accounts receivable—other

     285,224    285,224    297,330    297,330

Trading securities

     250,165    250,165    31,358    31,358

Available-for-sale securities:

                     

•    Practicable to estimate fair value

     34,416    34,416    237,633    237,633

•    Not practicable

     44,312    N/A    33,039    N/A

Held-to-maturity securities

     105,070    105,068    440    425

Interest rate swap—asset

     9,055    9,055    9,290    9,290

Other derivatives—asset

     946    946    —      —  

Loans to employees

     423,309    370,543    297,805    268,283

Notes and accounts payable—trade

     866,523    866,523    772,633    772,633

Short-term borrowings

     113,298    113,298    184,694    184,694

Accrued expenses

     457,615    457,615    421,893    421,893

Interest rate swap—liability

     15,165    15,165    6,850    6,850

Interest currency swap—liability

     112,738    112,738    161,437    161,437

Other derivatives

     3,696    3,696    1,692    1,692

Long-term debt, including current portion

     8,566,768    8,357,750    7,449,804    7,395,856

 

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Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

It was not practicable to estimate the fair value of investments in unlisted companies. Additional unaudited information as to total assets, stockholders’ equity (deficit), revenues and net income (loss) for these investments as of and for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

     Unaudited 2005 (millions)

 
     Percentage
ownership


   Carrying
amount


  

Total

assets


   Stock-
holders'
equity
(deficit)


    Revenues

   Net
income
(loss)


 

Onse Telecom

   8.6    (Won) 6,181    290,952    62,737     366,410    (30,946 )

Korea Software Financial Cooperative

   1.4      1,000    118,593    105,850     6,592    575  

Real Telecom Corporation

   6.5      —      18,321    (12,478 )   10,760    (9,048 )

Korea Information Certificate Authority, Inc.

   9.4      2,000    20,638    14,345     14,058    1,601  

Mirae Asset Securities Co., Ltd.

   4.4      5,000    1,347,772    305,288     298,394    62,696  

On Game Network Inc.

   11.4      1,061    23,438    18,844     27,040    5,278  

Other

   —        29,070    - - - - - - - -    Not available    - - - - - - - -  
         

                      
          (Won) 44,312                       
         

                      

 

     Unaudited 2006 (millions)

 
     Percentage
ownership


   Carrying
amount


   Total
assets


   Stock-
holders'
equity
(deficit)


    Revenues

   Net
income
(loss)


 

Korea Software Financial Cooperative

   1.6    (Won) 1,160    122,856    111,320     3,500    1,979  

Real Telecom Corporation

   6.5      —      2,870    (24,218 )   8,917    (14,943 )

Korea Information Certificate Authority, Inc.

   9.4      2,000    25,646    18,007     16,657    3,483  

On Game Network Inc.

   11.4      1,061    25,064    20,926     31,903    2,406  

Other

   —        28,818    - - - - - - - -    Not available    - - - - - -  
         

                      
          (Won) 33,039                       
         

                      

 

(3) Basis of Translating Consolidated Financial Statements

 

The consolidated financial statements are expressed in Korean won and, solely for the convenience of the reader, the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2006, have been translated into United States dollars at the rate of (Won)930.0 to US$1, the noon buying rate in the City of New York for cable transfers in Won as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York at December 29, 2006, the last day in 2006 for which such rate is available. The translation should not be construed as a representation that any or all of the amounts shown could be converted into U.S. dollars at this or any other rate.

 

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Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(4) Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

Cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

     Millions

     2005

   2006

Cash on hand

   (Won) 6,345    8,493

Checking accounts

     24,339    31,507

Passbook accounts

     50,882    46,952

Cash in transit

     406,790    340,836

Money market deposit accounts

     298,383    234,238

Money market fund

     656,872    58,863

Repurchase agreements (RPs)(*)

     7,000    103,424

Money trust accounts(*)

     —      722,121

Foreign currency deposits

     59,017    19,225

Time deposits

     —      190,000

Other

     37,015    72,910
    

  
     (Won) 1,546,643    1,828,569
    

  

(*) RPs and money trust accounts are required to be classified in accordance with their underlying investment portfolio. All investments held by these accounts mature in less than three months at the acquisition date and are classified as cash equivalents.

 

(5) Restricted Deposits

 

There are certain amounts included in short-term financial instruments and short-term and long-term financial instruments, which are included in other assets of the consolidated balance sheet, which are restricted in use for expenditures for certain business purposes as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 as follows:

 

     Millions

     2005

   2006

Short-term financial instruments

   (Won) 7,371    733

Long-term financial instruments

     89    39
    

  
     (Won) 7,460    772
    

  

 

(6) Inventories

 

Inventories as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

     Millions

 
     2005

    2006

 

Merchandise(*)

   (Won) 295,513     201,561  

Less: Valuation allowance

     (41,944 )   (42,973 )

Construction and repair materials

     53,696     21,686  

Other

     52,848     56,919  
    


 

     (Won) 360,113     237,193  
    


 


(*) Merchandise mainly consists of PCS handsets, PDA devices and fixed-line handsets.

 

F-24


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

The Company recognized inventory valuation losses of (Won)40,330 million and (Won)44,027 million included in cost of goods sold for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006.

 

(7) Other Current Assets

 

Other current assets as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

     Millions

     2005

   2006

Current portion of long-term loans to employees

   (Won) 114,205    113,881

Prepaid expenses

     33,495    41,838

Deposits

     90,361    44,043

Accrued interest income

     11,674    10,883

Short-term loans, net

     10,413    8,764

Fair value of derivative contracts (note 23(c))

     13,164    9,290

Other

     160    311
    

  
     (Won) 273,472    229,010
    

  

 

(8) Investments Securities

 

Investments in securities as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

(a) Trading securities (fair value)

 

     Millions

     2005

   2006

Beneficiary Certificates

   (Won) 250,165    31,358

 

(b) Available-for-sale securities

 

(i) Equity securities

 

     Percentage
of ownership (%)


  

Millions


     2005

   2006

   2005

   2006

Current assets:

                     

Knowledge Plant, Inc.*

   4.4.    —      (Won) 7,931    —  
    
  
  

  

 

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Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

     Percentage
of ownership (%)


   Carrying amount at
December 31


     2005

   2006

   2005

   2006

               (millions)     

Investment assets:

                     

Korea Software Financial Cooperative

   1.4    1.6    (Won) 1,000    1,160

Korea Information Certificate Authority, Inc.

   9.4    9.4      2,000    2,000

Mirae Asset Securities Co., Ltd.

   4.4    —        5,000    —  

On Game Network, Inc.

   11.4    11.4      1,061    1,061

GaeaSoft Corp.*

   2.1    2.1      1,438    1,084

KRTnet Corporation*

   7.5    7.5      4,416    4,200

Solid Technologies, Inc.*

   4.8    4.8      7,880    6,640

VACOM Wireless, Inc.

   16.8    16.8      719    641

ESTsoft Corp.

   15.0    15.0      1,650    1,650

CEC Mobile

   16.7    16.7      1,507    1,507

Onse Telecom

   8.6    —        6,181    —  

Wide Telecom, Inc.*

   0.5    0.5      24    13

Dalsvyaz*

   2.6    2.6      198    704

PT.Mobile-8*

   —      2.3      —      13,321

MBC ESS Sports, Inc.

   9.0    9.0      1,800    1,800

GEOTEL Corp.*

   —      7.8      —      2,970

ELUON Corp.*

   —      4.7      —      226

Other

   —      —        23,413    23,220
              

  
               (Won) 58,287    62,197
              

  

* Investments in these equity securities are recorded at fair value. All other equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values are stated at cost.

 

The Company recognized an impairment loss on available-for-sale securities that have no readily determinable fair value of (Won)6,945 million and (Won)4,185 million for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006, respectively. Also, the Company recognized a recovery of impairment loss on available-for-sale securities of (Won)227 million for the year ended December 31, 2006.

 

During 2006, the Company disposed of its investments in Knowledge Plant, Inc., Mirae Asset Securities Co., Ltd. and Onse Telecom, as well as certain other investments and recognized a gain, net on the disposal of available-for-sale securities amounting to (Won)78,444 million, collectively, for the year ended December 31, 2006.

 

(ii) Debt securities

 

    

Maturity


   Millions

        2005

   2006

Current assets:

                

Beneficiary certificates

   2007    (Won) 7,478    204,336
         

  

Investment assets:

                

Government and municipal bonds

   2008~2013    (Won) 1,816    1,273

Other

   2009      3,216    2,866
         

  
          (Won) 5,032    4,139
         

  

 

F-26


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(c) Changes in unrealized gains (losses)

 

Changes in unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities for the year ended December 31, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

     Millions

 
     2005

    2006

 

Beginning balance

   (Won) 7,797     11,672  

Changes in unrealized gains and losses, net

     11,802     4,280  

Realized gains on disposition of securities, net

     (7,927 )   (3,377 )
    


 

Balance at end of year

     11,672     12,575  
    


 

Deferred tax effect

     (2,374 )   (4,407 )
    


 

Balance at end of year, net of tax

   (Won) 9,298     8,168  
    


 

 

(d) Held-to-maturity securities

 

    

Maturity


   Millions

        2005

   2006

Current assets:

                

Government and municipal bonds

   2007    (Won) 98    32

Investment assets:

                

Government and municipal bonds

   2008~2012      567    308

Beneficiary certificates (note 23(g))

   2008      104,305    —  

Other

   2009      100    100
         

  
          (Won) 104,972    408
         

  

 

During 2003, KTF acquired beneficiary certificates issued by Shinhan Bank Trust in relation to the disposal of trade accounts and notes receivable. For the year ended December 31, 2005, KTF recognized the difference between the fair value of the receivables and sales proceeds as impairment loss of (Won)21,849 million which may arise from the uncollectibility of the trade accounts and notes receivable. On December 21, 2006, KTF early terminated the PCS service installment receivable transfer program with Shinhan Bank Trust and repurchased the remaining outstanding receivables in exchange of (Won)200,000 in cash and nullified the beneficiary certificates. The Company recorded the repurchased receivables at net realizeable value and recognized a gain of (Won)12,493 million. (see note 23(g))

 

F-27


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(9) Equity Securities of Affliates

 

Investments in affiliated companies accounted for using the equity method as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

    

Percentage
Ownership (%)


   Millions

        2005

   2006

     2005

   2006

   Net asset

    Book value

   Net asset

    Book value

Listed:

                                 

Hallim Venture Capital Corporation (“HVCC”)

   6.6    —      (Won) 1,701     —      —       —  

Unlisted:

                                 

Mongolian Telecommunications Co.

   40.0    40.0      8,586     8,586    9,321     9,321

Sky Life Contents Fund

   22.5    22.5      4,915     4,915    5,050     5,050

Korea Information Technology Fund

   33.3    33.3      102,853     102,853    101,609     101,609

Korea IT Venture Partners, Inc.

   28.0    28.0      8,891     8,891    9,204     9,204

Goodmorning F*

   19.0    19.0      508     508    826     826

KBSi Co., Ltd.

   32.4    32.4      2,638     2,638    2,810     2,810

Korea Telephone Directory Co., Ltd.

   34.0    34.0      6,410     6,410    7,867     7,867

eNtoB

   23.8    23.8      4,792     4,792    5,112     5,112

Pivotec Co., Ltd.*

   15.6    15.6      3,321     3,165    6,299     6,299

KTRD*

   19.0    19.0      1,978     1,978    2,375     2,375

KDB

   26.7    26.7      (17,440 )   28,169    (17,203 )   16,455

KOID*

   19.0    19.0      10,706     10,706    12,230     12,230

KOIS*

   19.0    19.0      6,803     6,803    8,382     8,382

Harex InfoTech Inc.

   21.2    21.2      1,166     2,698    753     1,902

KT Instrument & Communication Corp.

   19.0    —        413     413    —       —  

Bank Town Co., Ltd.

   19.0    —        572     572    —       —  

MOSTech Co., Ltd.*

   —      17.9      —       —      715     4,186

Korea Seoul Contact all Co.,Ltd.*

   —      19.0      —       —      228     228

Korea Service and Communication

                                 

Co., Ltd.*

   —      19.0      —       —      228     228

Korea Call Center Co., Ltd.*

   —      19.0      —       —      228     228

TMworld Co., Ltd.*

   —      19.0      —       —      228     228

Ubiquitous Marketing Service and

                                 

Communication Co., Ltd.*

   —      19.0      —       —      228     228

Olive Nine Entertainment Co., Ltd.

   —      100.0      —       —      (1,099 )   833

Olive Nine Creative Co., Ltd.

   —      42.9      —       —      249     249

The Contents Entertainment

   —      50.8      —       —      257     2,133

Tourtainment, Inc.

   —      24.6      —       —      134     134

BEP

   —      39.0      —       —      8,014     8,014

AGA Company

   —      25.1      —       —      (875 )   —  

KTF-CJ Music Contents Investment

                                 

Fund (Centurion Music 1)

   —      50.0      —       —      5,025     5,025
              


 
  

 
               (Won) 148,813     194,097    168,195     211,156
              


 
  

 

(*) The Company has significant influence over these affiliated companies due to the Company’s representation on its board of directors and material transactions with investee. As a result, the Company accounts for these investments in affiliated companies under the equity method.

 

F-28


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

During 2004, the Company’s investment in KDB was reduced to nil due to KDB’s operating losses and the Company impairing investor-level goodwill of (Won)37,030 million. As a result, as of December 31, 2004, the Company discontinued the use of the equity method of accounting for KDB since the Company did not provide any guarantees or have any commitments to provide additional financial support to KDB. However, in December 2005, KDB issued new shares in the amount of the (Won)46,000 million which were acquired by JP Morgan Whitefriars Inc. (including the rights to dividends and voting rights of the KDB shares). Related to this share issuance by KDB, the Company and JP Morgan Chase Bank entered into a ‘Put and Call Combination’ contract based on the related shares of KDB amounting to (Won)46,000 million plus a cash premium of (Won)7,383 million. Under this contract, KT has the option to acquire the KDB shares of JP Morgan Whitefriars Inc. during the period from December 29, 2007 to December 29, 2008. Otherwise, JP Morgan Chase Bank has the option to exercise the put-option to KT on December 29, 2008. The exercise price under the contract for both KT and JP Morgan Chase Bank is (Won)46,000 million. The Company recorded the right and obligation of the option (including the premium) amounting to (Won)53,383 million as equity investment in KDB and a long-term payable under the put and call agreement of (Won)46,000 million as of December 31, 2005.

 

In addition, as of December 31, 2005, the Company has resumed the equity method of accounting for its investment in KDB and considers its equity ownership percentage with the right and obligation of the contract when applying the equity method of accounting. As a result of resuming the equity method of accounting for KDB during 2005, the Company recognized equity in losses of (Won)25,214 million and (Won) 11,803 million relating to its investment in KDB for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

In 2005, KTH accounted for its investment in HVCC under the equity method of accounting due to its significant management control. However, in 2006, KTH does not have rights to appoint board members of HVCC due to an amendment of the shareholders’ agreement. As a result, the Company reclassified its investment in HVCC into available-for-sales securities and disposed of shares in HVCC in 2006 and recognized a gain on disposition of available-for-sale securities amounting to (Won)745 million.

 

In 2006, KT established five Call Center Corporations (Korea Seoul Contact all Co., Ltd., Korea Service and Communication Co., Ltd., Korea Call Center Co., Ltd., TMworld Co., Ltd., Ubiquitous Marketing Service and Communication Co., Ltd.) and KT purchased 45,600 shares of each Call Center amounting to (Won)228 million, respectively. As a result, KT obtained 19.0% of ownership interest in each Call Center Corporations.

 

In 2006, KT purchased 200,000 shares of Mostech Co., Ltd. amounting to (Won)5,000 million. As a result, KT obtained 18.6% of ownership interest in Mostech Co., Ltd. In December 2006, Mostech Co., Ltd. issued new shares which were not acquired by KT. As a result, KT’s equity ownership interest in Mostech Co., Ltd. decreased to 17.9% and KT recognized a gain on disposition of securities of affiliates amounting to (Won)158 million.

 

Olive Nine Co., Ltd, a newly consolidated subsidiary in 2006, accounts for investments in Olive Nine Entertainment Co., Ltd., Olive Nine Creative Co., Ltd., The Contents Entertainment and Tourtainment, Inc. under the equity method of accounting.

 

In 2006, Sidus FNH Corporation purchased 6,686 shares of AGA Company amounting to (Won)156 million. As a result, Sidus FNH Corporation obtained 25.1% of ownership interest in AGA Company.

 

The 39.0% ownership percentage in BEP represents the ownership of this entity by KTF.

 

In 2006, KTF purchased shares of KTF-CJ Music Contents Investment Fund (Centurion Music 1) amounting to (Won)5,000 million. As a result, KTF obtained 50.0% ownership interest in KTF-CJ Music Contents Investment Fund (Centurion Music 1).

 

F-29


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

In January 2006, KT disposed of all of its holdings of equity shares in Bank Town Co., Ltd. and recognized a gain on disposition of securities of affiliates amounting to (Won)4,871 million. In October 2006, KT disposed of all of its holdings of equity shares in KT Instrument & Communication Corp. and recognized a loss on disposition of securities of affiliates amounting to (Won)143 million.

 

The Company received dividends of (Won)2,175 million and (Won)1,247 million from affiliates for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006.

 

Investments in affiliated companies under the equity method of accounting as of December 31, 2005 are as follows:

 

    Millions

    Cost

  Equity in
retained
earnings (deficit)


    Equity
income (loss)
in 2005


    Unrealized
gains
(losses)


   

Other
decrease

in 2005


    Book
value


Listed:

                                 

HVCC

  (Won) 5,590   (5,696 )   106     —       —       —  

Unlisted:

                                 

Mongolian Telecommunications Co.

    3,450   10,323     735     (5,922 )   —       8,586

Sky Life Contents Fund

    4,500   —       415     —       —       4,915

Korea Information Technology Fund

    100,000   —       4,952     —       (2,099 )   102,853

Korea IT Venture Partners, Inc.

    9,000   1,196     (1,379 )   74     —       8,891

Goodmorning F

    254   475     (108 )   (88 )   (25 )   508

KBSi Co., Ltd.

    4,760   (3,095 )   972     1     —       2,638

Korea Telephone Directory Co., Ltd.

    6,800   1,977     (2,367 )   —       —       6,410

eNtoB

    3,800   3     989     —       —       4,792

Pivotec Co., Ltd.

    3,011   283     106     (235 )   —       3,165

KTRD

    506   945     496     82     (51 )   1,978

KDB

    185,274   (131,891 )   (25,214 )   —       —       28,169

KOID

    3,800   5,338     1,568     —       —       10,706

KOIS

    2,850   3,157     796     —       —       6,803

Sports ToTo On-Line

    1,500   (396 )   (115 )   —       (989 )   —  

Harex Info Tech Inc.

    3,375   —       (839 )   162     —       2,698

KT Instrument & Communication Corp.

    95   259     59     —       —       413

Bank Town Co., Ltd.

    190   379     10     (7 )   —       572
   

 

 

 

 

 
    (Won) 338,755   (116,743 )   (18,818 )   (5,933 )   (3,164 )   194,097
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

F-30


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Investments in affiliated companies under the equity method of accounting as of December 31, 2006 are as follows:

 

    Millions

    Cost

  Equity in
retained
earnings (deficit)


    Equity
income (loss)
in 2006


    Unrealized
gains
(losses)


    Other increase
(decrease)
in 2006


   

Book

value


Unlisted:

                                 

Mongolian Telecommunications Co.

  (Won) 3,450   11,058     1,647     (6,252 )   (582 )   9,321

Sky Life Contents Fund

    4,500   415     135     —       —       5,050

Korea Information Technology Fund

    100,000   2,853     (1,357 )   379     (266 )   101,609

Korea IT Venture Partners, Inc.

    9,000   (183 )   645     (258 )   —       9,204

Goodmorning F

    254   342     315     (85 )   —       826

KBSi Co., Ltd.

    4,760   (2,123 )   174     (1 )   —       2,810

Korea Telephone Directory Co., Ltd.

    6,800   (390 )   1,456     1     —       7,867

eNtoB

    3,800   992     320     —       —       5,112

Pivotec Co., Ltd.

    3,011   389     (462 )   3,361     —       6,299

KTRD

    506   1,390     530     82     (133 )   2,375

KDB

    185,274   (157,105 )   (11,803 )   89     —       16,455

KOID

    3,800   6,906     1,676     —       (152 )   12,230

KOIS

    2,850   3,953     1,693     —       (114 )   8,382

Harex Info Tech Inc.

    3,375   (839 )   (796 )   162     —       1,902

KT Instrument & Communication Corp.

    95   318     34     —       (447 )   —  

Bank Town Co,. Ltd.

    190   389     —       —       (579 )   —  

MOSTech Co., Ltd.

    5,000   —       (972 )   —       158     4,186

Korea Seoul Contact all Co., Ltd.

    228   —       —       —       —       228

Korea Service and Communication Co., Ltd.

    228   —       —       —       —       228

Korea Call Center Co., Ltd.

    228   —       —       —       —       228

TMworld Co., Ltd.

    228   —       —       —       —       228

Ubiquitous Marketing Service and Communication Co., Ltd.

    228   —       —       —       —       228

Olive Nine Entertainment Co., Ltd.

    4,200   (3,367 )   —       —       —       833

Olive Nine Creative Co., Ltd.

    200   49     —       —       —       249

The Contents Entertainment

    1,754   379     —       —       —       2,133

Tourtainment, Inc.

    150   (16 )   —       —       —       134

BEP

    8,000   (21 )   35     —       —       8,014

AGA Company

    156   (156 )   —       —       —       —  

KTF-CJ Music Contents Investment Fund (Centurion Music 1)

    5,000   —       25     —       —       5,025
   

 

 

 

 

 
    (Won) 357,265   (134,767 )   (6,705 )   (2,522 )   (2,115 )   211,156
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

F-31


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(10) Property, Plant and Equipment

 

Changes in property, plant and equipment for the year ended December 31, 2005 were as follows:

 

     Millions

     2005

     Beginning
balance


   Acquisition
cost


   Disposals

   Depreciation

   Others

   

Book value
as of

December 31,
2005


Land

   (Won) 1,167,683    599    1,247    —      24,010     1,191,045

Buildings and structures

     3,341,029    31,477    14,174    148,554    270,288     3,480,066

Machinery and equipment

     10,200,588    119,699    143,462    2,828,909    2,097,695     9,445,611

Vehicles

     24,817    1,848    506    9,294    687     17,552

Tools, furniture and fixtures

     543,221    264,052    20,179    306,800    111,587     591,881

Construction in progress

     444,117    2,453,124    392    —      (2,535,972 )   360,877
    

  
  
  
  

 
     (Won) 15,721,455    2,870,799    179,960    3,293,557    (31,705 )   15,087,032
    

  
  
  
  

 

 

Changes in property, plant and equipment for the year ended December 31, 2006 were as follows:

 

     Millions

     2006

     Beginning
balance


   Acquisition
cost


   Disposals

   Depreciation

   Others

   

Book value
as of

December 31,
2006


Land

   (Won) 1,191,045    304    10,758    —      28,989     1,209,580

Buildings and structures

     3,480,066    1,058    23,883    154,629    189,640     3,492,252

Machinery and equipment

     9,445,611    72,420    102,917    2,768,795    2,907,091     9,553,410

Vehicles

     17,552    2,076    134    6,812    1,148     13,830

Tools, furniture and fixtures

     591,881    118,464    19,722    298,057    114,946     507,512

Construction in progress

     360,877    3,323,375    902    —      (3,291,167 )   392,183
    

  
  
  
  

 
     (Won) 15,087,032    3,517,697    158,316    3,228,293    (49,353 )   15,168,767
    

  
  
  
  

 

 

Property, plant and equipment are insured against fire damage up to an amount of (Won)1,901,458 million and (Won)2,413,186 million as of December 31, 2005 and 2006, respectively. Additionally, the Company maintains insurance policies covering loss and liability arising from automobile accidents.

 

F-32


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(11) Other Assets

 

Other assets as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

     Millions

 
     2005

    2006

 

Frequency usage right (note 12)

   (Won) 1,147,174     1,040,878  

Long-term loans to employees

     307,308     193,120  

Leasehold rights and deposits

     309,599     310,552  

Goodwill

     618,000     488,650  

Negative goodwill

     (1,036 )   (518 )

Other intangible assets

     369,061     430,581  

Long-term accounts receivable—trade

     123,578     147,229  

Long-term accounts receivable—other

     10,284     7,862  

Deferred income tax assets, net (note 26(d))

     79,444     41,739  

Other

     134,763     134,886  
    


 

     (Won) 3,098,175     2,794,979  
    


 

 

(12) Frequency Usage Rights

 

During 2001, KTICOM acquired an IMT-2000 frequency usage right and a license to operate the IMT-2000 business from the MIC for (Won)1,300 billion. KTICOM was merged into KTF on March 6, 2003. KTICOM paid 50%, or (Won)650 billion, of this amount in 2001 and the net present value of the remaining (Won)650 billion unpaid balance is recorded as long-term accounts payable—other in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2005 and 2006. This right has a contractual life of 15 years and is amortized based on the date commercial service was initiated through the end of its contractual life. The Company began amortizing this intangible asset on December 1, 2003.

 

During 2005, the Company acquired Wireless Broadband (“WiBro”) portable internet frequency usage right and a license to operate the WiBro business in the Republic of Korea from the MIC for (Won)125,800 million. The Company recorded the amount as frequency usage rights included in other assets in the accompanying balance sheet as of December 31, 2006. The right has a contractual life of 7 years from the grant date and is being amortized over its remaining contractual life commencing on June 30, 2006 when commercial service was initiated.

 

The net amount of the frequency usage rights as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 is as follows:

 

     Millions

 
     2005

    2006

 

Frequency usage rights

   (Won) 1,342,023     1,342,023  

Less: Accumulated amortization

     (194,849 )   (301,145 )
    


 

     (Won) 1,147,174     1,040,878  
    


 

 

F-33


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Long-term accounts payable—other related to IMT-2000 frequency usage right is stated at the net present value of future cash flows, calculated using KTICOM’s effective interest rate (9.93%) at the time of receipt of the frequency usage right. This payable accrues interest at the three-year Government bond interest rate minus 0.75% (4.07% as of December 31, 2006). The accrued interest is paid on an annual basis to the MIC. The balances as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 were as follows:

 

     Millions

 
     2005

    2006

 

Long-term accounts payable—other

   (Won) 650,000     650,000  

Less: Present value discount

     (90,460 )   (67,007 )
    


 

     (Won) 559,540     582,993  

Less: Current portion, net of discount

     —       (89,116 )
    


 

     (Won) 559,540     493,877  
    


 

 

The maturities of the KTF’s long-term accounts payable—other related to the frequency usage right outstanding as of December 31, 2006 are as follows:

 

Fiscal year ending December 31,


   Millions

2007

   (Won) 90,000

2008

     110,000

2009

     130,000

2010

     150,000

Thereafter

     170,000
    

     (Won) 650,000
    

 

(13) Short-term Borrowings

 

Short-term borrowings as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

    

Interest rate

per annum (%)


  Millions

       2005

   2006

Commercial paper

   4.68~5.20%   (Won) 5,000    90,000

Borrowings from banks

   5.25~7.50%     90,569    73,319

Short-term borrowings in foreign currency

   Libor+0.4~0.6%     17,729    21,375
        

  
         (Won) 113,298    184,694
        

  

 

(14) Other Current Liabilities

 

Other current liabilities as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

     Millions

     2005

   2006

Key money deposits

   (Won) 99,913    107,880

Unearned income

     5,967    5,295

Other

     18,900    18,744
    

  
     (Won) 124,780    131,919
    

  

 

F-34


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(15) Long-term Debt

 

Long-term debt as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 is summarized as follows:

 

    

Interest rate

per annum (%)


  

Maturity date


   Millions

 
           2005

    2006

 

Local currency (Won) debt:

                        

Bonds

   4.22~9.02    2007~2015    (Won) 6,679,916     5,875,583  

Convertible notes of

                        

Olive Nine Co., Ltd.

   3.00    2009      —       4,000  

Borrowings from banks

   2.00~6.40    2007~2026      120,800     120,455  

Information and Telecommunication

                        

Improvement Fund

   4.08~5.50    2007~2010      117,951     68,189  
              


 

                 6,918,667     6,068,227  
              


 

Foreign currency debt:

                        

MTNP notes (USD)

   4.88~7.63    2007~2034      1,114,300     1,208,480  

Yankee bonds (USD)

   7.63    2006~2007      354,550     185,920  

Bonds (USD)

   Libor+0.80    —        151,950     —    

Bonds (JPY)

   3.13    —        40,280     —    

Convertible notes issued in January

                        

2002 (USD)

   0.25    —        14,812     —    

Bank loans (USD)

   Libor+1.23~3.50    2007~2009      8,104     18,990  
              


 

                 1,683,996     1,413,390  
              


 

Total

               8,602,663     7,481,617  

Add: Redemption premium on convertible notes

               —       243  

Less: Current portion, net of discount of (Won)691 million in 2005 and (Won)814 million in 2006

               (1,206,397 )   (1,352,875 )

Discount on bonds

               (35,895 )   (32,056 )
              


 

               (Won) 7,360,371     6,096,929  
              


 

 

In June 2005, the Company updated its Medium Term Note Program (MTNP) from US$1 billion to US$2 billion. As of December 31, 2006, the Company has issued notes in the amount of US$1,300 million with a fixed interest rate under the MTNP. The notes are listed on the Singapore Stock Exchange. As of December 31, 2006, the unused portion of the MTNP amounted to US$700 million.

 

On January 4, 2002, the Company issued convertible notes with an aggregate face amount of US$1,318 million. During 2006, the remaining holders of convertible notes exercised their conversion right and redeemed the outstanding principle amount of (Won)14,812 million (US$11,245 thousand) into 260,531 shares of the Company’s common stock.

 

On February 17, 2006, Olive Nine Co., Ltd issued convertible notes with an aggregate face amount of (Won)4,000 million and maturity date of February 16, 2009. The holders of convertible notes can exercise the conversion right until February 16, 2009 at a per share conversion price of (Won)1,584. If the holders of convertible notes do not exercise their conversion right until the maturity date, they will be provided redemption premium amounting to (Won)927 million which is based on a 10% guaranteed rate of return. Olive Nine Co., Ltd. accrued the redemption premium based on the guaranteed rate of return.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Aggregate principal maturities for the Company’s long-term debt as of December 31, 2006 are as follows:

 

Fiscal year ending December 31,


   Millions

2007

   (Won) 1,353,689

2008

     943,373

2009

     1,018,235

2010

     863,640

2011

     850,433

Thereafter

     2,452,247
    

     (Won) 7,481,617
    

 

(16) Refundable Deposits for Telephone Installation

 

Through September 15, 1998, KT collected deposits for telephone installation in accordance with the Korea Public Telecommunication Business Law. Such deposits (which are reflected as a liability) are to be refunded without interest to the telephone subscribers upon termination of service. For changes in site classifications of telephones that were installed prior to January 1, 1990, KT is obligated to refund the original deposit received plus the increased deposit due to changes in site classifications.

 

Beginning September 15, 1998, KT allowed customers to choose between alternative plans for basic telephone services. Under such plan, customers were permitted the option to either place fully refundable deposits or pay a reduced non-refundable service initiation fee. The non-refundable service installation fees were recorded as operating revenues. Refundable deposits continue to be subject to the same provisions as described above. Effective April 15, 2001, all new customers are required to pay a non-refundable service initiation fee.

 

(17) Accrual for Retirement and Severance Benefits

 

Changes in retirement and severance benefits for each of the three years ended December 31, 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

     Millions

 
     2004

    2005

    2006

 

Estimated benefits accrual at beginning of year

   (Won) 245,878     314,789     380,756  

Provision for retirement and severance benefits

     281,453     302,049     240,843  

Payments

     (93,178 )   (109,931 )   (79,533 )

Withdrawal from the National Pension Fund, net

     204     196     109  

Increase in severance benefits insurance deposit

     (119,568 )   (126,513 )   (151,773 )

Increase due to change of consolidated subsidiaries

     —       166     216  
    


 

 

Net balance at end of year

   (Won) 314,789     380,756     390,618  
    


 

 

 

In 2005, KT Linkus offered a voluntary early retirement plan (“the Plan”) to its employees. Under the terms of the Plan, employees participating in the Plan would receive additional amounts of retirement and severance benefits. As a result, KT Linkus recorded and paid costs of (Won)46,734 million related to this Plan during the year ended December 31, 2005.

 

Through March 1999, under the National Pension Scheme of Korea, the Company transferred a certain portion of retirement allowances of employees to the National Pension Fund. The amount transferred reduces the retirement and severance benefit amount payable to employees when they leave the Company and is accordingly reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as a reduction from retirement and severance benefit

 

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KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

liability. The cumulative balances of such transfers to the National Pension Fund were (Won)329 million and (Won)220 million as of December 31, 2005 and 2006, respectively. However, beginning April 1999, based on a new regulation such transfers to the National Pension Fund are no longer required.

 

(18) Other Long-term Liabilities

 

Other long-term liabilities as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

     Millions

     2005

   2006

Accrual for customer call bonus points

   (Won) 93,462    90,451

Payable under put and call agreement (note 9)

     46,000    46,000

Key money deposits from customers

     29,059    30,586

Advance receipt

     8,165    6,201

Other

     1,814    2,487
    

  
     (Won) 178,500    175,725
    

  

 

The Company recognized (Won)10,961 million and (Won)20,832 million of additional provision for customer call bonus points and (Won)45,841 million and (Won)23,843 million of write-offs due to expiration or usage of points for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

(19) Stockholders’ Equity

 

As of December 31, 2005 and 2006, the Company’s authorized share capital was 1,000,000,000 shares, which consists of shares of common stock, par value of (Won)5,000 per share, and shares of non-voting preferred stock, par value of (Won)5,000 per share. Under the Company’s articles of incorporation, the Company is authorized to issue shares of preferred stock up to one-fourth of the Company’s total issued capital stock. The Company has never issued shares of preferred stock. As of December 31, 2005 and 2006, 284,849,400 shares and 279,627,400 shares of common stock had been issued, of which 71,792,753 shares and 71,532,222 shares were held in the trust fund (Note 22 a) or as treasury shares.

 

The composition of holders of common stock as of December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

     No. of shares

  

Percentage of

total shares issued


 
     2004

   2005

   2006

   2004

    2005

    2006

 

Employee Stock Ownership Associations

   16,173,934    18,270,665    9,630,538    5.68 %   6.42 %   3.45 %

National Pension Corporation

   10,654,638    9,630,538    4,425,582    3.74 %   3.38 %   1.58 %

Others, including private companies

   183,930,410    185,155,444    194,039,058    64.57 %   65.00 %   69.39 %

Treasury stock (see note 22)

   74,090,418    71,792,753    71,532,222    26.01 %   25.20 %   25.58 %
    
  
  
  

 

 

     284,849,400    284,849,400    279,627,400    100.00 %   100.00 %   100.00 %
    
  
  
  

 

 

 

Changes in common stock for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are as follows:

 

     Number of
shares issued


    Millions

Balance at January 1, 2004

   284,849,400     (Won) 1,560,998

Retirement of treasury stock on July 3, 2006

   (5,222,000 )     —  
    

 

Balance at December 31, 2006

   279,627,400     (Won) 1,560,998
    

 

 

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KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

As allowed by the Securities Exchange Law of the Republic of Korea, the Company retired its treasury shares by a charge to retained earnings rather than its common stock. Therefore, common stock is not determined by multiplying the number of shares issued by common stock of (Won)5,000 par value.

 

Changes in stockholders’ equity for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are as follows:

 

    Millions

 
   

Common
stock


 

Capital
surplus


    Retained earnings

   

Capital
adjustments


   

Minority
interest


   

Total


 
        Appropriated

    Unappropriated

       

Balance at January 1, 2004

  (Won) 1,560,998   1,308,612     8,025,854     (342,554 )   (4,005,593 )   1,849,303     8,396,620  

Net earnings

    —     —       —       1,282,216     —       —       1,282,216  

Appropriations of retained earnings

    —     —       (2,593,992 )   2,593,992     —       —       —    

Reacquisition of consolidated subsidiary’s treasury stock

    —     (14,784 )   —       —       —       (135,069 )   (149,853 )

Dividends (note 28)

    —     —       —       (632,276 )   —       —       (632,276 )

Dividends by consolidated subsidiaries

    —     —       —       —       —       (50,037 )   (50,037 )

Increase (decrease) in unrealized gains (losses) on available-for- sale securities

    —     —       —       —       32,596     (1,418 )   31,178  

Increase in unrealized losses on equity securities of affiliates

    —     —       —       —       (4,041 )   (1,281 )   (5,322 )

Stock options

    —     —       —       —       4,941     1,188     6,129  

Changes in translation adjustments of foreign subsidiaries

    —     —       —       —       3,012     (2,814 )   198  

Minority interest in earnings of consolidated subsidiaries

    —     —       —       —       —       148,931     148,931  

Other

    —     (2,211 )   —       —       33     774     (1,404 )
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2004

  (Won) 1,560,998   1,291,617     5,431,862     2,901,378     (3,969,052 )   1,809,577     9,026,380  
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net earnings

    —     —       —       1,085,450     —       —       1,085,450  

Appropriations of retained earnings

    —     —       380,000     (380,000 )   —       —       —    

Reacquisition of consolidated subsidiary’s treasury stock

    —     (822 )   —       —       —       (12,544 )   (13,366 )

Dividends (note 28)

    —     —       —       (632,277 )   —       —       (632,277 )

Dividends by consolidated subsidiaries

    —     —       —       —       —       (50,761 )   (50,761 )

Increase in unrealized gains on available-for- sale securities

    —     —       —       —       1,501     1,757     3,258  

Decrease in unrealized losses on equity securities of affiliates, net of tax

    —     —       —       —       6,955     125     7,080  

Sale of treasury stock

    —     —       —       —       122,083     —       122,083  

Loss on disposal of treasury stock, net of tax

    —     —       —       —       (22,043 )   —       (22,043 )

Changes in translation adjustments of foreign subsidiaries

    —     —       —       —       (3,508 )   (952 )   (4,460 )

Changes in subsidiaries included in consolidation

    —     —       —       —       —       25,938     25,938  

Minority interest in earnings of consolidated subsidiaries

    —     —       —       —       —       274,586     274,586  

Proceeds from issuance of consolidated subsidiary’s common stock (note 20)

    —     61,825     —       —       —       432,486     494,311  

Sale of consolidated subsidiary’s treasury stock (note 20)

    —     33,825     —       —       —       35,630     69,455  

Other

    —     2,777     —       —       (848 )   2,371     4,300  
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2005

  (Won) 1,560,998   1,389,222     5,811,862     2,974,551     (3,864,912 )   2,518,213     10,389,934  
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

    Millions

 
    Common
stock


  Capital
surplus


    Retained earnings

    Capital
adjustments


    Minority
interest


    Total

 
        Appropriated

    Unappropriated

       

Balance at December 31, 2005

  (Won) 1,560,998   1,389,222     5,811,862     2,974,551     (3,864,912 )   2,518,213     10,389,934  

Net earnings

    —     —       —       1,291,863     —       —       1,291,863  

Appropriations of retained earnings

    —     —       (30,000 )   30,000     —       —       —    

Acquisition of additional equity in consolidated subsidiaries

    —     (94,435 )   —       —       —       (269,433 )   (363,868 )

Reacquisition of consolidated subsidiary’s treasury stock

    —     (22,130 )   —       —       —       (142,754 )   (164,884 )

Dividends (note 28)

    —     —       —       (426,113 )   —       —       (426,113 )

Dividends by consolidated subsidiaries

    —     —       —       —       —       (67,814 )   (67,814 )

Decrease in unrealized gains on available-for- sale securities, net of tax

    —     —       —       —       (1,130 )   (796 )   (1,926 )

Decrease in unrealized losses on equity securities of affiliates, net of tax

    —     —       —       —       2,712     55     2,767  

Issuance of treasury stock

    —     652     —       —       13,913     —       14,565  

Appropriation of retained earnings of loss on retirement of treasury stock

    —     —       —       (38,431 )   38,431     —       —    

Retirement of treasury stock

    —     —       —       (213,664 )   —       —       (213,664 )

Changes in translation adjustments of foreign subsidiaries

    —     —       —       —       (10,520 )   389     (10,131 )

Minority interest in earnings of consolidated subsidiaries

    —     —       —       —       —       217,854     217,854  

Sale of consolidated subsidiary’s treasury stock

    —     5,646     —       —       —       2,052     7,698  

Retirement of consolidated subsidiary’s treasury stock

    —     10,848     —       —       —       (10,848 )   —    

Other

    —     —       —       —       689     20,334     21,023  
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2006

  (Won) 1,560,998   1,289,803     5,781,862     3,618,206     (3,820,817 )   2,267,252     10,697,304  
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(20) Capital Surplus

 

Capital surplus as of December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 is summarized as follows:

 

     Millions

 
     2004

    2005

    2006

 

Paid-in capital in excess of par value

   (Won) 1,440,258     1,440,258     1,440,258  

Goodwill of additional equity in consolidated subsidiaries

     (181,649 )   (181,649 )   (276,084 )

Other, net

     33,008     130,613     125,629  
    


 

 

     (Won) 1,291,617     1,389,222     1,289,803  
    


 

 

 

Other, net, mainly consists of the effects of common stock issuance of subsidiaries and retirement of treasury stock in consolidated subsidiaries.

 

In December 2005, KTF and NTT DoCoMo Inc. (“DoCoMo”) entered into a strategic alliance. DoCoMo is a mobile communications company based in Japan. As part of this strategic alliance, DoCoMo acquired a 10% equity interest in KTF through KTF issuing new shares in the amount of (Won)494,311 million plus DoCoMo purchasing KTF treasury shares of (Won)69,455 million. As a result, the Company’s equity ownership interest in

 

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KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

KTF decreased from 48.7% as of December 31, 2004 to 44.6% as of December 31, 2005. Based on the issuance and sale of KTF’s treasury shares to DoCoMo, the Company recorded an unrealized gain of (Won)95,650 million (recorded within capital surplus) for the year ended December 31, 2005 representing the difference between the net asset value of KTF and the issuance price. (see note 23(b))

 

(21) Appropriated Retained Earnings

 

Retained earnings appropriated to various restricted reserves as of December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

     Millions

     2004

   2005

   2006

Involuntary reserve:

                

Legal reserve

   (Won) 780,499    780,499    780,499

Voluntary reserves:

                

Reserve for technology and human resource development

     —      350,000    350,000

Reserve for business rationalization

     443,416    443,416    443,416

Reserve for business expansion

     4,000,000    4,000,000    4,000,000

Reserve for redemption of telephone bonds

     207,947    207,947    207,947

Reserve for social overhead capital

     —      30,000    —  
    

  
  
     (Won) 5,431,862    5,811,862    5,781,862
    

  
  

 

Retained earnings appropriated to the legal reserve are restricted in use as cash dividends under the applicable laws and regulations of the Republic of Korea. The Korean Commercial Code requires the Company to appropriate to a legal reserve an amount equal to at least 10% of the cash dividend amount at the end of each accounting period until the reserve equals 50% of stated capital. The legal reserve may be used to reduce a deficit or may be transferred to stated capital.

 

Under the Special Tax Treatment Control Law, the Company is allowed to appropriate a reserve for technology and human resources development in order to recognize certain tax deductible benefits through early recognition of future expenditures for tax purposes. This reserve will be unappropriated from appropriated retained earnings in accordance with the relevant tax laws. Such amount will be included in taxable income in the year of unappropriation. During 2005, the Company appropriated (Won)350,000 million of retained earnings and transferred the amount to reserves for technology and human resources development.

 

Through 2001, under the Special Tax Treatment Control Law, investment tax credits were allowed for certain investments. However, the Company was required to transfer from retained earnings the amount of tax benefits obtained into a reserve for business rationalization. Effective December 11, 2002, the Company is no longer required to establish a reserve for business rationalization despite tax benefits received for certain investments, and consequently the existing balance is now regarded as a voluntary reserve.

 

The Company is allowed to appropriate from retained earnings amounts necessary to establish reserves for business expansion, research and development, redemption of telephone bonds and for social overhead capital at its own discretion, each of which are regarded as a voluntary reserve.

 

The Company appropriated reserve for loss on retirement of treasury stock of (Won)38,431 million, which was approved at the shareholders’ meeting held on March 10, 2006. The appropriation fully offset previous losses incurred on retirement of treasury stock.

 

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KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(22) Treasury Stock

 

(a) Trust fund

 

During 2000, in order to stabilize the price of the Company’s common stock in the market, the Company established a treasury stock fund of (Won)100 billion. This trust fund is managed by a bank, which is used primarily as a vehicle for trading the common stock of the Company. The trust fund (which is recorded at cost) held 1,259,170 shares of treasury stock as of December 31, 2005 and 2006.

 

(b) Issuance to the convertible notes holders

 

During 2005 and 2006, certain holders of convertible notes (as described in note 16), which were issued on May 25, 2002, converted their notes into shares of the Company’s common stock. As part of this transaction, 85 shares and 260,531 shares of treasury stock were issued to the note holders for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

(c) Contribution to Employee Stock Ownership Association

 

On August 26, 2005, the Company contributed 2,297,580 shares of treasury stock to the KT employee stock ownership association (“ESOA”). The difference between carrying value of the treasury stock and its fair value amounting to (Won)30,405 million was recorded as a loss on disposal of treasury stock and the fair value of (Won)91,673 million was recorded as employee benefits for the year ended December 31, 2005.

 

(d) Retirement of treasury stock

 

The Company purchased and retired 5,222,000 shares of treasury stock by a charge to retained earnings on July 3, 2006. Upon retirement of the treasury stock, the number of shares of the Company’s common stock issued decreased from 284,849,400 shares to 279,627,400 shares.

 

(e) Changes in treasury stock

 

Changes in treasury stock for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006 are as follows:

 

     2005

    2006

 
     Number of
shares


    Millions

    Number of
shares


    Millions

 

Balance at beginning of year

   74,090,418     (Won) 3,962,568     71,792,753     (Won) 3,840,485  

Issuance to convertible note holders

   (85 )     (5 )   (260,531 )     (13,913 )

Contribution to the KT ESOA

   (2,297,580 )     (122,078 )   —         —    

Purchase of treasury shares

   —         —       5,222,000       213,664  

Retirement of treasury shares

   —         —       (5,222,000 )     (213,664 )
    

 


 

 


Balance at end of year

   71,792,753     (Won) 3,840,485     71,532,222     (Won) 3,826,572  
    

 


 

 


 

Realized gain or loss on sale of treasury stock is recorded as capital surplus or capital adjustment, respectively.

 

(23) Commitments and Contingencies

 

(a) Legal and regulatory matters

 

During 2001, the Korean Fair Trade Commission (“FTC”) imposed a fine of (Won)30,700 million against the Company for allegedly assisting its affiliates by paying them unreasonably high service fees in violation of the

 

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KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

fair trade laws. The Company recognized an expense of (Won)30,700 million for this claim during 2001. The Company appealed this fine. In October 2004, the Seoul High Court partially reversed the FTC’s decision and decreased the fine from (Won)30,700 million to (Won)2,400 million. During 2005, the Company and the FTC appealed this decision to the Supreme Court of Korea. As of December 31, 2005 and 2006, due to the ongoing appeal, the ruling by the Seoul High Court is not reflected and the Company has not decreased the original assessment in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

 

In the second half of 2004, the FTC began a separate antitrust investigation of the Company into alleged unfair collaborative practices of fixed-line telephone and broadband internet service providers during the period from 2002 to 2004. On May 25, 2005, the FTC imposed a fine of (Won)116,021 million to the Company related to local telephone services and leased line services for Internet cafes. On September 14, 2005, the FTC imposed an additional fine of (Won)23,870 million related to domestic and international long-distance services. Although the Company appealed the FTC’s decision related to the above services to the Seoul High Court, the Company recognized these fines as taxes and dues within operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2005. The Company fines have been paid as of December 31, 2006.

 

From June 2000 to March 2006, the Government prohibited wireless service providers from providing subsidies to subscribers for purchase of handsets. During this period, MIC imposed fines on KTF and KT deemed to be in violation of such prohibition. KT and KTF recognized these fines of (Won)14,818 million, (Won)18,483 million and (Won)27,693 million as taxes and dues within operating expenses for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

The Company is also in litigation as a defendant in other cases for damages allegedly resulting from various claims, disputes and legal actions in the normal course of operations. These claims amounted to (Won)31,527 million as of December 31, 2006. The Company accrued (Won)4,991 million as contingent liabilities related to the claims as of December 31, 2006 included in other expenses. Management believes that the ultimate settlement of these matters, and the matter described in the previous paragraph, will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

(b) Shareholders’ agreement between KT and DoCoMo

 

As part of the strategic alliance with DoCoMo (see note 20), on December 26, 2005, the Company and DoCoMo entered into a shareholders’ agreement related to shares of KTF. Under the shareholders’ agreement, DoCoMo has the right to put its shares to the Company if an agreed target network coverage within Korea is not met by December 31, 2008. If the put-option is exercised by DoCoMo, the Company will be required to purchase all of the KTF shares held by DoCoMo at DoCoMo’s acquisition price plus accrued interest by February 15, 2009.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(c) Derivatives contracts

 

For the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006, the Company entered into various derivative contracts with various financial institutions. Details of these derivative contracts were as follows:

 

Type of transaction


  

Financial institution


  

Description


Interest rate swaps

   JP Morgan and others   

Exchange fixed interest rate for variable interest rate for a specified period

Currency swaps

   JP Morgan and others   

Exchange foreign currency cash flow for domestic currency cash flow for a specified period

Currency interest rate swaps

  

Merrill Lynch and others
  

Exchange foreign currency fixed (variable) interest rate for domestic currency variable (fixed) interest rate for a specified period. At maturity, the Company receives foreign currency principal and pays domestic currency principal.

Interest rate swaption

   Citibank   

An option by the counterparty to receive fixed interest amounts and pay variable interest amounts after a specified period

Currency forwards

   Shinhan Bank and others   

Exchange a specified currency at the agreed exchange rate at a specified date

Currency option

   Shinhan Bank   

Right to sell or buy a specified currency at the agreed exchange rate during a specified period of time

Currency futures

   Tong Yang Futures   

Standardized agreement to exchange a specified currency at the agreed exchange rate at a stipulated future date

 

All of these contracts are hedging derivative instruments recorded as trading securities with related gains and losses recorded in the current period as they do not qualify for hedge accounting.

 

The assets and liabilities recorded relating to the outstanding contracts as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 were as follows:

 

     Won in millions, USD in thousands, Yen in thousands

     2005

   2006

Transaction type


  

Contract

amount


   Fair value

  

Contract

amount


   Fair value

      Assets

   Liabilities

      Assets

   Liabilities

Interest swap

   (Won) 631,240    (Won) 9,055    15,165    (Won) 820,540    (Won) 9,290    6,850
     $ 350,000                $ 200,000            

Currency swap

   $ 170,000      3,163    30,767    $ 30,525      —      1,692

Currency interest

                      (Won) 15,000            

rate swap

   $ 700,000      946    81,971    $ 715,429      —      161,437

Currency option

   ¥ 2,000,000      —      3,696    $ —        —      —  
    

  

  
  

  

  

Total

   (Won) 631,240                (Won) 835,540            
     ¥ 2,000,000                               
     $ 1,220,000    (Won) 13,164    131,599    $ 945,954    (Won) 9,290    169,979
    

  

  
  

  

  

 

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KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

The gains and losses on the derivatives contracts for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006 were as follows:

 

    Millions

    2005

  2006

Transaction type


  Valuation
gain


  Valuation
loss


  Transaction
gain


  Transaction
loss


  Valuation
gain


  Valuation
loss


  Transaction
gain


  Transaction
loss


Interest rate swap

  (Won) 6,953   7,888   —     —     (Won) 8,654   1,435   7,630   8,974

Interest rate swaption

    —     —     —     353     —     —     —     —  

Currency swap

    4,341   —     186   —       —     4,855   13   8,259

Currency Interest rate swap

    21,595   5,873   —     11,481     —     80,412   959   6,665

Currency forwards

    —     —     120   5,721     —     —     —     —  

Currency futures

    —     —     —     88     —     13   128   —  

Currency option

    —     2,340   —     9,183     —     —     —     1,415
   

 
 
 
 

 
 
 

Total

  (Won) 32,889   16,101   306   26,826   (Won) 8,654   86,715   8,730   25,313
   

 
 
 
 

 
 
 

 

(d) Credit facilities

 

The Company has entered into bank overdraft agreements with 3 banks for borrowings up to (Won)978,000 million, commercial paper issuance agreements with 3 banks for borrowings up to (Won)300,000 million, bill discounting agreements with Hana Bank up to (Won)10,000 million and collateral loan agreements on accounts receivable with 4 banks for borrowings up to (Won)800,000 million. As of December 31, 2006, no amounts were outstanding under these facilities. In addition, the Company has received letters of credit up to US$26 million with 3 banks and a collection agreement for foreign currency denominated checks up to US$1 million with Korea Exchange Bank.

 

(e) Guarantees provided by third parties

 

As of December 31, 2006, three financial institutions were providing guarantees for the Company covering contract biddings up to US$2,537 thousand, SAR (Saudi Arabia Riyal) 735 thousand and (Won)130,795 million. Also, Kookmin Bank were providing guarantees for KT covering the corporate tax payment up to (Won)128,072 million. KT paid corporate tax on January 2, 2007, and as a result, the guarantees provided by Kookmin Bank lapsed as of January 2, 2007.

 

(f) Guarantees provided to third parties

 

As of December 31, 2006, KTP, KTH and Olive Nine Co., Ltd. were providing guarantees amounting to (Won)1,608 million for repayment of certain loans in connection with employee stock ownership plans and operating leases.

 

(g) Disposal of KTF trade accounts and notes receivable

 

On November 4, 2003, KTF established a PCS service installment receivables transfer program. Under this program, KTF sold receivables on a monthly basis and received cash and beneficiary certificates. The amount of beneficiary certificates changes depending on the amount of disposals. KTF recognized a loss on disposal of trade accounts and notes receivable of (Won)11,862 million and (Won)10,881 million for the years ended December 31,

 

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KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

2005 and 2006, respectively. As of December 31, 2005, the uncollected trade receivables under this program were (Won)355,969 million. On December 21, 2006, KTF early terminated the program. As a result, KTF reacquired the receivables transferred and paid cash amounting to (Won)200,000 million and transferred the beneficiary certificates related to this program (see note 8(d)).

 

(h) Leases

 

(i) Operating leases

 

The Company maintains operating lease agreements for certain machinery and equipment with Macquarie IT Korea Lease Company and others. Annual future lease payments under the operating leases as of December 31, 2006 are as follows:

 

Year ended December 31,


   Millions

2007

   (Won) 6,361

2008

     5,537

2009

     5,267

2010

     5,267

2011

     5,267

Thereafter

     7,903
    

     (Won) 35,602
    

 

Operating lease expenses for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 amounted to (Won)89,549 million, (Won)67,600 million and (Won)45,435 million, respectively.

 

As of December 31, 2006, the Company has office rent agreements under annual renewal options with various property owners.

 

(ii) Capital leases

 

As of December 31, 2006, the Company had capital lease agreements with GE Capital Korea Ltd. and others for certain machinery and equipment, for which the acquisition cost amounted to (Won)77,967 million. Depreciation expense on the leased machinery and equipment for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006 amounted to (Won)11,191 million and (Won)17,479 million, respectively. Annual future minimum payments under the lease agreements (recorded primarily within other long-term liabilities) as of December 31, 2006 were as follows:

 

Fiscal period ending December 31,


   Millions

 

2007

   (Won) 15,888  

2008

     15,715  

2009

     13,055  

2010

     8,096  

2011

     3,806  

Thereafter

     —    
    


       56,560  

Less: amount representing interest

     (4,004 )
    


     (Won) 52,556  
    


 

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Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(i) Obligation of Contribution to the institute of Information Technology Assessment

 

Under the Telecommunications Basic Law, network service providers and specific service providers are obligated to contribute 0.75% and 0.5% of their total annual revenues, respectively, to the Institute of Information Technology Assessment, which uses the fund (Information and Telecommunication Improvement Funds) to promote research and development in information technology. For the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, the Company made contributions of (Won)64,468 million, (Won)56,237 million and (Won)64,849 million, respectively, to the Institute of Information Technology Assessment.

 

(24) Operating Revenues

 

Operating revenues for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are as follows:

 

     Millions

     2004

   2005

   2006

Internet services

                

Broadband Internet access service

   (Won) 2,135,200    2,204,134    2,149,424

Miscellaneous Internet-related services

     471,652    557,434    568,012
    

  
  
       2,606,852    2,761,568    2,717,436
    

  
  

Telephone services

                

Local service

     2,975,089    2,917,942    2,883,452

Non-refundable service installation fees

     79,299    70,252    48,376

Domestic long-distance service

     854,137    765,900    700,170

International long-distance service

     419,816    406,787    382,850

Land-to-mobile interconnection

     1,860,949    1,715,352    1,765,182
    

  
  
       6,189,290    5,876,233    5,780,030
    

  
  

PCS services

     4,799,586    5,226,993    5,495,647

Sales of PCS handsets

     1,754,968    1,510,763    1,888,978

Data communication services

     962,627    944,751    903,163

Satellite services

     119,412    114,460    109,583

Other

     635,636    720,926    861,319
    

  
  
     (Won) 17,068,371    17,155,694    17,756,156
    

  
  

 

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Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(25) Operating Expenses

 

Operating expenses for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are as follows:

 

     Millions

     2004

   2005

   2006

Operating expenses :

                

Salaries and wages

   (Won) 1,945,714    2,146,289    2,224,611

Compensation expense (note 30)

     6,129    1,072    531

Provision for retirement and severance benefits

     281,453    302,049    240,843

Employee benefits (note 22(c))

     503,857    596,167    527,063

Communications

     56,613    75,992    65,827

Utilities

     194,350    205,378    227,264

Taxes and dues (note 23 (a))

     141,623    294,932    197,203

Rent

     269,667    245,656    219,825

Depreciation

     3,335,584    3,228,261    3,185,206

Amortization

     384,387    328,909    371,616

Repairs and maintenance

     488,407    615,708    705,019

Automobile maintenance

     26,348    29,774    29,307

Commissions

     1,061,726    984,106    1,042,398

Commissions to sales agent

     940,039    1,025,843    1,348,156

Advertising

     294,262    266,346    232,202

Education and training

     50,372    45,727    39,093

Research and development

     265,207    267,458    216,896

Travel

     37,342    50,168    42,060

Supplies

     38,809    51,876    37,199

Interconnection charges

     973,429    1,060,681    1,177,896

Cost of goods sold

     1,782,140    1,460,749    1,682,009

Cost of services (commissions for system integration service and other miscellaneous services)

     420,149    489,105    606,440

International line usage

     194,143    192,852    203,339

Promotion

     537,927    548,272    561,186

Provision for doubtful accounts

     287,073    120,048    111,285

Other

     119,172    142,501    136,177
    

  
  
       14,635,922    14,775,919    15,430,651

Less: amounts included in construction in progress

     48,083    50,836    53,731
    

  
  
     (Won) 14,587,839    14,725,083    15,376,920
    

  
  

 

In 2005, KT Linkus offered a voluntary early retirement plan (“the Plan”) to its employees. Under the terms of the Plan, employees participating in the Plan would receive additional amounts of retirement and severance benefits. As a result, KT Linkus recorded and paid costs of (Won)46,734 million related to the Plan for the year ended December 31, 2005.

 

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KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

The components of operating expenses for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are as follows:

 

     Millions

     2004

   2005

   2006

Cost of services

   (Won) 12,063,054    12,286,489    12,601,454

Selling, general and administrative expenses

     2,524,785    2,438,594    2,775,466
    

  
  

Operating expenses

   (Won) 14,587,839    14,725,083    15,376,920
    

  
  

 

(26) Income Taxes

 

(a) The Company is subject to a number of income taxes based upon taxable income which results in the following normal tax rates (including resident tax):

 

Taxable earnings


   Normal tax rates

 

Up to (Won)100 million

   14.3 %

Over (Won)100 million

   27.5 %

 

The components of income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are as follows:

 

     Millions

     2004

   2005

    2006

Current income tax expense

   (Won) 470,925    404,306     456,207

Deferred income tax expense (benefit)

     106,964    (17,026 )   33,839
    

  

 

Income taxes

   (Won) 577,889    387,280     490,046
    

  

 

 

The preceding table does not reflect the tax effects of unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities and unrealized gains on equity securities of affiliates. The tax effect of nil, (Won)3,946 million and (Won)1,269 million for the years ending December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 is recorded directly in capital adjustments within stockholders’ equity.

 

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Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(b) The change for income taxes calculated using statutory tax rates differs from the change in the income statement for years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 for the following reasons:

 

     Millions

 
     2004

    2005

    2006

 

Provision for income taxes at normal tax rate

   (Won) 596,684     480,512     549,935  

Investment tax credits

     (206,344 )   (237,974 )   (160,876 )

Write-off of deferred tax asset(*)

     174,338     56,667     25,601  

Decrease in deferred income tax liabilities of equity in gains of affiliates(**)

     —       (22,534 )   (683 )

Tax effect of permanent differences:

                    

Non-deductible fines

     —       41,241     7,452  

Other permanent differences, net

     39,024     78,408     72,445  

Utilization of loss carryforwards

     (32,628 )   (12,370 )   —    

Tax effect of prior year’s additional income tax payment (refund)

     280     3,330     (3,828 )

Effect of tax rate change

     6,535     —       —    
    


 

 

Income taxes for the year

   (Won) 577,889     387,280     490,046  
    


 

 


(*) For the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, the Company concluded that it was not probable that it would be able to realize the tax benefits of its equity in losses of affiliates within the near future which is construed usually to mean 5 years and recognized an impairment on the related deferred tax asset.

 

(**) The Company did not recognize deferred income tax liabilities related to equity in earnings of affiliates in which the Company has controlling interests as of December 31, 2005 and 2006, since it is able to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

 

The effective tax rates, after adjustments for certain differences between amounts reported for financial accounting and income tax purposes, were approximately 28.8%, 22.2% and 24.5% for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

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KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(c) The tax effects of temporary differences that result in significant portions of deferred income tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are presented below:

 

     Millions

 
     2005

    2006

 

Deferred income tax assets:

              

Allowance for doubtful accounts

   (Won) 142,724     121,672  

Refundable deposits for telephone installation

     16,215     15,634  

Equity in losses of affiliates

     410,401     381,738  

Available-for-sale securities

     6,722     4,139  

Held-to-maturity securities

     17,580     —    

Derivatives

     32,927     43,715  

Contributions received for capital expenditures

     40,658     48,511  

Tax credit carryforwards

     104,259     68,285  

Loss carryforwards

     20,088     19,289  

Other, net

     102,848     133,025  
    


 

Total deferred income tax assets

     894,422     836,008  
    


 

Allowance

     (356,351 )   (389,625 )
    


 

Net deferred income tax assets

     538,071     446,383  
    


 

Deferred income tax liabilities:

              

Accumulated depreciation

     37,440     27,110  

Reserve for technology and human resource development

     88,000     88,000  

Accrued interest income

     380     1,458  

Equity in gains of affiliates

     29,120     23,959  
    


 

Total deferred income tax liabilities

     154,940     140,527  
    


 

Deferred income tax asset, net

   (Won) 383,131     305,856  
    


 

 

During 2006, the Company realized (Won)40,759 million of deferred tax assets recorded in prior periods due to adjustments made during the review of its corporate income tax return by the tax authority and favorable rulings of the Company’s tax appeals by the tax court. The amount was excluded from current and deferred income tax expense with a net zero effect on current year tax expense.

 

In 2006, the Company was eligible for investment tax credits of (Won)160,876 million. However, due to the minimum tax provisions, the Company utilized (Won)92,591 million out of the total of (Won)160,876 million. The remaining tax credit will expire in 2011. During 2006, the Company concluded that the remaining tax credit was probable of realization in the future based on future taxable income estimates. As a result, the Company recorded an income tax benefit of (Won)68,285 million. The loss carryforwards of (Won)70,142 million as of December 31, 2006 will expire in 2010. During 2006, the Company concluded that the loss carryforwards were probable of realization in the future based on future taxable income estimates.

 

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KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(d) Under SKAS No. 16, the deferred tax amounts should be presented as net current assets or liabilities and net non-current assets or liabilities. As of December 31, 2006, details of classification of deferred tax assets (liabilities) are as follows:

 

     Temporary
differences at
December 31,
2006


   Deferred tax assets
(liabilities)


 
      Current

    Non-
current


 

Assets:

                   

Allowance for doubtful accounts

   (Won) 449,859    121,672     —    

Refundable deposits for telephone installation

     56,851    —       15,634  

Available-for-sale securities

     18,942    —       4,139  

Equity securities of affiliates

     1,388,131    —       995  

Derivatives

     158,963    43,715     —    

Contribution received for capital expenditures

     176,405    —       48,511  

Tax credit carryforwards

     —      40,114     28,171  

Loss carryforwards

     70,142    —       19,289  

Accrual for retirement and severance benefits

     25,727    —       7,010  

Other, net

     445,399    89,397     27,736  
    

  

 

       2,790,419    294,898     151,485  
    

  

 

Liabilities:

                   

Equity securities of affiliates

     168,397    —       (23,959 )

Accumulated depreciation

     97,287    —       (27,110 )

Reserve for technology and human resources development

     320,000    (29,333 )   (58,667 )

Accrued interest income

     5,302    (1,448 )   (10 )
    

  

 

       590,986    (30,781 )   (109,746 )
    

  

 

Net deferred tax assets

   (Won) 2,199,433    264,117     41,739  
    

  

 

 

(27) Earnings Per Share

 

Earnings per share of common stock for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are calculated as follows:

 

(a) Basic earnings per share

 

     Millions

    

(except number of shares

and earnings per share)


     2004

   2005

   2006

Net earnings

   (Won) 1,282,216    1,085,450    1,291,863

Weighted-average number of shares of common stock (in thousands)

     210,759    211,565    209,895
    

  
  

Basic earnings per share (in Won)

   (Won) 6,084    5,131    6,155
    

  
  

 

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KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(b) Diluted earnings per share

 

     Millions

    

(except number of shares

and earnings per share)


     2004

   2005

   2006

Net earnings

   (Won) 1,282,216    1,085,450    1,291,863

Adjustments:

                

Interest expense on convertible notes

     46,662    52    52
    

  
  

Net earnings available for common and common equivalent shares

     1,328,878    1,085,502    1,291,915

Weighted-average number of common and common equivalent shares (in thousands)

     233,270    211,822    210,150
    

  
  

Diluted earnings per share (in Won)

   (Won) 5,697    5,125    6,148
    

  
  

 

Diluted earnings per share are calculated based on the effect of potentially dilutive securities that were outstanding during the year. The denominator for the diluted earnings per share computation is adjusted to include the number of additional common shares that would have been outstanding if the potentially dilutive securities had been converted into common stock. In addition, the numerator is adjusted to include the after-tax amount of interest recognized associated with convertible notes.

 

Potentially dilutive securities as of December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are as follows:

 

     No. of potentially dilutive shares

         2004    

       2005    

       2006    

     (thousands)

Convertible notes (note 15)

   22,511    257    —  

Stock options (note 30)

   512    425    418
    
  
  
     23,023    682    418
    
  
  

 

Stock options were not considered in the determination of diluted earnings per share in 2004, 2005 or 2006 because the exercise price of the stock option was greater than the average market price of the common shares and therefore, the effect would have been antidilutive.

 

(28) Dividends

 

(a) For the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, the Company paid interim dividend as follows:

 

     Rate

  

For the year ended

December 31,


     2004

    2005

    2006

   2004

   2005

   2006

                      (millions)

Interim dividends paid

   20.0 %   20.0 %   —      (Won) 210,759    210,759    —  

 

(b) Dividends are generally proposed based on each year’s earnings and are declared, recorded and paid in the subsequent year. Dividends relating to each of the following year’s earnings based upon the par value of common stock are as follows:

 

     Rate

   

For the year ended

December 31,


     2004

    2005

    2006

    2004

   2005

   2006

                       (millions)

Annual dividends proposed

   40.0 %   40.0 %   40.0 %   (Won) 421,518    426,113    416,190

 

The proposed annual dividend of (Won)416,190 million was not recorded in the 2006 consolidated financial statements. Such dividend will be recorded upon the approval by the shareholders in 2007.

 

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KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(29) Accounting Change

 

Effective January 1, 2006, the Company early adopted the Application of Korea Accounting Standard (“AKAS”) 06-2 “Deferred Tax Accounting for Investments in Subsidiaries, Affiliated Companies Accounted for Using the Equity Method, and Interest in Joint Ventures”. AKAS 06-2 requires evaluation of tax benefit, if any, based on the net deferred tax asset or liability of all temporary differences arising from the same affiliate rather than on an individual basis. With the adoption of AKAS 06-2, certain accounts of prior year’s consolidated financial statements have been restated as required by this standard. Earnings before income taxes of the prior three years before and after the retroactive adoption of AKAS 06-2 are as follows.

 

     Millions

     2003

   2004

   2005

     Before

   After

   Before

   After

   Before

   After

Income taxes

   (Won) 523,631    523,631    577,889    577,889    420,788    387,280

Earnings before income taxes

     1,581,060    1,581,060    2,009,036    2,009,036    1,747,316    1,747,316

Net earnings

     821,734    821,734    1,282,216    1,282,216    1,051,942    1,085,450

Basic earnings per shares of common stock in Won

     3,802    3,802    6,084    6,084    4,972    5,131

 

Effective January 1, 2005, the Company changed the estimated useful life used to compute depreciation on modems, a component of machinery and equipments, from six years to three years. The newly estimated useful life reflects technological advances such as the replacement cycle of modems. As a result of this change in estimate, which is accounted for prospectively, depreciation expense for the year ended December 31, 2005 increased by (Won)58,545 million, as compared to the amount which would have been reported using the previous useful life.

 

(30) Stock Options

 

KT granted stock options to its executive officers and directors in accordance with the stock option plan approved by the Board of Directors. The details of the stock options granted are as follows:

 

    1st Grant

  2nd Grant

  4th Grant

Grant date

  2002.12.26   2003. 9.16   2005. 2. 4

Exercise price (in Won)

  70,000   57,000   54,600

Number of shares to be issued as of December 31, 2006

  371,632   3,000   43,153

Exercise period

  2004.12.27 ~ 2009.12.26   2005.9.17 ~ 2010.9.16   2007. 2. 5 ~ 2012. 2. 4

(*) All of these stock options have been forfeited

 

As of December 31, 2006, the stock option grants consisted of 417,785 shares of common stock, including 74,370 shares subject to performance conditions. KT adopted the fair value method (Black-Scholes model) for measuring compensation costs which are amortized to expense over the option vesting periods. The valuation assumptions of stock options based on the fair value method under the Black-Scholes model are as follows:

 

    1st Grant

  2nd Grant

  4th Grant

Risk free interest rate

  5.46%   4.45%   4.43%

Expected option life

  4.5 years to 5.5 years   4.5 years   4.5 years to 5.5 years

Expected volatility

  49.07% ~ 49.90%   34.49%   33.41% ~ 42.13%

Expected dividend yield ratio

  1.10%   1.57%   5.86%

Fair value per option (in Won)

  (Won)22,364   (Won)12,443   (Won)12,322

Total compensation cost (in millions)

  (Won)8,311   (Won)38   (Won)532

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

KT recognized a compensation benefit of (Won)571 million and a compensation cost of (Won)227 million for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

In addition, KTF, a subsidiary of KT, granted stock options to its officers on March 29, 2001, March 25, 2002, September 8, 2003 and March 4, 2005. KTF also uses the fair value based method for the calculation of compensation cost which is amortized to expense over the vesting period. KTF recognized (Won)5,265 million (accumulated) as capital adjustments as of December 31, 2006 and recognized stock option expense of (Won)1,072 million and (Won)304 million for the year ended December 31, 2005 and 2006, respectively. As of December 31, 2006, the amount recognized as a capital adjustment related to these stock options was (Won)2,672 million (net of minority interest).

 

(31) Segment Information

 

The Company has two reportable operating segments—wireline communications and PCS services (including IMT-2000 services). Wireline communications include all services provided to fixed line customers, including internet services, data communication services, wire and other facilities, leased line services and telephone services. PCS services provide both PCS services and IMT-2000 services through the merger between two separate legal entities, KTF and KTICOM during 2003. PCS service is a digital wireless telephone system that uses light handsets with a long battery life to communicate via low-power antennas. PCS telephones have the capacity to receive and send data as well as voice transmission. IMT-2000 service is a third-generation, high-capacity wireless communication system that enables subscribers to utilize a full range of mobile multi-media services including video phone and wireless data transmission. The operations of all other entities which fall below the reporting thresholds are included in the “Miscellaneous” segment below, and include entities providing, among others, submarine cable construction and group telephone management.

 

The Company’s reportable segments consist of separate legal entities that offer different products and services and/or serve different customers. No single customer accounted for revenues in excess of 10% of total revenues. The entities are managed differently since they utilize different technology and marketing strategies and have different capital requirements. Management primarily evaluates the performance of the segments based on operating income (loss).

 

The Company accounts for intersegment revenues and costs as if the related transactions were with third parties. The adjustments included in the “Reconciling Adjustments” line item “Other income (expense), net” include minority interest in earnings of consolidated subsidiaries of (Won)148,931 million, (Won)274,586 million and (Won)217,854 million for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively, and elimination of the parent company’s equity in net earnings of KTF and other subsidiaries of (Won)91,880 million, (Won)269,030 million and (Won)204,589 million for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively. Reconciling adjustments also include reclassification of amortization of goodwill between the line items “Other income (expense), net” and “Operating expenses—depreciation and amortization” in the amount of (Won)212,210 million, (Won)130,113 million and (Won)133,988 million for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively. Additionally, reconciling adjustments include intersegment eliminations in all line items.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

The following table provides information for each operating segment as of for year ended December 31, 2004:

 

     2004 (millions)

 
     Wireline
Communications


    PCS
Services


    Miscellaneous

    Reconciling
Adjustments


    Consolidated

 

Operating revenues:

                                

External customers

   (Won) 11,315,054     5,206,380     546,937     —       17,068,371  

Intersegment

     535,765     634,890     724,857     (1,895,512 )   —    
    


 

 

 

 

       11,850,819     5,841,270     1,271,794     (1,895,512 )   17,068,371  

Operating expenses:

                                

Depreciation and amortization

     2,361,257     1,090,645     135,583     210,003     3,797,488  

Other

     7,362,443     4,211,186     1,136,658     (1,919,936 )   10,790,351  
    


 

 

 

 

       9,723,700     5,301,831     1,272,241     (1,709,933 )   14,587,839  

Operating income (loss)

     2,127,119     539,439     (447 )   (185,579 )   2,480,532  

Interest income

     102,398     12,691     21,056     (19,420 )   116,725  

Interest expense

     (450,740 )   (220,606 )   (26,588 )   19,420     (678,514 )

Other income (expenses), net

     20,748     (22,914 )   (27,902 )   (28,570 )   (58,638 )
    


 

 

 

 

Earnings (loss) before income taxes

     1,799,525     308,610     (33,881 )   (214,149 )   1,860,105  

Income taxes

     544,003     24,709     9,209     (32 )   577,889  
    


 

 

 

 

Net earnings (loss)

   (Won) 1,255,522     283,901     (43,090 )   (214,117 )   1,282,216  
    


 

 

 

 

Total assets

   (Won) 20,114,036     7,960,430     1,285,758     (2,886,992 )   26,473,232  
    


 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

   (Won) 1,818,507     945,623     210,482     (3,236 )   2,971,376  
    


 

 

 

 

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

The following table provides information for each operating segment as of and for year ended December 31, 2005:

 

     2005 (millions)

 
     Wireline
Communications


    PCS
Services


    Miscellaneous

    Reconciling
Adjustments


    Consolidated

 

Operating revenues:

                                

External customers

   (Won) 11,295,069     5,287,274     573,351     —       17,155,694  

Intersegment

     582,203     773,739     775,763     (2,131,705 )   —    
    


 

 

 

 

       11,877,272     6,061,013     1,349,114     (2,131,705 )   17,155,694  

Operating expenses:

                                

Depreciation and amortization

     2,174,138     1,138,159     160,318     84,555     3,557,170  

Other

     8,043,251     4,088,834     1,176,435     (2,140,607 )   11,167,913  
    


 

 

 

 

       10,217,389     5,226,993     1,336,753     (2,056,052 )   14,725,083  

Operating income (loss)

     1,659,883     834,020     12,361     (75,653 )   2,430,611  

Interest income

     77,983     10,058     17,693     (17,879 )   87,855  

Interest expense

     (417,803 )   (184,695 )   (31,921 )   17,879     (616,540 )

Other income (expenses), net

     39,105     (48,730 )   (4,532 )   (415,039 )   (429,196 )
    


 

 

 

 

Earnings (loss) before income taxes

     1,359,168     610,653     (6,399 )   (490,692 )   1,472,730  

Income taxes

     327,357     63,650     (3,012 )   (715 )   387,280  
    


 

 

 

 

Net earnings (loss)

   (Won) 1,031,811     547,003     (3,387 )   (489,977 )   1,085,450  
    


 

 

 

 

Total assets

   (Won) 17,936,509     8,200,171     1,589,037     (3,047,352 )   24,678,365  
    


 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

   (Won) 2,025,230     712,704     253,107     (120,242 )   2,870,799  
    


 

 

 

 

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

The following table provides information for each operating segment as of and for the year ended December 31, 2006:

 

     2006 (millions)

 
     Wireline
Communications


    PCS
Service


    Miscellaneous

    Reconciling
Adjustments


    Consolidated

 

Operating revenues:

                                

External customers

   (Won) 11,280,630     5,787,966     687,560     —       17,756,156  

Intersegment

     491,440     719,384     756,212     (1,967,036 )   —    
    


 

 

 

 

       11,772,070     6,507,350     1,443,772     (1,967,036 )   17,756,156  

Operating expenses:

                                

Depreciation and amortization

     2,120,575     1,134,991     187,685     113,571     3,556,822  

Other

     7,914,356     4,703,612     1,201,813     (1,999,683 )   11,820,098  
    


 

 

 

 

       10,034,931     5,838,603     1,389,498     (1,886,112 )   15,376,920  

Operating income (loss)

     1,737,139     668,747     54,274     (80,924 )   2,379,236  

Interest income

     75,424     26,352     18,640     (8,128 )   112,288  

Interest expense

     (330,244 )   (142,189 )   (38,939 )   8,128     (503,244 )

Other income (expenses), net

     118,593     (39,140 )   (2,407 )   (283,417 )   (206,371 )
    


 

 

 

 

Earnings (loss) before income taxes

     1,600,912     513,770     31,568     (364,341 )   1,781,909  

Income taxes

     367,463     102,068     20,827     (312 )   490,046  
    


 

 

 

 

Net earnings (loss)

   (Won) 1,233,449     411,702     10,741     (364,029 )   1,291,863  
    


 

 

 

 

Total assets

   (Won) 17,962,333     8,068,028     1,648,946     (3,457,271 )   24,222,036  
    


 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

   (Won) 2,173,990     1,217,965     125,742     —       3,517,697  
    


 

 

 

 

 

(32) Non-cash Financing and Investing Activities

 

Significant non-cash investing activities for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

     Millions

     2005

   2006

Construction-in-progress transferred to property, plant and equipment

   2,530,094    3,291,167

Long-term payable under a put and call agreement (note 9)

   46,000    —  

Transfer of trade accounts and notes receivable to held-to-maturity securities (note 8(d))

   30,681    —  

Conversion of convertible notes (note 15)

   —      14,812

 

(33) Contribution Payments for Research and Development and Donations

 

For the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, the Company made contributions of (Won)74,413 million, (Won)66,237 million and (Won)74,849 million, respectively, to the Korean government (Information and Telecommunication Improvement Fund), the Korea Electronic Telecommunication Research Institute (ETRI),

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

and other institutes. In addition, during 1992, the Company established a labor welfare fund as a separate entity and for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, the Company made contributions of (Won)50,000 million respectively.

 

(34) Contributions Received for Losses on Universal Telecommunications Services

 

Starting on January 1, 2000, all telecommunications service providers in Korea must contribute towards the supply of universal telecommunications services in Korea. Telecommunications service providers designated as universal service providers by the MIC are required to provide universal telecommunications services, including local services, local public telephone services, telecommunications services for remote islands and wireless communication services for ships. The Company has been designated a universal service provider. The losses incurred by universal service providers in connection with providing these universal telecommunications services are to be apportioned among the service providers based on their respective annual revenues. The Company submits a schedule of estimated costs to the MIC on an annual basis. These costs are subject to review by the MIC before being finalized. For the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, amounts reimbursed to the Company, net of any adjustments were (Won)80,310 million and (Won)7,442 million and (Won)41,817million, respectively.

 

(35) Reconciliation to United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles

 

The consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with Korean GAAP which differs in certain respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). The significant differences between Korean GAAP and U.S. GAAP that affect the Company’s financial statements are described below.

 

(a) Companies Included in Consolidation

 

Under Korean GAAP, all majority-owned subsidiaries and entities of which the Company or a controlled subsidiary owns more than 30% of total outstanding voting stock and is the largest stockholder are consolidated. However, U.S. GAAP generally requires that majority-owned subsidiaries be consolidated and that an entity which the Company has significant influence, generally including those in which it owns 20-50% of total outstanding voting stock, should not be consolidated; rather that entity should be accounted for under the equity method of accounting. The following table shows the Company’s percentage of ownership and carrying value of each of its affiliates that are excluded from consolidation under U.S. GAAP and instead are accounted for under the equity method:

 

     Percentage of ownership

   Carrying value (Millions)

     December 31,

   December 31,

Entity


       2004    

       2005    

       2006    

         2005      

         2006      

Listed:

                        

KTF

   48.7    44.6    N/A    1,947,340    N/A

Olivenine

   —      —      19.7    —      22,000

KTSC

   36.9    36.9    36.9    11,966    9,091

Unlisted:

                        

KTP

   44.9    44.9    44.9    36,076    27,664

Sidus FNH

   —      42.5    N/A    19,599    N/A

SFNH-BF(1)

   —      —      43.3    —      13,032

 

The quoted market values (based on closing KOSDAQ prices) of KTSC and Olivenine shares held by the Company is (Won)12,128 million and (Won)24,238 million as of December 31, 2006, respectively.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

As discussed at Note 35(d), for the year ended December 31, 2005, the Company recognized an other-than-temporary impairment loss under U.S. GAAP amounting to (Won)9,595 million relating to KTSC due to the significant decrease of the quoted market value.

 

The Company acquired additional shares of KTF during the period from February 28, 2006 to September 15, 2006. The Company’s ownership percentage of KTF increased from 44.6% to 50.8% as a result of the series of acquisition. Percentage of ownership exceeded 50% as of August 20, 2006 and accordingly, the Company became the majority shareholder and began to consolidate the financial statements of KTF under U.S. GAAP which were previously accounted for using the equity method until August 20, 2006.

 

Condensed balance sheet data of KTF as of August 20, 2006 under U.S. GAAP is as follows:

 

     Millions

Assets

      

Current assets

      

Notes and accounts receivable—trade

   (Won) 1,216,613

Other current assets

     1,517,140
    

Total current assets

     2,733,753

Property, plant and equipment, net

     4,136,338

Other assets

     1,421,591
    

     (Won) 8,291,682
    

Liabilities

      

Current liabilities

      

Notes and accounts payable

   (Won) 1,249,697

Other current liabilities

     805,494
    

Total current liabilities

     2,055,191

Long-term debt, excluding current portion

     1,377,700

Other long-term liabilities

     565,793
    

Total liabilities

     3,998,684
    

Minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries

     5,698
    

Stockholders’ equity

     4,287,300
    

     (Won) 8,291,682
    

 

The acquisition was accounted as step acquisition. The purchase price of additional shares was (Won)357,582 million including direct costs of acquisition, and goodwill amounting to (Won)484,599 million was recognized as a result of purchase price allocation. Deferred tax assets amounting to (Won)416,928 million relating to the basis difference for its investment in KTF while being accounted for under the equity method was derecognized as it is not apparent that the temporary difference will reverse in the foreseeable future and was included in the determination of the total purchase price. Percentage of ownership of KTF is 52.2% as of December 28, 2006 due to the purchase and retirement of treasury stock by KTF. The purchase and retirement of treasury shares is considered a separate step acquisition for which consideration was (Won)164,884 million resulting in additional goodwill of (Won)23,212 million.

 

KTFT (owned 73.1% by KTF), KTFM (owned 51.0% by KTF), and KTFI (owned 99.0% by KTF), are consolidated by KTF, accordingly these companies were consolidated in the Company’s consolidated financial

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

statements beginning August 21, 2006. In addition, as of August 21, 2006, Sidus FNH, which is owned by the Company and KTF by 35.7% and 15.3%, respectively, was consolidated.

 

Presented below is the summarized combined financial information of those entities that are consolidated under Korea GAAP but not for U.S. GAAP, prepared in accordance with Korean GAAP as of December 31, 2005 and 2006, and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2006.

 

As KTF became a consolidated subsidiary as of August 20, 2006, the condensed balance sheet information as of December 31, 2006 does not include the balances of KTF. In addition, the condensed income statement information for 2006 includes operational results of KTF for the period from January 1, 2006 through August 20, 2006.

 

     Millions

     2005

   2006

Current assets

   (Won) 2,761,977    179,847

Other assets

     5,931,467    150,817
    

  

Total assets

     8,693,444    330,664
    

  

Current liabilities

     1,913,025    118,599

Other liabilities

     2,371,085    48,188
    

  

Total liabilities

     4,284,110    166,787
    

  

Net assets

   (Won) 4,409,334    163,877
    

  

 

     Millions

     2004

   2005

   2006

Operating revenues

   (Won) 6,352,211    6,498,916    4,335,555

Operating income

     542,599    823,001    556,766

Net earnings

   (Won) 298,232    538,029    202,879

 

     Millions

 
     2004

    2005

    2006

 

Cash flows provided by operating activities

   (Won) 1,105,929     2,266,506     1,045,235  

Cash flows used in investing activities

     (1,010,857 )   (1,362,616 )   (690,269 )

Cash flows used in financing activities

     (87,174 )   (644,694 )   (350,278 )

Cash flows from change of subsidiaries in consolidated financial statements

     —       39,706     (287,591 )
    


 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     7,898     298,902     (282,903 )

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

     45,529     53,427     352,329  
    


 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

   (Won) 53,427     352,329     69,426  
    


 

 

 

The Company’s proportionate share of U.S. GAAP adjustments of KTF, KTSC, KTFT, KTFM, KTFI, Sidus FNH, BEP, KTP and SFNH-BF(1) and Olivenine for periods prior to consolidation are presented in the line item “U.S. GAAP adjustments of equity method affiliates” in the U.S. GAAP reconciliation of net earnings and shareholders’ equity for the applicable periods. Condensed consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2005 and 2006, and condensed consolidated income statements and condensed statements of cash flows of the Company under U.S. GAAP for each of the years in three-year period ended December 31, 2006 are presented elsewhere in note 35(x).

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(b) Debt and Equity Securities

 

Under Korean GAAP, non-marketable securities should be classified as available-for-sale and carried at cost or fair value if applicable with unrealized holding gains and losses reported as a capital adjustment, net of tax. For U.S. GAAP purposes, investment in non-marketable equity securities are accounted for under the cost method or the equity method of accounting in accordance with Accounting Principles Board Opinion (“APB”) No. 18.

 

Under Korean GAAP, available-for-sale securities, whose likelihood of being disposed within one year from the balance sheet date is probable, are classified as current. Under U.S. GAAP, when the disposition of available-for-sale securities within one year is reasonably expected, available-for-sales securities are classified as current.

 

For U.S. GAAP purposes, the Company accounts for marketable equity and debt investments under the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities.” SFAS No. 115 requires that marketable equity securities and all debt securities be classified in three categories and accounted for as follows:

 

   

Debt securities that the enterprise has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held-to-maturity securities and reported at amortized cost.

 

   

Debt and equity securities that are bought and held principally for the purpose of selling in the short term are classified as trading securities and reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses included in earnings.

 

   

Debt and equity securities not classified as either held-to-maturity securities or trading securities are classified as available-for-sale securities and reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses excluded from earnings and reported in a separate component of stockholders’ equity until realized.

 

Information under U.S. GAAP with respect to investments under SFAS No. 115, at December 31, 2005 and 2006 is as follows:

 

     2005 (millions)

     Cost or
amortized
cost


   Gross
unrealized
holding
gains


   Gross
unrealized
holding
losses


   Fair
value


Equity securities (available-for-sale)

   (Won) 10,893    7,805    533    18,165

Debt securities (available-for-sale)

     961    8    —      969
    

  
  
  
     (Won) 11,854    7,813    533    19,134
    

  
  
  
     2006 (millions)

     Cost or
amortized
cost


   Gross
unrealized
holding
gains


   Gross
unrealized
holding
losses


   Fair
value


Equity securities (available-for-sale)

   (Won) 14,499    14,946    287    29,158

Debt securities (available-for-sale)

     200,563    1,550    —      202,113
    

  
  
  
     (Won) 215,062    16,496    287    231,271
    

  
  
  

 

The proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities were (Won)577,616 million in 2004, (Won)906,395 million in 2005 and (Won)690,177 million in 2006. The realized gains on those sales were (Won)6,340 million in 2004, (Won)26,184 million in 2005 and (Won)68,293 million in 2006 and the realized losses on these sales were (Won)12,594 million in 2004. The average-cost method is used to calculate gains or losses from the sale of available-for-sale securities.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

On November 3, 2005, the FASB issued FSP SFAS 115-1 and SFAS 124-1, “The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and Its Application to Certain Investments.” This FSP nullifies certain requirements of EITF Issue No. 03-1 and supersedes EITF Abstracts, Topic No. D-44, “Recognition of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment upon the Planned Sale of a Security Whose Cost Exceeds Fair Value.” This FSP carries forward the disclosure requirements included in EITF Issue No. 03-1. The Company has not included the disclosure requirements of EITF Issue No. 03-1 related to investments’ gross unrealized losses and fair value, since the amounts were immaterial. These pronouncements are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2005.

 

(c) Business Combinations

 

Under Korean GAAP, upon acquiring a controlling financial interest in a subsidiary, either the difference between the Company’s cost of an acquired business and the fair value of tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired or the difference between the cost of an acquired business and the corresponding share of stockholders’ equity (book value) of an acquired business, depending on the availability of fair value information, is presented as goodwill. In addition, acquisitions are accounted for assuming such transactions occur as of the date of the audited or reviewed financial statements of the acquired business which are closest to the date of acquisition.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, the cost of an acquired business is allocated to the fair value of net tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed, with any excess presented as goodwill and the acquisitions are accounted for as of the date the transaction occurred.

 

The Company acquired additional shares of KTF during the period from February 28, 2006 to September 15, 2006, resulting in an increase of ownership percentage of KTF from 44.6% to 50.8%. Percentage of ownership exceeded 50% as of August 20, 2006 and accordingly the Company became the majority shareholder and began consolidating the financial statements of KTF which were previously accounted for using the equity method until August 20, 2006. Purchase price of additional shares was (Won)357,582 million including direct costs of acquisition. In addition, a deferred tax assets of (Won)416,928 million relating to basis difference of the Company’s investment in KTF while being accounted for under the equity method was derecognized upon consolidation of KTF and included in the determination of the total purchase price for the acquisition. Goodwill amounting to (Won)484,599 million was recorded as a result of the purchase price allocation. Percentage of ownership to KTF increased to 52.2% as of December 28, 2006 due to the purchase and retirement of treasury stock by KTF. The purchase and retirement of treasury shares of KTF is accounted as a step acquisition and the Company recognized additional goodwill amounting to (Won)23,212 million.

 

KTFT, KTFM and KTFI are consolidated by KTF, accordingly these companies began to be included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements from August 21, 2006. Sidus FNH, which is owned by the Company and KTF by 35.7% and 15.3%, respectively, also began to be included in consolidation process from August 21, 2006 because the Company started to control it effectively since then.

 

The following unaudited pro forma financial information presents the combined results of operations of the Company and KTF in accordance with U.S. GAAP as if the acquisition had occurred at January 1, 2005 and 2006.

 

     Millions, except per share data

     2005

   2006

Net revenue

   (Won) 17,107,048    17,440,435

Net earnings

     1,159,746    1,323,671

Net earnings per share:

           

Basic

     5,482    6,306

Diluted

     5,475    6,299

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(d) Goodwill Impairment including Investor-level Goodwill

 

Under Korean GAAP, goodwill, which represents the excess of the acquisition cost over the fair value of net identifiable assets acquired, is amortized on a straight-line basis over its estimated economic useful life not to exceed 20 years. When it is no longer probable that goodwill will be recovered from expected future economic benefits, it is expensed immediately. Also, for investments in affiliated companies accounted for using the equity method, the excess of acquisition cost of the affiliates over the Company’s share of their net assets at the acquisition date is amortized by the straight-line method over its estimated useful life.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are not amortized, but instead are tested for impairment at least annually. In accordance with SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets”, goodwill is tested for impairment on an annual basis by comparing the fair value of the Company’s reporting units to their carrying amounts. The investor-level goodwill is tested for impairment in accordance with APB No. 18. The investor-level goodwill, which is recorded only at the investor’s financial statements, represents the excess of the acquisition cost of equity method investees over the fair value of investor’s share of net identifiable assets acquired.

 

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill which is recorded in the PCS Services segment for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006 are as follows:

 

     Millions

Balance as of January 1, 2005

   (Won) —  

Goodwill acquired during the period

     —  

Balance as of December 31, 2005

   (Won) —  
    

Goodwill acquired during the period

     507,811
    

Balance as of December 31, 2006

   (Won) 507,811
    

 

(e) Equity Method Accounting

 

Under Korean GAAP, a put and call combination contract should be recorded as a right and obligation of the Company to acquire shares in accordance with the terms of the contract. Accordingly, the Company recorded the right and obligation of the option contract as additional equity investment and long-term payable.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, the potential equity ownership that may become available to the Company upon exercise of the option is not recorded prior to exercise, as the Company does not have legal ownership of the underlying shares. However, based on the nature of the Company’s arrangement to potentially acquire additional shares in KDB, the Company has resumed recognition of its share of investee losses, and during 2005, recorded losses incurred from the date that its existing investment was reduced to nil. Therefore, the amount recognized in earnings under U.S. GAAP is the same as that recognized under Korean GAAP, except for the effect of other differences described herein.

 

(f) Additional Equity Investments in and Transactions of Subsidiaries

 

Under Korean GAAP, subsequent to acquiring a controlling financial interest in a subsidiary, additional equity investments by the Company in subsidiaries stock and other equity transactions of subsidiaries are accounted for assuming such transactions occur as of the date of audited or reviewed financial statements of the acquired subsidiary closest to the date of acquisition. In addition, the difference between the Company’s cost of the acquired additional interest and the corresponding share of stockholders’ equity of the acquired subsidiary is presented as an adjustment to capital surplus.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Under U.S. GAAP, such equity investments in and transactions of affiliates and subsidiaries are recorded and accounted for as of the date the transaction occurs. As a result, the Company has a different basis in its equity investments in the subsidiaries under Korean GAAP as compared to U.S. GAAP. Therefore, any gains or losses recorded by the Company (which are recorded as capital transactions in stockholders’ equity) when an equity investee sells shares of its stock will be different under U.S. GAAP as compared to Korean GAAP. In addition, under U.S. GAAP, the cost of an additional equity interest would be allocated based on the fair value of net tangible and identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, with the excess allocated to goodwill.

 

(g) Depreciation

 

In 1995, KT adopted a method of depreciation, as allowed under Korean GAAP, whereby property, plant and equipment placed in service at any time during the first half of the year received a full year of depreciation expense, and property, plant and equipment placed in service at any time during the second half of the year received one-half year of depreciation. Also, as permitted under Korean GAAP, depreciation of these assets was based on lives which are shorter than their economic useful lives. In 1996, KT adopted the policy, also acceptable under Korean GAAP, whereby property, plant and equipment is depreciated from the actual date it is placed in service, while continuing to use useful lives which are shorter than the economic useful lives of such assets. In 1998, under Korean GAAP, as required under a ruling by the National Tax Service (which is also applicable under Korean GAAP), the Company changed the estimated useful lives of certain assets, including underground access to cable tunnels and concrete and steel telephone poles acquired after 1995, from 6 years to periods ranging from 20 years to 40 years, and changed the depreciation method from the declining-balance method to the straight-line method.

 

In 1999, under Korean GAAP, the Company changed its depreciation method for buildings and structures acquired before December 31, 1994, from the declining-balance method to the straight-line method in order to be consistent with the method applied to buildings and structures acquired after January 1, 1995.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, property, plant and equipment is generally depreciated over its estimated useful life in a systematic and rational manner. In addition, the depreciation method in the year of acquisition based on the Company’s in-service dates for its capital additions in 1995 described above, does not comply with U.S. GAAP in that significant depreciation expense is recognized prior to the actual use of the asset. The change in estimated useful lives in 1998, and the changes in 1998 and 1999 from the declining-balance method to the straight-line method would also not be appropriate under U.S. GAAP. Accordingly, adjustments have been reflected for U.S. GAAP purposes for the effect of each of these items.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, property, plant and equipment is generally depreciated by using the declining-balance method except for the assets of certain subsidiaries, buildings and structures acquired in 1995 and thereafter which are depreciated using the straight-line method.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, the useful lives of property, plant and equipment are summarized as follows:

 

     Estimated Useful Lives

Buildings and structures

   5 - 60 years

Underground access to cable tunnels, and concrete and steel telephone poles

   10 - 40 years

Machinery and equipment

   3 - 15 years

Vehicles

   3 - 10 years

Tools, furniture and fixtures:

    

Steel safe boxes

   20 years

Tools, computer equipment, furniture and fixtures

   3 - 8 years

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(h) Interest Capitalization

 

Under Korean GAAP, prior to January 1, 2003, interest was capitalized on borrowings related to the construction of all property, plant and equipment and IMT-2000 frequency usage right, incurred prior to completing the acquisition, as part of the cost of such assets. Effective January 1, 2003, the Company adopted SKAS No. 7 “Capitalization of Financing Costs”. As allowed by this standard, the Company has elected to expense all interest costs as incurred beginning in 2003.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, interest costs related to certain assets that are routinely manufactured or otherwise produced in large quantities on a regular basis are not in the scope of interest capitalization. In addition, interest is capitalized in the amount that would have theoretically been avoided had expenditures not been made for assets which require a period of time to get them ready for their intended use. Under U.S. GAAP, details of interest capitalization for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are as follows:

 

     Millions

     2004

   2005

   2006

Total interest costs incurred

   (Won) 467,365    417,658    379,017

Less amounts charged to expense

     455,211    410,319    369,848
    

  
  

Interest capitalized

   (Won) 12,154    7,339    9,169
    

  
  

 

(i) Intangible Assets

 

Under Korean GAAP, prior to January 1, 2003, pre-operating costs and research costs were expensed as incurred, and development costs and organization costs were deferred and amortized over estimated useful lives provided such costs are recoverable from future earnings. Effective January 1, 2003, the Company adopted SKAS No. 3 “Intangible Assets”, which requires organization costs to be expensed as incurred. In addition, the cumulative effects of organization costs in prior years of this change in accounting of (Won)1,530 million have been charged to retained earnings and (Won)2,198 million of minority interest as of January 1, 2003. As allowed by the transition clause of the statement, development costs prior to January 1, 2003 were not applied to the statement. All of these costs are expensed as incurred under U.S. GAAP except for capitalized internal-use software development costs. Therefore, accounting for such costs under Korean GAAP is consistent with U.S. GAAP for periods after adoption of SKAS No. 3, “Intangible Assets”. The variance between Korean GAAP and U.S. GAAP due to development costs incurred before January 1, 2003 was fully reconciled by the end of 2005 as the assets became fully amortized under Korean GAAP. Consequently, as of December 31, 2005, there is no reconciling item in stockholders’ equity relating to GAAP difference for intangible assets.

 

However, in 2006 as KTF became a consolidated subsidiary of the Company as of August 20, 2006, KTF held frequency usage rights which were capitalized prior to January 1, 2003 under Korean GAAP. Accordingly, the reconciliation amount reflected in stockholders’ equity as of December 31, 2006 relates to differences in accounting for frequency usage rights held by KTF.

 

Under Korean GAAP, the frequency usage right related to the second generation (“2G”) paid by the initial shareholders to obtain the operating licenses prior to the establishment of KTM.Com Co., Ltd. (“KTM”), which was merged into KTF in 2001, was not recognized as an intangible asset in applying purchase accounting of KTM by KT in 2000.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, the 2G frequency usage right is considered as indefinite lived intangible assets and thus in the process of purchase accounting of KTM, KT recognized the frequency usage right at fair value. However,

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

on December 31, 2005, the Korea Communication Act (“Act”) was revised effective July 1, 2006. Under the revised Act, the frequency usage right of 2G will expire by June, 2011. Thus, KTF amortizes the frequency usage right of 2G over the remaining useful life under U.S. GAAP for the year ended December 31, 2006.

 

Identifiable intangible assets determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are presented below. As KTF became a consolidated subsidiary of KT as of August 20, 2006, the balances as of December 31, 2006 includes intangibles held by KTF and the amortization expense for the year ended December 31, 2006 reflects amortization expense relating to intangibles assets of KTF for the period from August 21, 2006 to December 31, 2006.

 

     2005 (Millions)

     Gross carrying
amount


   Accumulated
amortization


   Net
amount


Amortized intangible assets:

                

Internal-use software

   (Won) 487,960    231,246    256,714

Frequency usage rights

     125,800    —      125,800

Buildings and facility utilization rights

     119,824    52,573    67,251

Other

     20,319    8,983    11,336
    

  
  

Total

   (Won) 753,903    292,802    461,101
    

  
  
     2006 (Millions)

     Gross carrying
amount


   Accumulated
amortization


   Net
amount


Amortized intangible assets:

                

Internal-use software

   (Won) 614,181    310,862    303,319

Frequency usage rights

     1,465,990    324,037    1,141,953

Buildings and facility utilization rights

     127,934    57,718    70,216

Other

     290,913    201,798    89,115
    

  
  

Total

   (Won) 2,499,018    894,415    1,604,603
    

  
  

Amortization expense:

                

For the year ended December 31, 2005

   (Won) 93,467 million          

For the year ended December 31, 2006

   (Won) 182,378 million          

Estimated amortization expense:

                

 

For years ended December 31,


   Millions

2007

   (Won) 292,462

2008

     279,120

2009

     254,114

2010

     148,902

2011

     133,205

 

The weighted-average amortization period of total amortized intangible assets, internal-use software, frequency usage rights and utilization rights are 9 years, 6 years, 11 years and 20 years, respectively. The Company has no identifiable intangible assets that are not subject to amortization.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(j) Bonds with Warrants

 

Under Korean GAAP, prior to January 1, 2003, Korean GAAP did not require separate recognition of warrants attached to bonds. Effective January 1, 2003, the Company adopted SKAS No. 9, “Convertible Securities” related to bonds with warrants, which require separate recognition of the warrant rights. However, as allowed by the transition clause of the statement, the Company continues to present bonds with warrants issued prior to the effective date as one instrument.

 

Under U.S. GAAP and consistent with SKAS No. 9, “Convertible Securities”, the proceeds from the issuance of bonds with detachable stock warrants should be allocated between the debt obligation and the warrants. The allocations is based on the relative fair values at the date of issuance and the portion of proceeds allocated to the stock warrants is recorded in stockholders’ equity.

 

With respect to the bond with detachable stock warrants issued on January 4, 2002 (note 15), proceeds from bonds with detachable stock warrants were not allocated between debt and stockholders’ equity under Korean GAAP. However, under U.S. GAAP, proceeds net of tax of (Won)13,850 million was allocated to the detachable stock warrants included within stockholders’ equity. The face value of bonds of US$500 million were repaid on January 4, 2005, and the Company does not have any bonds with warrants as of December 31, 2005 or 2006.

 

(k) Revenue Recognition

 

Under Korean GAAP, non-refundable service installation fees for telephone and initial subscription fees for broadband internet access and PCS services are recognized as revenue when installation and initiation services are rendered.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, service installation fees and initial subscription fees related to activation of service are deferred and recognized as revenue over the expected terms of customer relationships. The expected terms of customer relationships for telephone, broadband Internet access and PCS services and leased-line service are 15 years, 3 years and 4 years, respectively. Incremental direct costs related to customer acquisition are expensed as incurred.

 

Under Korean GAAP, handset subsidy paid by the Company is accounted as expenses. However, under U.S. GAAP, the handset subsidy is treated as reduction of revenue in accordance with EITF Issue No. 01-09 “Accounting for Consideration Given by a Vendor to a Customer

 

(l) Foreign Currency Transactions

 

Under Korean GAAP, prior to January 1, 2003, all unrealized foreign currency translation gains and losses on monetary assets and liabilities, except for amounts included in the cost of property, plant and equipment, were included in results of operations. Effective January 1, 2003 the Company adopted SKAS No. 7, “Capitalization of Financing Costs”. As allowed by the standard, the Company elected to include all unrealized foreign currency translation gains and losses (including property, plant and equipment) in the results of operations.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, all foreign exchange transaction gains and losses (referred to as translation gains and losses under Korean GAAP) are included in the results of operations for the current period and therefore, the amounts included in property, plant and equipment and related depreciation expense under Korean GAAP are reversed

 

Under Korean GAAP, the convertible notes denominated in a foreign currency are regarded as non-monetary liabilities since they have equity-like characteristics, and the Company does not recognize the

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

associated foreign currency translation gain or loss. Redeemed portion of convertible notes is regarded as a monetary liability and subject to foreign currency translation but there were no redemption as of December 31, 2006.

 

Under U.S.GAAP, the convertible notes denominated in a foreign currency are translated at the rate of exchange on the balance sheet date, and the resulting foreign currency transaction gain or loss is included in the results of operations.

 

(m) Equity-Linked Securities

 

Under Korean GAAP, the equity-linked securities owned by the Company were considered as available-for-sale securities and recorded at fair value at the balance sheet date. Fair value was calculated based on the quoted market price of SK Telecom shares. Unrealized holding gains and losses were recorded as a separate component of stockholders’ equity.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, the equity-linked securities were separated into two components, the host contract and the embedded derivative. The host contract was recorded at fair value as an available-for-sale debt security with unrealized holding gains and losses included as a separate component of stockholder’s equity. The fair value of the debt security was based on the third party’s appraisal value. The embedded derivative was recorded at fair value and unrealized gains and losses were recorded in results of operations. The fair value of the embedded derivative was based on commonly accepted valuation methods.

 

All equity-linked securities matured during 2004, and the Company does not have any equity-linked securities as of December 31, 2005 or 2006.

 

(n) Convertible Notes

 

Under Korean GAAP, prior to January 1, 2003, the convertible notes entered into between KT and KTF during 2002 were treated as long-term investment securities and were reported at cost. However, effective January 1, 2003, the Company adopted SKAS No. 9, “Convertible Securities”, which requires that convertible notes to be categorized as available-for-sale securities and reported at fair value. The Company recognizes interest income on convertible notes as determined using the effective interest method and unrealized holding gain and losses of the difference between fair value and book value as a component of stockholders’ equity. However, since these convertible notes are between the parent and a consolidated subsidiary under Korean GAAP, the convertible notes and related interest income/expense are eliminated in consolidation. All the convertible notes, which were issued by KTF in 2002, were redeemed for cash on their maturity date (November 29, 2005).

 

For U.S. GAAP purposes, convertible notes are considered a hybrid instrument with a conversion option embedded in the debt instrument. In accordance with SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”, the conversion option is bifurcated from the debt instrument and accounted for separately. The conversion option is recorded at fair value with gains and losses included in earnings. The debt instrument is classified as an available-for-sale debt security and reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity. Since KTF is treated as an equity method investment under U.S. GAAP, the equity income of affiliate would include the earnings impact of the above accounting.

 

(o) Income Taxes

 

Under Korean GAAP, effective January 1, 2005, due to the adoption of SKAS No. 16 “Income Taxes”, deferred taxes are recognized on the temporary difference related to unrealized gains and losses on investment

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

securities that are reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity. Any adjustments to income tax provision attributable to prior years is included in other income. Consequently, there is no GAAP difference as of December 31, 2006 in terms of deferred taxes on unrealized gains and losses on investment securities.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, deferred taxes are recognized on the temporary difference related to unrealized gains and losses on investment securities that are reported as other comprehensive income. Any adjustments to income tax provision attributable to prior years is included in income tax benefit (expense).

 

Under Korean GAAP, recognition of deferred tax benefit from equity in losses of affiliates requires realization of the benefit within the near future, which is construed to mean within 5 years. The Company does not believe it is probable to realize such benefit within 5 years.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, deferred tax assets are recognized for an excess of the tax basis over the amount for financial reporting of domestic and foreign investments accounted for on the equity method (except for corporate joint ventures). However, deferred tax assets related to consolidated subsidiaries are recognized only “if it is apparent that the temporary difference will reverse in the foreseeable future.”

 

Under Korean GAAP, prior to January 1, 2005, all deferred tax assets and liabilities were recorded as non-current. Effective January 1, 2005, per SKAS No. 16, deferred tax assets and liabilities shall be classified as current or non-current based on the classification of the related assets or liabilities for financial reporting or the expected reversal date of the temporary difference. As a result of adoption of SKAS No. 16, there is no difference between Korean GAAP and U.S. GAAP as of December 31, 2006.

 

Under Korean GAAP, in accordance with SKAS No. 16, effective from January 1, 2005, the Company did not recognize deferred income tax liabilities of (Won)21,363 million related to equity in gains of affiliates as of December 31, 2006 since it is able to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, deferred tax liabilities are fully recognized for an excess of the amount for financial reporting over the tax basis of an investment in domestic subsidiaries and corporate joint ventures, unless the investment in the subsidiary can be recovered tax-free under local tax laws and management expects that it will ultimately use that means. However, deferred tax liabilities are not recognized in an investment in a more than 50 percent-owned foreign subsidiary or foreign corporate joint venture that is essentially permanent in duration.

 

As explained at Note 35 (v), in 2006 the Company adopted AKAS 06-2 “Deferred Tax Accounting for Investments in Subsidiaries, Affiliated Companies Accounted for Using the Equity Method, and Interest in Joint Ventures”. This statement requires recognition of deferred tax asset or liability based on net of all temporary differences arising from the same subsidiary or investee rather than on an individual basis. With this adoption, income tax expenses and income taxes reflected in other comprehensive income in 2005 decreased by (Won)33,508 million and (Won)6,320 million, respectively. According to the transition rule of the statement, Korean GAAP prior year financial statements have been restated. Due to the adoption of AKAS 06-2, there is no GAAP difference as of December 31, 2006 and restated December 31, 2005 in terms of the methodology in which deferred taxes on temporary differences arising from same subsidiary or investee are recognized.

 

(p) Minority Interest in Consolidated Subsidiaries

 

Under Korean GAAP, minority interests in consolidated subsidiaries are presented for all periods as a component of stockholders’ equity in the consolidated balance sheet.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Under U.S. GAAP, minority interests in consolidated subsidiaries are not included in stockholders’ equity in the consolidated balance sheet.

 

(q) Shareholder’s agreement between KT and DoCoMo

 

Under Korean GAAP, shareholders’ agreement between the Company and DoCoMo is regarded as a contingency which does not require recognition other than disclosure.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, the agreement is regarded as a guarantee provided by the Company to DoCoMo on behalf of KTF and is subject to FIN 45 “Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others.” Upon commencement of the guarantee, the Company evaluated fair value of the guarantee and obtained fair value. However, the fair value of the guarantee was immaterial and the Company did not record the guarantee.

 

(r) Other

 

Korean GAAP requires gains and losses from the sale of property, plant and equipment and impairment write-downs to be included as part of non-operating income (expenses). Under U.S. GAAP, gains and losses from the sale of property, plant and equipment and impairment write-downs are required to be recorded as a component of operating income.

 

Under Korean GAAP, purchase of treasury shares is regarded as temporary and does not impact the ownership percentages of shareholders unless there is an explicit purpose of retirement of the repurchased shares in accordance with resolution of board members or shareholders’ meeting. Under U.S. GAAP, purchase of treasury shares results in a change of an entity’s ownership structure and ownership percentages of shareholders.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(s) Comprehensive Income

 

Under U.S. GAAP, the Company applies the provisions of SFAS No. 130, “Reporting Comprehensive Income”, which requires the reporting and display of comprehensive income and its components (revenues, expenses, gains and losses). Such presentation is not required under Korean GAAP. Comprehensive income for the years ended and accumulated other comprehensive income balances as of December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

     Millions

 
     As of and for the years ended December 31,

 
     2004

    2005

    2006

    2006
(note 3)


 

Net earnings as adjusted in accordance with U.S. GAAP

   (Won) 1,404,616     1,148,534     1,329,343     $ 1,429.4  

Other comprehensive income, net of taxes:

                            

Foreign currency translation adjustments

     3,012     (3,508 )   (10,520 )     (11.3 )

Unrealized gains on investments:

                            

Unrealized holding gains net of tax of, (Won)3,842 million, (Won)26,509 million and (Won)1,351 million in 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively

     10,128     69,884     3,562       3.8  

Less: reclassification adjustment for gains (losses) realized in net earning due to disposal, net of tax of, (Won)1,997 million, (Won)(7,201) million and (Won)39 million in 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively

     4,257     (18,984 )   102       0.1  
    


 

 

 


Comprehensive income as adjusted in accordance with
U.S. GAAP

   (Won) 1,422,013     1,195,926     1,322,487     $ 1,422.0  
    


 

 

 


Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) balances:

                            

Foreign currency translation adjustments

   (Won) (2,847 )   (6,355 )   (16,875 )   $ (18.1 )

Unrealized gains on investments

     15,565     66,465     70,129       75.4  
    


 

 

 


     (Won) 12,718     60,110     53,254     $ 57.3  
    


 

 

 


 

(t) Statement of Cash Flows

 

Statements of cash flows under Korean GAAP include the cash flows of KTF, KTSC, KTFT, KTFI, Sidus FNH, BEP, Olivenine and KTP, which are accounted for under the equity method under U.S. GAAP.

 

Under Korean GAAP, cash flows from trading securities are included in investing activities, and refundable deposits for telephone installation, guarantee and leasehold deposits and acquisition of additional equity interest in consolidated subsidiaries are included in financing activities. For U.S. GAAP purposes, cash flows from trading securities, refundable deposits for telephone installation and guarantee and leasehold deposits are included in operating activities and cash flows from acquisition of additional equity interest are included in investing activities. In addition, under Korean GAAP cash flows from initial consolidation or deconsolidation of subsidiary is presented as a separate line whereas for U.S. GAAP purposes, it is categorized as investing activities net of cash paid or received.

 

(u) Recent Changes in U.S. GAAP

 

In February 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 155, “Accounting for Certain Hybrid Financial Instruments,” which amends SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” (SFAS No. 133)

 

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KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

and SFAS No. 140, “Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities” (SFAS No. 140). This statement amends SFAS No. 133 to permit fair value remeasurement for any hybrid instrument that contains an embedded derivative that otherwise would require bifurcation. This statement also eliminates the interim guidance in SFAS No. 133 Implementation Issue D-1, which provides that beneficial interests in securitized financial assets are not subject to the provisions of SFAS No. 133. Finally, this statement amends SFAS No. 140 to eliminate the restriction on passive derivative instruments that a qualifying special-purpose entity (SPE) may hold. This statement is effective for all financial instruments acquired or issued in first fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2006. Management is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations

 

In April 2006, the FASB issued FSP FIN 46R-6, “Determining the Variability to Be Considered in Applying FASB Interpretation No. 46R,” which requires the variability of an entity to be analyzed based on the design of the entity. The nature and risks in the entity, as well as the purpose for the entity’s creation are examined to determine the variability in applying FIN 46R, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities.” The variability is used in applying FIN 46R to determine whether an entity is a VIE, which interests are variable interests in the entity, and who is the primary beneficiary of the VIE. This statement is effective for all reporting periods beginning after June 15, 2006. The Company believes that the adoption of this position will not have a significant impact on its financial position or results of operations.

 

In June 2006, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes”, which supplements SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes,” by defining the confidence level that a tax position must meet in order to be recognized in the financial statements. The interpretation requires that the tax effects of a position be recognized only if it is “more-likely-than-not” to be sustained based solely on its technical merits as of the reporting date. The more-likely-than-not threshold represents a positive assertion by management that a company is entitled to the economic benefits of a tax position. If a tax position is not considered more-likely-than-not to be sustained based solely on its technical merits, no benefits of the position are to be recognized. Moreover, the more-likely-than-not threshold must continue to be met in each reporting period to support continued recognition of a benefit. At adoption, companies must adjust their financial statements to reflect only those tax positions that are more-likely-than-not to be sustained as of the adoption date. Any necessary adjustment would be recorded directly to retained earnings in the period of adoption and reported as a change in accounting principle. This interpretation is effective as of the beginning of the first fiscal year beginning after December 15, 2006. Management does not expect the interpretation to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations.

 

In September 2006, the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) issued Staff Accounting Bulletin (“SAB”) No. 108, “Considering the Effects of Prior Year Misstatements When Quantifying Misstatements in Current Year Financial Statements”. SAB No. 108 states that registrants should use both a balance sheet approach and an income statement approach when quantifying and evaluating the materiality of a misstatement. The interpretations in SAB No. 108 contain guidance on correcting prior period errors under the dual approach as well as provide transition guidance for correcting prior period errors. This interpretation does not change the requirements within SFAS No. 154, “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections—a replacement of Accounting Principles Board Opinion (“APB”) No. 20 and SFAS No. 3,” for the correction of an error in financial statements. SAB No. 108 is effective for annual financial statements covering the first fiscal year ending after November 15, 2006. The adoption of this statement does not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (SFAS 157), which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS 157 does not require any new fair value

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

measurements, but provides guidance on how to measure fair value by providing a fair value hierarchy used to classify the source of the information. This statement is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. Management is assessing the potential impact on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued statement No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, an Amendment to FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106, and 132(R)” (SFAS 158). SFAS 158 requires, among other things, that a company (1) recognize a net liability or asset to report the funded status of their defined benefit pensions and other postretirement plans on its balance sheet, (2) measure benefit plan assets and benefit obligations as of the company’s balance sheet date and (3) recognize as a component of other comprehensive income, net of tax, the gains or losses and prior service costs or credits that arise during the period but are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost pursuant to FASB Statement No. 87, or No. 106. The adoption of SFAS 158 as of December 31, 2006 did not have a significant impact to the Company’s financial conditions and results of operation. The current portion of the retirement and severance benefits is (Won)3,098 million as of December 31, 2006.

 

In February 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statements of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities,” which provides companies with an option to report selected financial assets and liabilities at fair value in an attempt to reduce both complexity in accounting for financial instruments and the volatility in earnings caused by measuring related assets and liabilities differently. This Statement is effective as of the beginning of an entity’s first fiscal year beginning after November 15, 2007. The Company is currently evaluating the impact that the adoption may have on our consolidated financial statements.

 

(v) Impact on Reconciliation of Adoption of Statement of Korean Accounting Standards

 

As described in note 2, the Korean Accounting Standards Board (“KASB”) has published a series of Statements of Korea Accounting Standards (“SKAS”), which will gradually replace the existing financial accounting standards, established by the Korea Financial Supervisory Board. Effective January 1, 2004, the Company adopted No. 10 “Inventories”, No. 12 “Construction-Type Contracts” and No. 13 “Troubled Debt Restructuring”. Effective January 1, 2005, the Company adopted SKAS No. 17 “Provisions, Contingent Liabilities, and Contingent Assets”. Effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted SKAS No. 19 “Lease”, No. 20 “Related Party Disclosures”. The adoption of these standards did not have any impact on net earnings, stockholders’ equity or balance sheet classification under Korean GAAP as those standards mainly clarified existing standards.

 

Effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted the following Korean GAAP Standards which had an impact on the U.S. GAAP reconciliation:

 

As described in note 2(t), the Company adopted AKAS 06-2 “Deferred Tax Accounting for Investments in Subsidiaries, Affiliated Companies Accounted for Using the Equity Method, and Interest in Joint Ventures”. With the adoption of AKAS 06-2, certain accounts of prior year’s consolidated financial statements have been restated as required by this standard.

 

Effective January 1, 2005, the Company adopted the following Korean GAAP standards which had an impact on the U.S. GAAP reconciliation:

 

As described in note 2 (g) effective January 1, 2005, the Company adopted SKAS No. 15 “Investment in Associates”. The impact of adopting SKAS No. 15 “Investment in Associates” on the reconciliation to U.S. GAAP in 2005 was immaterial.

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

The impact of adopting SKAS No. 16 “Income Taxes” on the reconciliation to U.S. GAAP in 2005 is described in note 35 (o).

 

(w) U.S.GAAP Reconciliations

 

The effects of the significant adjustments to net earnings and stockholders’ equity which would be required if U.S. GAAP were to be applied instead of Korean GAAP are summarized as follows:

 

    Millions

 
    Years ended December 31,

 
    2004

    2005

    2006

    2006
(note 3)


 

Net earnings in accordance with Korean GAAP

  (Won) 1,282,216     1,085,450     1,291,863     $ 1,389.1  

Adjustments:

                           

Intangible assets

    3,767     1,934     (4,742 )     (5.1 )

Property, plant and equipment

    (71,534 )   (63,555 )   (150,885 )     (162.2 )

Equity in earnings of equity method affiliates:

                           

Reversal of goodwill amortization

    130,113     130,113     145,510       156.5  

Different useful life of intangibles

    22,682     —       —         —    

Additional acquisitions of equity investees

    (48,631 )   (40,678 )   (26,337 )     (28.3 )

Impairment loss relating to equity investee

    —       (9,595 )   —         —    

U.S. GAAP adjustments of equity method affiliates

    (4,737 )   (22,929 )   1,250       1.3  

Interest capitalization (including related depreciation), net

    27,487     13,283     8,631       9.3  

Capitalized foreign exchange transactions, net

    2,133     (100 )   2,789       3.0  

Foreign currency translation of convertible notes

    (130,247 )   355     948       1.0  

Service installation fees

    8,059     44,215     17,615       18.9  

Equity-linked securities

    21,482     —       —         —    

Convertible notes of KTF

    1,106     23,131     —         —    

Bonds with stock warrants

    (6,376 )   —       —         —    

Miscellaneous accounts

    —       —       (68 )     0.1  

Deferred income tax – methodology difference

    172,982     20,267     37,590       40.5  

Deferred income tax effects of U.S. GAAP adjustments

    (5,886 )   (33,357 )   1,346       1.4  

Minority interest income

    —       —       3,833       3.9  
   


 

 

 


      122,400     63,084     37,480       40.3  
   


 

 

 


Net earnings as adjusted in accordance with U.S. GAAP

  (Won) 1,404,616     1,148,534     1,329,343     $ 1,429.4  
   


 

 

 


Basic earnings per share in accordance with U.S. GAAP

  (Won) 6,663     5,428     6,333     $ 6.80  
   


 

 

 


Diluted earnings per share in accordance with U.S. GAAP

  (Won) 6,215     5,423     6,327     $ 6.80  
   


 

 

 


Dividend per share in accordance with U.S. GAAP

  (Won) 3,000     3,000     2,000     $ 2.15  
   


 

 

 


 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:

 

     Millions, except per share data

     Years ended December 31,

     2004

   2005

   2006

   2006
(note 3)


Net earnings available to common shareholders

   (Won) 1,404,616    1,148,534    1,329,343    $ 1,429.4

Dilutive effect of convertible notes

     45,452    43    39      —  
    

  
  
  

       1,450,068    1,148,577    1,329,382      1,429.4
    

  
  
  

Weighted average outstanding shares of common stock

     210.8    211.6    209.9       

Dilutive effect of convertible notes

     22.5    0.2    0.2       
    

  
  
      

Common stock and common stock equivalents

     233.3    211.8    210.1       
    

  
  
      

Basic earnings per share in accordance with U.S. GAAP

   (Won) 6,663    5,428    6,333    $ 6.80
    

  
  
  

Diluted earnings per share in accordance with U.S. GAAP

   (Won) 6,215    5,423    6,327    $ 6.80
    

  
  
  

 

Basic earnings per share is computed on the basis of the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is computed on the basis of the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding plus the effect of outstanding convertible notes using the “if-converted method”. The denominator of the diluted earnings per share computation is adjusted to include the number of additional common shares that would have been outstanding had the dilutive potential common stock been issued at the beginning of the period. In addition, the numerator is adjusted to include the after-tax amount of interest and foreign currency translation gain (loss) recognized associated with the convertible notes. Stock options were not considered when calculating diluted earnings per share because the exercise price of the stock options was greater than the average market price of the shares and, therefore, the effect would have been antidilutive.

 

     Millions

 
     Years ended December 31,

 
     2005

    2006

   

2006

(note 3)


 

Stockholders' equity in accordance with Korean GAAP

   (Won) 10,389,934     10,697,304     $ 11,502.5  

Adjustments:

                      

Intangible assets

     —       66,662       71.7  

Accumulated depreciation

     (151,563 )   (302,448 )     (325.2 )

Equity in earnings of equity method affiliates:

                      

Reversal of goodwill amortization

     520,452     665,962       716.1  

Different useful life of intangibles

     111,631     111,631       120.0  

Additional acquisitions of equity investees

     264,294     767,257       825.0  

Impairment loss relating to equity investee

     (1,462,443 )   (1,462,443 )     (1,572.5 )

U.S. GAAP adjustments of equity method affiliates

     46,719     —         —    

Goodwill impairment

     (12,947 )   (12,947 )     (13.9 )

Interest capitalization, net

     (14,858 )   62,512       67.2  

Capitalized foreign exchange transactions, net

     (3,247 )   (7,329 )     (7.9 )

Foreign currency translation of convertible notes

     3,412     —         —    

Deferred service installation fees

     (469,623 )   (472,382 )     (508.0 )

Deferred tax effects of U.S. GAAP adjustments

     348,122     169,242       182.0  

Deferred tax-methodology difference

     293,371     51,136       55.0  

Miscellaneous accounts

     —       79       0.1  

Minority interests

     (2,518,213 )   (2,296,243 )     (2,469.1 )
    


 

 


       (3,044,893 )   (2,659,311 )     (2,859.5 )
    


 

 


Stockholders' equity as adjusted in accordance with U.S. GAAP

   (Won) 7,345,041     8,037,993     $ 8,643.0  
    


 

 


 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

(x) Condensed Consolidated U.S. GAAP Financial Information

 

Condensed consolidated balance sheets in accordance with U.S. GAAP as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are presented as follows:

 

     Millions

     2005

   2006

  

2006

(note 3)


Assets                   

Current assets

                  

Notes and accounts receivable—trade

   (Won) 1,576,922    2,540,682    $ 2,731.9

Other current assets

     2,176,761    3,264,309      3,510.0
    

  
  

Total current assets

     3,753,683    5,804,991      6,241.9

Investments

     2,180,237    340,143      365.7

Property, plant and equipment, net

     10,677,476    14,729,385      15,838.0

Other assets

     1,771,916    3,223,980      3,466.6
    

  
  

     (Won) 18,383,312    24,098,499    $ 25,912.2
    

  
  

Liabilities                   

Current liabilities

                  

Notes and accounts payable—trade

   (Won) 793,948    769,137    $ 827.0

Other current liabilities

     2,625,824    4,702,683      5,056.6
    

  
  

Total current liabilities

     3,419,772    5,471,820      5,883.6

Long-term debt, excluding current portion

     5,659,000    6,110,171      6,570.1

Other long-term liabilities

     1,868,671    2,295,967      2,468.7
    

  
  

Total liabilities

     10,947,443    13,877,958      14,922.4
    

  
  

Minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries

     90,828    2,182,548      2,346.8
    

  
  

Stockholders’ equity

     7,345,041    8,037,993      8,643.0
    

  
  

     (Won) 18,383,312    24,098,499    $ 25,912.2
    

  
  

 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Condensed consolidated income statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are presented as follows:

 

     Millions

 
     Years ended December 31,

 
     2004

    2005

    2006

   

2006

(note 3)


 

Operating revenues

   (Won) 12,240,151     12,327,563     14,087,738     $ 15,148.1  

Cost of services

     8,932,097     9,587,728     10,373,725       11,154.6  
    


 

 

 


Gross profit

     3,308,054     2,739,835     3,714,013       3,993.5  
    


 

 

 


Selling, general and administration expenses

     1,306,068     1,142,907     1,842,402       1,981.1  

Other operating expense, net

     (58,339 )   (58,153 )   (6,337 )     (6.8 )
    


 

 

 


Operating income

     1,943,647     1,538,775     1,865,274       2,005.6  

Gain on disposition of available-for-sale Securities, net

     5,821     85,722     63,133       67.9  

Impairment loss of equity method affiliates

     (37,030 )   (9,595 )   —         —    

Foreign currency translation gain, net

     395,542     46,809     114,950       123.6  

Other expense, net

     (518,190 )   (150,281 )   (263,050 )     (282.9 )
    


 

 

 


Earnings before income tax and minority interests

     1,789,790     1,511,430     1,780,307       1,914.2  

Income taxes

     386,934     356,109     357,090       383.9  
    


 

 

 


Earnings before minority interests

     1,402,856     1,155,321     1,423,217       1,530.3  
    


 

 

 


Minority interests in losses (earnings) of consolidated subsidiaries

     1,760     (6,787 )   (93,874 )     (100.9 )
    


 

 

 


Net earnings

   (Won) 1,404,616     1,148,534     1,329,343     $ 1,429.4  
    


 

 

 


 

Changes in consolidated stockholders’ equity in accordance with U.S. GAAP for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are as follows:

 

     Millions

 
     2004

    2005

    2006

    2006
(note 3)


 

Beginning of year

   (Won) 5,890,495     6,660,032     7,345,041     $ 7,897.9  

Net earnings

     1,404,616     1,148,534     1,329,343       1,429.4  

Foreign currency translation adjustments

     3,012     (3,508 )   (10,520 )     (11.3 )

Unrealized gains on investments, net of tax

     14,385     50,900     3,664       3.9  

Sale (purchase) of treasury stock, net

     30     122,083     (199,276 )     (214.3 )

Dividends

     (632,276 )   (632,277 )   (426,113 )     (458.2 )

Other, net of tax of (Won)(4,019) million, (Won)898 million and (Won)(2,021) million in 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively

     (20,230 )   (723 )   (4,146 )     (4.4 )
    


 

 

 


End of year

   (Won) 6,660,032     7,345,041     8,037,993     $ 8,643.0  
    


 

 

 


 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

Condensed consolidated statements of cash flows in accordance with U.S. GAAP for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively, are set out below:

 

     Millions

 
     2004

    2005

    2006

    2006
(note 3)


 

Cash flows from operating activities:

                            

Net earnings

   (Won) 1,404,616     1,148,534     1,329,343     $ 1,429.4  

Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:

                            

Depreciation and amortization

     2,505,800     2,414,585     2,882,488       3,099.4  

Provision for doubtful accounts

     249,884     64,875     47,515       51.1  

Loss on disposition of property, plant and equipment

     89,456     38,034     73,539       79.1  

Equity in losses (earnings) of affiliates including intangible assets amortization

     19,531     (117,939 )   (81,488 )     (87.6 )

Deferred income tax expense (benefit)

     (107,417 )   55,238     (15,261 )     (16.4 )

Gain on disposition of available-for-sale

                            

Securities, net

     (5,821 )   (85,328 )   (63,133 )     (67.9 )

Impairment losses of equity method affiliates

     37,030     9,595     —         —    

Foreign currency translation gain, net

     (395,542 )   (46,809 )   (114,950 )     (123.6 )

Derivatives transaction and valuation losses, net

     145,397     (525 )   92,784       99.8  

Minority interests in earnings (losses) of consolidated subsidiaries

     (1,760 )   6,787     93,874       100.9  

Changes in assets and liabilities:

                            

Notes and accounts receivable—trade

     34,128     171,636     250,695       269.6  

Inventories

     57,850     12,153     68,218       73.4  

Advance payment

     (14,797 )   (17,953 )   52,575       56.5  

Long-term notes and account

                            

Receivable—trade

     (118,069 )   (12,122 )   (20,705 )     (22.3 )

Notes and accounts payable—trade

     (133,327 )   (43,004 )   (59,588 )     (64.1 )

Advance receipts from customers

     11,077     (21,219 )   (610 )     (0.7 )

Income taxes payable

     72,917     (139,881 )   234,888       252.6  

Prepaid expenses

     (8,924 )   (3,750 )   (5,314 )     (5.7 )

Withholdings

     (11,219 )   (5,091 )   (340 )     (0.4 )

Accrued expenses

     2,899     177,643     7,821       8.4  

Accounts payable-other

     (37,091 )   91,178     (21,691 )     (23.3 )

Refundable deposits of telephone installation

     (140,720 )   (128,331 )   (48,557 )     (52.2 )

Retirement and severance benefits

     183,138     183,136     158,423       170.3  

Retirement deposits

     (118,749 )   (125,544 )   (150,621 )     (162.0 )

Other, net

     (106,849 )   (37,793 )   (42,900 )     (46.0 )
    


 

 

 


Net cash provided by operating activities

     3,613,438     3,588,105     4,667,005       5,018.3  
    


 

 

 


 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

     Millions

 
     2004

    2005

    2006

   

2006

(note 3)


 

Cash flows from investing activities:

                            

Additions to property, plant and equipment

     (1,966,224 )   (2,253,726 )   (2,827,851 )     (3,040.7 )

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

     106,487     29,228     54,819       58.9  

Decrease (increase) in short-term financial instruments, net

     (911,223 )   809,862     369,902       397.7  

Proceeds from the sale of available-for-sale securities

     577,616     906,395     690,177       742.1  

Proceeds from the sale of equity security of affiliates

     46,877     52,179     60,785       65.4  

Proceeds from maturity on held-to-maturity securities

     17,985     11,675     607       0.7  

Purchases of available-for-sale securities

     (492,696 )   (224,153 )   (647,051 )     (695.8 )

Sale (purchases) of equity security of affiliates

     —       9,207     (9,482 )     (10.2 )

Purchases of held-to-maturity securities

     (3,075 )   —       (281 )     (0.3 )

Acquisition of additional shares in consolidated subsidiaries and affiliates

     —       —       (109,853 )     (118.1 )

Other, net

     17,299     (75,341 )   (13,715 )     (14.7 )
    


 

 

 


Net cash used in investing activities

     (2,606,954 )   (734,674 )   (2,431,943 )     (2,615.0 )
    


 

 

 


Cash flows from financing activities:

                            

Payment of dividends

     (633,171 )   (632,277 )   (426,663 )     (458.8 )

Decrease in short-term borrowings, net

     (211,410 )   (29,232 )   25,485       27.4  

Repayments of long-term debt

     (1,117,240 )   (4,218,763 )   (922,740 )     (992.2 )

Proceeds from long-term debt

     1,944,080     1,519,075     235,831       253.6  

Acquisition of treasury stock

     —       —       (213,664 )     (229.7 )

Acquisition of treasury stock in consolidated subsidiary

     —       —       (164,884 )     (177.3 )

Payment for secured borrowing

     —       —       (200,000 )     (215.1 )

Other, net

     (1,580 )   (422 )   (3,597 )     (3.8 )
    


 

 

 


Net cash used in financing activities

     (19,321 )   (3,361,619 )   (1,670,232 )     (1,795.9 )
    


 

 

 


Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     987,163     (508,188 )   564,830       607.4  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

     715,339     1,702,502     1,194,314       1,284.2  
    


 

 

 


Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

   (Won) 1,702,502     1,194,314     1,759,144     $ 1,891.6  
    


 

 

 


Supplemental schedule

                            

Interest payments

   (Won) 454,983     432,935     385,553     $ 414.6  

Income tax payments

     419,596     450,840     322,866       347.2  
    


 

 

 


 

(y) Additional U.S. GAAP Disclosures

 

The Company is subject to a number of income taxes based upon earnings which result from the application of a statutory corporate income tax rate (including resident tax) of approximately 29.7% for the year ended December 31, 2004.

 

F-79


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

In December 2003, the Korean government reduced the corporate income tax rate (including resident tax) beginning in 2005. Specifically, effective from January 1, 2005, the income tax rate was reduced from 29.7% to 27.5%. As a result, a change in deferred income taxes of (Won)865 million is charged to income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2004.

 

The components of income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are as follows:

 

     Millions

 
     2004

    2005

   2006

    2006
(note 3)


 

Current income tax expense

   (Won) 494,351     300,871    372,351     $ 400.3  

Deferred income net expense (benefit)

     (107,417 )   55,238    (15,261 )     (16.4 )
    


 
  

 


Income tax expense

   (Won) 386,934     356,109    357,090     $ 383.9  
    


 
  

 


 

Substantially all income before income taxes and related income tax expense (benefit) is attributable to domestic operations. The provision for income taxes using statutory tax rates differs from the actual provision for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 for the following reasons:

 

     Millions

 
     2004

    2005

    2006

    2006
(note 3)


 

Provision for income taxes at statutory tax rates

   (Won) 531,078     415,643     489,584     $ 526.4  

Investment tax credits

     (174,968 )   (171,103 )   (147,509 )     (158.6 )

Additional income tax payment (refund) related to prior year

     2,105     15,845     (26,449 )     (28.4 )

Nondeductible expenses

     29,698     56,863     45,906       49.3  

Fines

     —       41,241     5,985       6.4  

Nontaxable income

     (1,844 )   (2,380 )   (550 )     (0.6 )

Reversal of previously recognized tax liabilities

     —       —       (9,877 )     (10.6 )

Effect of tax rate change

     865     —       —         —    
    


 

 

 


Actual provision for income taxes

   (Won) 386,934     356,109     357,090     $ 383.9  
    


 

 

 


 

The effective tax rates after adjustments of certain differences between amounts reported for financial accounting and income tax purpose, were approximately 21.6%, 23.6% and 20.1% for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

F-80


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

The tax effects of temporary differences that resulted in significant portions of the deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2005 and 2006, computed under U.S. GAAP, and a description of financial statement items that created these differences are as follows:

 

     Millions

 
     Years ended December 31,

 
     2005

    2006

    2006
(note 3)


 

Deferred tax assets:

                      

Allowance for doubtful accounts

   (Won) 114,717     121,672     $ 130.8  

Refundable deposits for telephone installation

     16,215     15,634       16.8  

Investment securities

     26,635     4,139       4.5  

Inventories

     7,635     11,818       12.7  

Property, plant and equipment

     7,976     46,981       50.5  

Unearned income

     129,146     131,914       141.8  

Equity securities of affiliates

     474,074     57,389       61.7  

Tax credit carryforwards

     39,203     68,285       73.4  

Loss carryforwards

     20,088     19,289       20.8  

Accrued expenses

     12,023     65,657       70.6  

Other

     18,776     29,390       31.6  
    


 

 


Total deferred tax assets

     866,488     572,168       615.2  
    


 

 


Valuation Allowance

     —       8,885       9.5  
    


 

 


Net deferred tax assets

     866,488     563,283       605.7  
    


 

 


Deferred tax liabilities:

                      

Equity securities of affiliates

     (14,898 )   (37,541 )     (40.4 )

Accrued interest income

     (173 )   (1,474 )     (1.6 )
    


 

 


Total deferred tax liabilities

     (15,071 )   (39,015 )     (42.0 )
    


 

 


Net deferred tax assets

   (Won) 851,417     524,268     $ 563.7  
    


 

 


 

In 2006, the Company purchased additional shares of KTF, accordingly KTF became a subsidiary as of August 20, 2006. The Company had recognized deferred tax assets amounting to (Won)416,928 million as of August 20, 2006 relating to the basis difference for its investment in KTF while being accounted for under the equity method. As a result of consolidation of KTF, the deferred tax assets can no longer be recorded since it is not apparent that the temporary difference will reverse in the foreseeable future. The Company eliminated the deferred tax assets with the corresponding charge applied to an increase of goodwill as part of purchase accounting and the initial consolidation of KTF under U.S. GAAP.

 

In 2006, KTR, consolidated subsidiary of the Company set up valuation allowance of (Won)8,885 Won as realization of deferred tax asset was not assessed as more likely than not mainly due to lack of expected future taxable income.

 

In 2006, the Company was eligible for investment tax credits of (Won)215,794 million. However, due to the minimum tax provisions, the Company utilized (Won)147,509 million out of total (Won)215,794 million. The remaining tax credit will expire in 2011. During 2006, the Company concluded that the remaining tax credit was more likely than not of realization in the future based on future taxable income estimates. As a result, the Company recorded an income tax benefit of (Won)68,285 million of the tax credit. The loss carryforwards of (Won)19,289 million

 

F-81


Table of Contents

KT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—(Continued)

 

as of December 31, 2006 will expire in 2011. During 2006, the Company concluded that the loss carryforwards were probable of realization in the future based on future taxable income estimates. The amount of the deferred tax asset considered reasonable, however, could be reduced in the near term if estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward period are reduced.

 

In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible and tax carryforwards are utilizable. Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. Based upon the level of historical taxable income and projections for future taxable income over the periods which the deferred tax assets are deductible, management believes that it is more likely than not the Company will realize the benefits of these deductible differences and tax carryforwards.

 

Gross and net property, plant and equipment under U.S. GAAP at December 31, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows:

 

     Millions

     Years ended December 31,

     2005

   2006

   2006
(note 3)


Gross property, plant and equipment

   (Won) 36,265,974    46,763,984    $ 50,283.9

Accumulated depreciation

     25,588,498    32,034,599      34,445.9
    

  
  

Net property, plant and equipment

   (Won) 10,677,476    14,729,385    $ 15,838.0
    

  
  

 

The Company expects to pay the following future benefits to its employees upon their normal retirement age:

 

For years ended December 31,


   Millions

2007

   (Won) 3,098

2008

     5,452

2009

     8,313

2010

     15,768

2011

     19,494

2012-2016

     303,056

 

F-82


Table of Contents

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of

KT Freetel Co., Ltd.:

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of KT Freetel Co., Ltd. (“KT Freetel”) and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as the “Company”) as of December 31, 2005 and 2006, and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2006, all expressed in Korean won. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2005 and 2006, and the results of its operations, the changes in its shareholders’ equity and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2006 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the Republic of Korea.

 

Our audits also comprehended the translation of Korean Won amounts into U.S. dollar amounts and, in our opinion, such translation has been made in conformity with the basis stated in Note 2. Such U.S. dollar amounts are presented solely for the convenience of readers of financial statements.

 

Accounting practices generally accepted in the Republic of Korea vary in certain significant respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Information relating to the nature and effect of such differences is presented in Note 22 for which 2005 information was restated to the consolidated financial statements.

 

As discussed in Note 22, the information previously reported under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America has been restated.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by Committee of Sponsoring Organization of the Treadway Commission and our report dated May 21, 2007 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

 

/s/ Deloitte Anjin LLC

Seoul, Korea

 

May 21, 2007

 

A-1


Table of Contents

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM ON

INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

 

To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of

KT Freetel Co., Ltd.:

 

We have audited management’s assessment, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting, that KT Freetel Co., Ltd. (“KT Freetel”) and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as the “Company”) maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria). The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on management’s assessment and an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, evaluating management’s assessment, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

In our opinion, management’s assessment that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006 is fairly stated, in all material respects, based on the COSO criteria. Also, in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006 based on the COSO criteria.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2005 and 2006, and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2006 (all expressed in Korea won) of the Company and our report dated May 21, 2007 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statement with the explanatory paragraphs relating to our audits comprehending the translation of Korean won amounts to U.S. dollars, information relating to the nature and effect of differences between accounting principles generally accepted in the Republic of Korea and accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and restatement of information previously reported under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

/s/ Deloitte Anjin LLC

Seoul, Korea

 

May 21, 2007

 

A-2


Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2005 AND 2006

 

     Korean Won

  

Translation into

U.S. Dollars (Note 2)


     2005

   2006

   2006

     (In millions)    (In thousands)
ASSETS              

CURRENT ASSETS:

                    

Cash and cash equivalents

   (Won) 307,600    (Won) 590,712    $ 635,174

Short-term financial instruments

     430,000      90,500      97,312

Short-term investment securities (Note 6)

     248,040      202,544      217,789

Trade accounts and notes receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of (Won)148,756 million in 2005 and (Won)214,650 million in 2006, and net of discount on present value of (Won)4,088 million in 2005 and (Won)4,154 million in 2006 (Notes 2, 4 and 19)

     1,070,748      1,216,244      1,307,790

Accounts receivable-other, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of (Won)9,576 million in 2005 and (Won)9,820 million in 2006 (Notes 2 and 19)

     106,610      76,659      82,429

Prepaid expenses

     12,726      14,218      15,288

Inventories, net of allowance for valuation loss of (Won)13,187 million in 2005 and (Won)16,645 million in 2006 (Note 2)

     221,821      130,163      139,961

Short-term loans (Note 5)

     8,277      10,408      11,192

Current portion of deferred income tax assets (Note 17)

     99,576      107,956      116,082

Other current assets

     24,426      23,393      25,153
    

  

  

Total Current Assets

     2,529,824      2,462,797      2,648,170
    

  

  

NON-CURRENT ASSETS:

                    

Long-term financial instruments (Note 3)

     20      20      21

Long-term investment securities (Note 7)

     129,110      29,882      32,131

Investment securities using the equity method (Note 8)

     47,108      57,205      61,510

Long—term trade accounts and notes receivable, net of discount on present value of (Won)4,565 million in 2005 and (Won)4,686 million in 2006 (Note 2)

     55,958      53,801      57,850

Long-term loans (Note 5)

     27,652      15,066      16,200

Guarantee deposits

     224,491      214,313      230,444

Deferred income tax assets (Note 17)

     64,355      42,553      45,756

Property and equipment, net (Notes 9 and 21)

     4,109,193      4,236,328      4,555,191

Intangibles (Note 10)

     1,062,677      967,712      1,040,550

Other non-current assets

     16,448      39,991      43,002
    

  

  

Total Non-Current Assets

     5,737,012      5,656,871      6,082,655
    

  

  

Total Assets

   (Won) 8,266,836    (Won) 8,119,668    $ 8,730,825
    

  

  

 

(Continued)

 

A-3


Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (CONTINUED)

 

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2005 AND 2006

 

    Korean Won

   

Translation into

U.S. Dollars (Note 2)


 
    2005

    2006

    2006

 
    (In millions)     (In thousands)  

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

                       

CURRENT LIABILITIES:

                       

Short-term borrowings (Note 11)

  (Won) 49,294     (Won) 60,038     $ 64,557  

Trade accounts and notes payable (Note 19)

    246,153       229,066       246,307  

Current portion of long-term debt (Note 11)

    —         10,000       10,752  

Current portion of debentures, net of discount on debentures of (Won)418 million in 2005 and (Won)236 million in 2006 (Note 12)

    339,862       499,764       537,381  

Accounts payable-other (Note 19)

    740,130       845,134       908,746  

Accrued expenses

    142,092       128,064       137,703  

Withholdings

    102,095       102,202       109,895  

Income tax payable

    94,041       43,944       47,252  

Current portion of long-term account payable-other, net of present value of (Won)884 million in 2006 (Note 14)

    —         89,116       95,823  

Current portion of reserve for liabilities (Note 15)

    11,931       10,305       11,080  

Other current liabilities

    36,909       30,456       32,748  
   


 


 


Total Current Liabilities

    1,762,507       2,048,089       2,202,244  
   


 


 


LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:

                       

Long-term debt (Note11)

    10,000       20,000       21,505  

Debentures, net of discount on debentures of (Won) 3,305 million in 2005 and (Won)1,841 million in 2006 (Note 12)

    1,676,695       1,178,159       1,266,838  

Long-term accounts payable-other, net of present value of (Won)90,460 million in 2005 and (Won)66,123 million in 2006 (Note 14)

    559,540       493,877       531,051  

Accrued severance indemnities, net (Note 2)

    41,465       44,365       47,704  

Reserve for liabilities (Note 15)

    9,800       9,465       10,177  

Other long-term liabilities

    107       5,562       5,980  
   


 


 


Total Long-term Liabilities

    2,297,607       1,751,428       1,883,255  
   


 


 


Total Liabilities

    4,060,114       3,799,517       4,085,499  
   


 


 


SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:

                       

Common stock (Note 16)

    1,044,181       1,044,181       1,122,776  

Capital surplus (Note 16)

    1,730,948       1,726,645       1,856,608  

Retained earnings

    1,419,222       1,527,847       1,642,846  

Capital adjustments:

                       

Treasury stock (Note 16)

    (2,076 )     (2,077 )     (2,233 )

Loss on disposal of treasury stock

    (17,457 )     —         —    

Equity in capital adjustment of affiliates, net (Note 8)

    (14 )     29       31  

Gain on valuation of available-for-sale securities (Notes 6 and 7)

    6,258       7,231       7,776  

Stock compensation (Note 16)

    4,962       5,265       5,662  

Foreign-based operation’s translation adjustment

    (89 )     (65 )     (70 )
   


 


 


Total Capital adjustments

    (8,416 )     10,383       11,166  
   


 


 


Minority interests

    20,787       11,095       11,930  
   


 


 


Total Shareholders’ Equity

    4,206,722       4,320,151       4,645,326  
   


 


 


Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

  (Won) 8,266,836     (Won) 8,119,668     $ 8,730,825  
   


 


 


 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

A-4


Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

 

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004, 2005 AND 2006

 

    Korean Won

   

Translation into

U.S. Dollars (Note 2)


 
    2004

    2005

    2006

    2006

 
    (In millions, except per share amounts)     (In thousands,
except per share amounts)
 

OPERATING REVENUE (Notes 18, 19 and 21)

  (Won) 5,942,892     (Won) 6,120,489     (Won) 6,607,341     $ 7,104,668  

OPERATING EXPENSES (Notes 18 and 19)

    5,402,745       5,292,745       5,924,681       6,370,624  
   


 


 


 


OPERATING INCOME

    540,147       827,744       682,660       734,044  
   


 


 


 


OTHER INCOME (EXPENSES), NET:

                               

Interest income

    12,832       9,406       26,213       28,186  

Rental income

    10,560       9,260       —         —    

Gain on foreign currency transactions, net

    8,409       9,455       6,001       6,452  

Gain on foreign currency translation, net

    18,857       7,821       1,824       1,961  

Interest expense

    (222,688 )     (186,701 )     (145,244 )     (156,177 )

Loss on disposal of trade accounts and notes receivable (Note 4)

    (12,186 )     (12,511 )     (12,281 )     (13,206 )

Equity in earnings (losses) of affiliates, net
(Note 8)

    (1,042 )     146       (2,505 )     (2,694 )

Gain on disposal of short-term investment securities, net

    423       8,713       22,850       24,569  

Gain (loss) on disposal of long-term investment securities, net

    (3,541 )     386       139       150  

Loss on disposal of property and equipment, net

    (14,053 )     (58,502 )     (42,044 )     (45,209 )

Impairment loss on investment securities (Note 7)

    (45,856 )     (25,131 )     (586 )     (630 )

Loss on valuation of currency options

    (1,349 )     (2,340 )     —         —    

Loss on valuation of currency swap (Note 13)

    —         —         (216 )     (232 )

Loss on transaction of currency options

    —         (9,292 )     (1,415 )     (1,521 )

Impairment loss on intangibles (Note 10)

    —         (3,762 )     (9,047 )     (9,727 )

Loss on cancellation of a lease

    —         —         (22,695 )     (24,403 )

Other, net

    25,075       30,105       12,173       13,090  
   


 


 


 


      (224,559 )     (222,947 )     (166,833 )     (179,391 )
   


 


 


 


ORDINARY INCOME

    315,588       604,797       515,827       554,653  

INCOME TAX EXPENSE (Note 17)

    (25,566 )     (56,510 )     (103,019 )     (110,773 )

MINORITY INTERESTS IN NET INCOME OF CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES

    (2,159 )     (990 )     (807 )     (868 )
   


 


 


 


NET INCOME

  (Won) 287,863     (Won) 547,297     (Won) 412,001     $ 443,012  
   


 


 


 


EARNINGS PER SHARE (Note 2)

  (Won) 1,566     (Won) 3,013     (Won) 2,049     $ 2.203  
   


 


 


 


DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE (Note 2)

  (Won) 1,535     (Won) 3,013     (Won) 2,049     $ 2.203  
   


 


 


 


 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

A-5


Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004, 2005 AND 2006

 

    Korean Won (In millions)

 
   

Common

stock


 

Capital

surplus


   

Retained

earnings


   

Capital

adjustments


   

Minority

interests


  Total

 

Balance at January 1, 2004

  (Won) 955,702   (Won) 1,327,625     (Won) 945,501     (Won) (89,090 )   (Won) 3,300   (Won) 3,143,038  

Net income for 2004

    —       —         287,863       —         —       287,863  

Effect of changes in consolidated subsidiaries

    —       (953 )     (2,266 )     —         2,582     (637 )

Retirement of treasury stock

    —       —         (149,853 )     149,853       —       —    

Dividends

    —       —         (94,137 )     —         —       (94,137 )

Loss on disposal of treasury stock

    —       —         (1,535 )     1,535       —       —    

Purchase of treasury stock

    —       —         —         (146,064 )     —       (146,064 )

Compensation expense resulting from stock options

    —       —         —         2,409       —       2,409  

Equity in capital surplus of affiliates

    —       (2,136 )     —         —         —       (2,136 )

Loss on valuation of available-for- sale securities

    —       —         —         (2,346 )     —       (2,346 )

Effect of changes in minority interests

    —       —         —         —         2,159     2,159  
   

 


 


 


 

 


Balance at December 31, 2004

  (Won) 955,702   (Won) 1,324,536     (Won) 985,573     (Won) (83,703 )   (Won) 8,041   (Won) 3,190,149  
   

 


 


 


 

 


Net income for 2005

    —       —         547,297       —         —       547,297  

Paid-in capital increase

    88,479     405,832       —         —         —       494,311  

Effect of changes in consolidated subsidiaries

    —       580       158       (65 )     11,739     12,412  

Retirement of treasury stock

    —       —         (13,366 )     13,366       —       —    

Dividends

    —       —         (99,715 )     —         —       (99,715 )

Loss on disposal of treasury stock

    —       —         —         (17,457 )     —       (17,457 )

Purchase of treasury stock

    —       —         —         (13,368 )     —       (13,368 )

Disposal of treasury stock

    —       —         —         91,724       —       91,724  

Compensation expense resulting from stock options

    —       —         —         (103 )     —       (103 )

Equity in capital adjustment of affiliates

    —       —         —         (14 )     —       (14 )

Gain on valuation of available-for- sale securities

    —       —         —         1,204       17     1,221  

Effect of changes in minority interests

    —       —         —         —         990     990  

Others

    —       —         (725 )     —         —       (725 )
   

 


 


 


 

 


Balance at December 31, 2005

  (Won) 1,044,181   (Won) 1,730,948     (Won) 1,419,222     (Won) (8,416 )   (Won) 20,787   (Won) 4,206,722  
   

 


 


 


 

 


 

(Continued)

 

A-6


Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (CONTINUED)

 

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004, 2005 AND 2006

 

    Korean Won (In millions)

 
   

Common

stock


 

Capital

surplus


   

Retained

earnings


   

Capital

adjustments


   

Minority

interests


    Total

 

Adjustments increased paid-in capital expenses

  (Won) —     (Won) (3,171 )   (Won) —       (Won) —       (Won) —       (Won) (3,171 )

Net income for 2006

    —       —         412,001       —         —         412,001  

Effect of changes in consolidated subsidiaries

    —       (1,132 )     —         —         (10,565 )     (11,697 )

Retirement of treasury stock

    —       —         (164,884 )     164,884       —         —    

Dividends

    —       —         (120,688 )     —         —         (120,688 )

Appropriation of loss on disposal of treasury stock

    —       —         (17,457 )     17,457       —         —    

Purchase of treasury stock

    —       —         —         (164,885 )     —         (164,885 )

Compensation expense resulting from stock options

    —       —         —         304       —         304  

Equity in capital adjustment of affiliates

    —       —         —         43       —         43  

Gain on valuation of available-for- sale securities

    —       —         —         973       —         973  

Effect of changes in minority interests

    —       —         —         —         807       807  

Others

    —       —         (347 )     23       66       (258 )
   

 


 


 


 


 


Balance at December 31, 2006

  (Won) 1,044,181   (Won) 1,726,645     (Won) 1,527,847     (Won) 10,383     (Won) 11,095     (Won) 4,320,151  
   

 


 


 


 


 


Translation into U.S. Dollars (In thousands) (Note 2)

  $ 1,122,776   $ 1,856,608     $ 1,642,846     $ 11,166     $ 11,930     $ 4,645,326  
   

 


 


 


 


 


 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

A-7


Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004, 2005 AND 2006

 

     Korean Won

   

Translation into

U.S. Dollars (Note 2)


 
     2004

    2005

    2006

    2006

 
     (In millions)     (In thousands)  

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

                

Net income

   (Won) 287,863     (Won) 547,297     (Won) 412,001     $ 443,012  

Addition of expenses not involving cash outflows:

                                

Loss on disposal of property and equipment, net

     14,053       58,502       42,044       45,209  

Depreciation

     997,110       1,044,506       1,043,289       1,121,816  

Amortization of intangibles

     110,692       119,484       127,646       137,254  

Long-term accrued interest

     7,643       —         —         —    

Amortization of discounts on debentures

     12,789       5,385       1,647       1,770  

Amortization of discounts on long-term accounts payable-other

     20,015       21,334       23,452       25,218  

Provision for severance indemnities

     12,670       15,085       15,035       16,166  

Loss on disposal of trade accounts and notes receivable

     12,186       12,511       12,281       13,206  

Loss on disposal of long-term investment securities, net

     3,541       —         —         —    

Salaries and wages

     —         5,160       —         —    

Stock compensation

     2,409       —         304       327  

Impairment loss on investment securities

     45,856       25,131       586       630  

Equity in losses of affiliates, net

     1,042       —         2,505       2,694  

Bad debt expense

     25,485       54,375       89,240       95,957  

Loss on valuation of currency options

     1,349       2,340       —         —    

Loss on valuation of currency swap

     —         —         216       232  

Loss on transaction of currency options

     —         9,292       1,415       1,521  

Minority interest in net income of consolidated subsidiaries

     2,159       990       807       868  

Impairment loss on intangibles

     —         3,762       9,047       9,728  

Loss on valuation of inventories

     —         —         24,231       26,055  

Other

     5,172       6,668       10,021       10,775  
    


 


 


 


       1,274,171       1,384,525       1,403,766       1,509,426  
    


 


 


 


Deduction of revenues not involving cash inflows:

                                

Gain on foreign currency translation, net

     (19,023 )     (7,821 )     (1,824 )     (1,957 )

Gain on disposal of short-term investment securities, net

     (423 )     (8,713 )     (22,850 )     (24,569 )

Interest income (present value)

     —         (2,828 )     —         —    

Gain on disposal of long-term investment securities, net

     —         (386 )     (139 )     (150 )

Equity in earnings of affiliates, net

     —         (146 )     —         —    

Cancellation of stock options

     —         (103 )     —         —    

Other

     (2,974 )     (1,192 )     (16,115 )     (17,329 )
    


 


 


 


       (22,420 )     (21,189 )     (40,928 )     (44,005 )
    


 


 


 


Changes in assets and liabilities resulting from operations:

                                

Decrease (Increase) in trade accounts and notes receivable

     (388,636 )     62,652       137,665       148,027  

Decrease (Increase) in accounts receivable-other

     (19,815 )     (14,395 )     27,640       29,720  

Decrease (Increase) in prepaid expenses

     9,123       (1,405 )     (1,489 )     (1,601 )

Decrease (Increase) in inventories

     (68,182 )     35,935       67,427       72,502  

Decrease (Increase) in long-term trade accounts and receivables

     (83,046 )     28,858       2,158       2,320  

 

(Continued)

 

A-8


Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)

 

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004, 2005 AND 2006

 

     Korean Won

   

Translation into

U.S. Dollars (Note 2)


 
     2004

    2005

    2006

    2006

 
     (In millions)     (In thousands)  

Decrease (Increase) in deferred income tax assets

   (Won) (18,378 )   (Won) (52,584 )   (Won) 13,094     $ 14,079  

Decrease (Increase) in other current assets

     (18,686 )     6,042       553       595  

Payment of severance indemnities

     (8,219 )     (11,332 )     (12,198 )     (13,116 )

Decrease in trade accounts and notes payable

     (32,619 )     (6,049 )     (101,239 )     (108,860 )

Increase (Decrease) in accounts payable-other

     (82,732 )     216,205       117,548       126,396  

Increase (Decrease) in accrued expenses

     32,439       (5,578 )     (14,289 )     (15,365 )

Increase (Decrease) in withholdings

     49,549       (22,573 )     89       96  

Increase (Decrease) in income tax payable

     (8,883 )     67,772       (50,098 )     (53,869 )

Increase (Decrease) in reserve for liabilities

     6,899       (2,743 )     (8,960 )     (9,636 )

Increase (Decrease) in other current liabilities

     11,764       7,318       (8,089 )     (8,698 )

Decrease in other long-term liabilities

     (194 )     135       (922 )     (992 )
    


 


 


 


       (619,616 )     308,258       168,890       181,598  
    


 


 


 


Net cash provided by operating activities

     919,998       2,218,891       1,943,729       2,090,031  
    


 


 


 


CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

                                

Cash inflows from investing activities

                                

Withdrawal of short-term financial instruments

     —         371,300       2,185,000       2,349,462  

Proceeds from sale of short-term investment securities

     100,437       119,173       1,734,497       1,865,051  

Collection of short-term loans

     22,844       24,332       19,287       20,738  

Proceeds from sale of long-term investment securities

     19,147       1,151       1,195       1,285  

Withdrawal of guarantee deposits

     60,530       41,001       33,592       36,121  

Proceeds from disposal of property and equipment

     2,927       127,694       16,016       17,222  

Proceeds from disposal of intangibles

     236       464       249       268  

Other

     27       2,834       804       864  
    


 


 


 


       206,148       687,949       3,990,640       4,291,011  
    


 


 


 


Cash outflow from investing activities

                                

Purchase of short-term financial instruments

     (520 )     (801,300 )     (1,845,500 )     (1,984,408 )

Purchase of short-term investment securities

     (100,000 )     (350,049 )     (1,669,051 )     (1,794,678 )

Purchase of long-term investment securities

     (7,943 )     (2,237 )     (1,521 )     (1,635 )

Purchase of investment securities using equity method

     —         (16,590 )     (7,000 )     (7,527 )

Payment of guarantee deposits

     (32,763 )     (56,110 )     (23,273 )     (25,025 )

Acquisition of property and equipment

     (955,119 )     (729,456 )     (1,232,481 )     (1,325,249 )

Increase in intangibles

     (23,318 )     (28,974 )     (37,475 )     (40,295 )

Lending of long-term loans

     (22,156 )     (13,527 )     (9,556 )     (10,276 )

Other

     (781 )     (13,742 )     (26,166 )     (28,136 )
    


 


 


 


       (1,142,600 )     (2,011,985 )     (4,852,023 )     (5,217,229 )
    


 


 


 


Net cash used in investing activities

     (936,452 )     (1,324,036 )     (861,383 )     (926,218 )
    


 


 


 


 

(Continued)

 

A-9


Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)

 

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004, 2005 AND 2006

 

     Korean Won

   

Translation into

U.S. Dollars (Note 2)


 
     2004

    2005

    2006

    2006

 
     (In millions)     (In thousands)  

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

                                

Cash inflows from financing activities

                                

Paid-in capital increase

   (Won) —       (Won) 514,811     (Won) —       $ —    

Proceeds from short-term borrowings

     5,775,000       230,787       46,951       50,485  

Proceeds from issuance of debentures

     1,275,396       199,297       —         —    

Proceeds from long-term debt

     —         10,000       20,000       21,505  

Disposal of treasury stock

     —         69,108       —         —    

Other

     13,361       5,936       5,457       5,866  
    


 


 


 


       7,063,757       1,029,939       72,408       77,856  
    


 


 


 


Cash outflows from financing activities

                                

Taking over trade accounts and notes receivable

     —         —         (200,000 )     (215,054 )

Repayment of short-term borrowings

     (5,741,052 )     (500,000 )     (27,398 )     (29,461 )

Repayment of current portion of debentures

     (1,055,529 )     (1,035,653 )     (340,280 )     (365,892 )

Acquisition of treasury stock

     (146,064 )     (13,368 )     (164,885 )     (177,295 )

Dividends

     (94,137 )     (99,715 )     (120,688 )     (129,772 )

Other

     (4 )     —         (3,170 )     (3,409 )
    


 


 


 


       (7,036,786 )     (1,648,736 )     (856,421 )     (920,883 )
    


 


 


 


Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     26,971       (618,797 )     (784,013 )     (843,027 )
    


 


 


 


NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

     10,517       276,058       298,333       320,786  
    


 


 


 


INCREASE (DECREASE) FROM CHANGES IN CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES

     —         601       (15,221 )     (16,365 )
    


 


 


 


CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF YEAR

     20,424       30,941       307,600       330,753  
    


 


 


 


CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF YEAR

   (Won) 30,941     (Won) 307,600     (Won) 590,712     $ 635,174  
    


 


 


 


 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

A-10


Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)

 

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004, 2005 AND 2006

 

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION

 

     Korean Won

  

Translation into

U.S. Dollars (Note 2)


     2004

    2005

   2006

   2006

     (In millions)    (In thousands)

TRANSACTIONS NOT INVOLVING CASH:

                            

Transfer of trade accounts and notes receivable to long-term investment securities

   (Won) 30,831     (Won) 25,224    (Won) —      $ —  

Transfer of long-term investment securities to investment securities using the equity method

     —         38,659      —        —  

Transfer of long-term loans to short-term loans

     34,534       12,414      21,418      23,030

Transfer of property and equipment to accounts receivable-other

     12,030       —        —        —  

Transfer of long-term debt to current portion

     —         —        10,000      10,753

Transfer of debentures to current portion

     1,014,556       339,862      499,764      537,381

Transfer of long-term obligation under capital lease to current portion

     15,732       —        —        —  

Transfer of reserve for liability to current portion of reserve for liability

     —         9,096      6,800      7,312

Retirement of treasury stock

     149,853       13,366      164,884      177,295

Recognition of gain(loss) on valuation of investment securities as capital adjustments

     (2,346 )     6,091      6,674      7,176

Transfer of long-term account payable-other to current portion

     —         —        90,000      96,774

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

A-11


Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004, 2005 AND 2006

 

1. GENERAL:

 

(1) KT Freetel Co., Ltd.

 

KT Freetel Co., Ltd. (“KT Freetel”) was incorporated on January 3, 1997, under the Commercial Code of the Republic of Korea, and listed on the Korean Securities Dealers Association Automated Quotation System (the “KOSDAQ”) in December 1999. On April 19, 2004, KT Freetel transferred its listing from the KOSDAQ to the Korea Stock Exchange. KT Freetel is currently engaged in providing personal communications service (“PCS”), value added services, and sale and lease of personal communication devices in Korea. KT Corporation is the parent company. As of December 31, 2006, KT Corporation consolidates KT Freetel as KT Corporation acquired additional 12,489,850 shares (representing 7.64 percent of the total outstanding shares) through the year then ended.

 

As of December 31, 2006, the shareholders of KT Freetel are as follows:

 

     Number of shares

  

Percentage of

ownership (%)


KT Corporation

   102,129,938    52.19

NTT DoCoMo Inc

   20,176,309    10.31

Qualcomm Incorporated

   4,416,350    2.26

Microsoft Corp.

   2,030,000    1.04

Others

   66,948,494    34.20
    
  
     195,701,091    100.00
    
  

 

(2) Consolidated Subsidiary

 

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of KT Freetel and its controlled subsidiaries, except that company whose total assets as of December 31 of the prior year are less than (Won)7,000 million are excluded from consolidation. Generally, control is deemed to exist when the investor has more than 50 percent of the total outstanding voting stock or when the investor is the largest shareholder and owns more than 30 percent of the total outstanding voting stock.

 

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of KT Freetel and the controlled subsidiaries listed below (collectively referred to as the “Company”), of which KT Freetel owns a majority of the issued shares. All inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 

Subsidiary


   Year control
was obtained


  

Ownership

percentage (%)


  
      2004

   2005

   2006

  

Primary business


KTF Technologies Co., Ltd.

(“KTF Technologies”)

   2002    70.75    73.05    74.94    Developing and manufacturing of   PCS handsets

PT KTF Indonesia.

(“KTF Indonesia”)

   2004    99.00    99.00    99.00    Providing PCS

KTFMhows Co., Ltd.

(“KTFMhows”)

   2004    51.00    51.00    51.00    Mobile advertisement

 

On November 30, 2002, KT Freetel exercised the conversion right of convertible bonds at (Won)5,000 per share to acquire an additional 400,000 shares of common stock of KTF Technologies. The acquisition of KTF

 

A-12


Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Technologies was recorded in accordance with the purchase method of accounting. As a result of this acquisition, KT Freetel recorded (Won)3,258 million of negative goodwill for the fair value of KTF Technologies’ net assets in excess of the acquisition cost. Negative goodwill is recognized as income on a systematic basis over the remaining weighted average useful life (5 years) of the identifiable acquired depreciable or amortizable assets.

 

On June 17, 2004, September 30, 2005 and March 23, 2006, KT Freetel acquired KTF Technologies’ minority interests, which represent the subsidiary’s outstanding common stocks of 13.35 percent, 2.30 percent and 1.88 percent, respectively. As a result of these acquisitions, KT Freetel recorded the excess of the acquisition cost over the book value of KTF Technologies’ net assets to capital surplus of (Won)953 million in 2004 and the excess of the book value of KTF Technologies’ net assets over the acquisition costs to capital surplus of (Won)580 million in 2005 and the excess of the acquisition cost over the book value of KTF Technologies’ net assets to capital surplus of (Won)1,132 million in 2006.

 

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:

 

Basis of Financial Statement Presentation

 

The Company maintains its official accounting records in Korean won and prepares statutory financial statements in the Korean language (Hangul) in conformity with the accounting principles generally accepted in the Republic of Korea. Certain accounting principles applied by the Company that conform with financial accounting standards and accounting principles in the Republic of Korea may not conform with generally accepted accounting principles in other countries. Accordingly, these financial statements are intended for use by those who are informed about Korean accounting principles and practices. The accompanying financial statements have been restructured and translated into English (with certain expanded descriptions) from the Korean language financial statements for the convenience of the readers of financial statements.

 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements are stated in Korean Won, the currency of the country in which the Company is incorporated and operates. The convenience translation of Korean Won amounts into U.S. dollar amounts is included solely for the convenience of readers outside of the republic of Korea and has been made at the noon buying rate of (Won)930.00 to US$1.00 at December 31, 2006 in the City of New York for cable transfers in won as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Such translations should not be construed as representations that the Korean Won amounts could be converted at that or any other rate.

 

Significant accounting policies followed by the Company in preparing the accompanying consolidated financial statements are summarized as follows:

 

Adoption of Newly Effective Statements of Korea Accounting Standards

 

The Company prepared its financial statements in accordance with the revised Statements of Korea Accounting Standards (“SKAS”), which are effective from January 1, 2006. The revised accounting standards include SKAS No.18—“Interest in Joint Ventures”, No.19—“Lease”, and No.20—“Related Party Disclosures”. However, adoption of the revised accounting standards did not have a material effect on the Company’s net income or net assets.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with Korean GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates and may affect amounts reported in future periods. Management believes that the estimates are reasonable.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Revenue Recognition

 

The Company’s revenues are principally derived from sales of PCS handsets and PCS service revenues, which consist of non-refundable activation fees, fixed monthly access fees and usage charges. The Company recognizes sales on PCS handsets when these are delivered to the dealers, fixed monthly access fees in the period of service, and usage charges and non-refundable activation fees at the time services are rendered. Each revenue element sold by the Company has its own standalone value to the customer, objective and reliable evidence of fair value, and the delivery or performance of related undelivered item(s), if any, is considered probable and substantially in the control of the Company. In addition, the Company provides handset subsidies, call bonus mileages, and warranties on PCS handsets, none of which cause deferral of revenue as such items are accounted for separately as described in Note 2 (“Handset Subsidies”) and Note 15 (“Reserve for Liabilities”).

 

Trade Accounts and Notes Receivable and Accounts Receivables-Other

 

Trade accounts and notes receivable represents PCS handset and PCS service revenues recognized in the billing system which are directly billed to the customers, while accounts receivable-other mainly comprised of, among others, activation fees and PCS service revenues recognized but billed to dealers on a installment basis.

 

Handset Subsidies

 

Effective March 27, 2006, the Telecommunication Law of Korea was revised to allow wireless carriers to provide handset subsidies to customers who have maintained their wireless account with the same carrier for 18 months or longer. The Company commenced its handset subsidy program on the effective date of the revised Telecommunication Law and included a clause in the service contract which allows the Company to change the terms of its subsidy program, including the Company's ability to terminate the program at any time after a thirty day notice to its customers. Under this subsidy program, the Company provides handset subsidies to customers that have maintained their wireless account with any one carrier for 18 months or longer during the past 2 years. Handset subsidies given for the new or renewed customer relationship are expensed (“sales promotion”) as incurred. In the event that the Company provides illegal handset subsidies to customers, Korea Communications Commission may assess fines and penalties.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

Cash and cash equivalents are bank deposits and short-term money market instruments that can be easily converted into cash and whose risk of value fluctuation arising from changes of interest rates is not material. Only investments with maturities of three months or less from the acquisition date are included in cash equivalents.

 

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

 

The allowance for doubtful accounts is provided based on the estimated loss on uncollectible accounts and historical bad debt experience.

 

Changes in allowance for doubtful trade accounts and notes receivable and accounts receivable-other for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are summarized as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2004

    2005

    2006

 

Beginning of year

   (Won) 167,730     (Won) 143,138     (Won) 158,332  

Write-offs

     (50,077 )     (39,181 )     (23,102 )
    


 


 


       117,653       103,957       135,230  

Provision

     25,485       54,375       89,240  
    


 


 


End of year

   (Won) 143,138     (Won) 158,332     (Won) 224,470  
    


 


 


 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Inventories

 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value, cost being determined using the average cost method. If the net realizable value of inventories is lower than cost, inventories are adjusted to net realizable value and the valuation loss of inventory which is the difference between cost and revalued amount is charged to current operations.

 

When circumstances that previously caused valuation loss of inventory on the application of lower of cost or net realizable value cease to exist, so as to cause an increase net realizable value above the carrying amount, the valuation loss shall be (1) reversed to the extent that the carrying amount after such reversal does not exceed the original carrying amount before adjusting for the loss and (2) subtracted from cost of inventories sold.

 

Inventories as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 consist of the following (Won in millions):

 

     2005

    2006

 

Merchandise

   (Won) 189,432     (Won) 133,531  

Finished goods

     5,352       3,442  

Raw material

     20,122       9,206  

Stored goods

     19,455       21  

Other

     647       608  
    


 


       235,008       146,808  

Allowance for valuation loss

     (13,187 )     (16,645 )
    


 


End of year

   (Won) 221,821     (Won) 130,163  
    


 


 

Investment Securities Other than those Accounted for Using the Equity Method

 

(1) Classification of Securities

 

The Company classifies securities into one of the three categories: trading, held-to-maturity or available-for-sale. Trading securities are those that were acquired principally to generate profits from short-term fluctuations in prices. Held-to-maturity securities are those with fixed and determinable payments and fixed maturity that an enterprise has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity. Available-for-sale securities are those not classified as either held-to-maturity or trading securities. Trading securities are classified as short-term investment securities, whereas available-for-sale securities and held-to-maturity securities are classified as long-term investment securities, except for those maturity dates or whose likelihood of being disposed of are within one year from balance sheet date, which are classified as short-term investment securities.

 

(2) Valuation of Securities

 

Securities are recognized initially at cost, which includes the market value of the consideration given and incidental expenses. If the market price of the consideration given is not available, the market prices of the securities purchased are used as the basis of measurement. If neither the market price of the consideration given nor those of the acquired securities are available, the acquisition cost is measured at the best estimate of its fair value.

 

After initial recognition, held-to-maturity securities are valued at amortized cost. The difference between their acquisition costs and face values is amortized over the remaining term of the securities by applying the effective interest method and added to or subtracted from the acquisition costs and interest income of the remaining period. Trading securities are valued at fair value, with unrealized gains or losses included in current

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

operations. Available-for-sale securities are also valued at fair value, with unrealized gains or losses included in capital adjustments, until the securities are sold or if the securities are determined to be impaired and the lump-sum cumulative amount of capital adjustments are reflected in current operations. However, available-for-sale securities that are not traded in an active market and whose fair values cannot be reliably estimated are accounted under the cost method. For those securities that are traded in an active market (marketable securities), fair values refer to the quoted market prices, which are measured as the closing price at the balance sheet date.

 

Securities are evaluated at each balance sheet date to determine whether there is any objective evidence of impairment loss. When any such evidence exists, unless there is a clear counter-evidence that recognition of impairment is unnecessary, the Company estimates the recoverable amount of the impaired security and recognizes any impairment loss in current operations. The amount of impairment loss of held-to-maturity securities or non-marketable equity securities is measured as the difference between the recoverable amount and the carrying amount. The recoverable amount of held-to-maturity securities is the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the securities’ original effective interest rate. For available-for-sale debt or equity securities, the amount of impairment loss to be recognized in the current period is determined by subtracting the amount of impairment loss of the debt or equity security from the amount of amortized cost in excess of the recoverable amount for debt securities or from the amount of acquisition cost in excess of fair value for equity securities.

 

If the realizable value subsequently recovers, in case of a security stated at fair value, the increase in value is recorded in current operations, up to the amount of the previously recognized impairment loss, while a security stated at amortized cost or acquisition cost, the increase in value is recorded in current operations, so that its recovered value does not exceed what its amortized cost would be as of the recovery date if there had been no impairment loss.

 

Investment Securities Using the Equity Method

 

Equity securities held for investments in companies in which the Company is able to exercise significant influence over the investees are accounted for using the equity method. In addition, subsidiaries with total assets as of the prior year end of less than (Won)7,000 million are accounted for using the equity method. The Company’s share in net income or net loss of investees is reflected in current operations. Changes in the retained earnings, capital surplus or other capital accounts of investees are accounted for as an adjustment to retained earnings or to capital adjustments.

 

Property and Equipment

 

Property and equipment are stated at cost. Routine maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. Expenditures that result in enhancement of the value or extension of the useful lives of the facilities involved are capitalized as additions to property and equipment.

 

Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:

 

    

Estimated useful lives


Buildings and structures

   15~30 years

Machinery and equipment

   5~8 years

Vehicles

   4~8 years

Other

   2~8 years

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Capitalization of Financing Costs

 

Interest expense, discount and other financial charges, including certain foreign exchange translation gains and losses on borrowings associated with the manufacture, purchase, or construction of property and equipment, incurred prior to the completion of the acquisition, were capitalized until the year ended December 31, 2002, and are no longer capitalized commencing from January 1, 2003 as allowed by SKAS No. 7.

 

Long-Lived Assets

 

Long-lived assets are subject to review for impairment on an annual basis and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognized when estimated undiscounted future net cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition are less than its carrying amount. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets.

 

Leases

 

Lease agreements that include a bargain purchase option, which results in the transfer of ownership by the end of the lease term, have a term equal to at least 75 percent of the estimated economic life of the leased property or where the present value of the minimum lease payments at the beginning of the lease term equals or exceeds 90 percent of the fair value of the leased property are accounted for as capital leases. All other leases are accounted for as operating leases. Assets and liabilities related to capital leases are recorded as property and equipment and long-term debt, respectively, and the related interest is calculated using the effective interest rate method. In respect to operating leases, the future minimum lease payments are expensed ratably over the lease term while contingent rentals are expensed as incurred.

 

Intangibles

 

Intangible assets are stated at cost, net of accumulated amortization computed using the straight-line method over the useful lives of the assets as described below.

 

     Estimated useful lives

Frequency use rights

        13 years

Intellectual property rights

     5~10 years

Facility use rights

   10~20 years

Development costs

     2~  5 years

Other

          5 years

 

Long-term Trade Accounts and Notes Receivable

 

Long-term trade accounts and notes receivable arising from long-term contracts are recorded at the net present value of future cash flows, calculated using the effective interest rate at the time of the contract execution. The difference between the nominal value and the present value of these accounts and notes receivable is amortized over the contract period using the effective interest rate method. The amortization is recognized as interest income.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Long-term trade accounts and notes receivable, composed of handset installment receivables, as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 is recorded at net present value using the weighted average borrowing interest rate as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2005

    2006

 

Long-term trade accounts and notes receivable

   (Won) 60,523     (Won) 58,487  

Discount

     (4,565 )     (4,686 )
    


 


     (Won) 55,958     (Won) 53,801  
    


 


 

Discounts on Debentures

 

Discounts on debentures are amortized over the redemption period of the debentures using the effective interest rate method. Amortization of discounts is recognized as interest expense.

 

Accrued Severance Indemnities

 

All employees with more than one year of service are entitled to receive a lump-sum payment upon termination of their employment with the Company, based on their length of service and rate of pay at the time of termination. The severance indemnities that would be payable assuming all eligible employees were to resign at the balance sheet date amount to (Won)41,465 million and (Won)44,365 million as of December 31, 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

Changes in accrued severance indemnities for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2004

    2005

    2006

 

Beginning of year

   (Won) 32,740     (Won) 37,517     (Won) 41,465  

Severance payments

     (8,219 )     (11,332 )     (12,198 )
    


 


 


       24,521       26,185       29,267  

Provision (*)

     13,189       15,754       15,925  

Other changes

     (193 )     (474 )     (827 )
    


 


 


End of year

   (Won) 37,517     (Won) 41,465     (Won) 44,365  
    


 


 



(*) (Won)519 million, (Won)669 million and (Won)890 million of provision are transferred to development cost for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

Foreign Currency Translation of Foreign Subsidiaries

 

In translating the foreign currency financial statements of the Company’s overseas subsidiaries into Korean won, the Company presents the translation gain or loss as a foreign- based operation’s translation adjustment in the capital adjustment section of the balance sheet. The translation gain or loss arises from the application of different exchanges rates; the year-end rate for balance sheet items except shareholders’ equity, the historical rate for shareholders’ equity and average rate for statement of income items.

 

Accounting for Foreign Currency Transactions and Translation

 

The Company maintains its accounts in Korean won. Transactions in foreign currencies are recorded in Korean won based on the prevailing rates of exchange on the transaction date. Monetary accounts with balances

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

denominated in foreign currencies are recorded and reported in the accompanying financial statements at the exchange rates prevailing at the balance sheet date and the translation gains or losses are reflected in current operations. The balances have been translated using the rate of (Won)1,013.00 and (Won)929.60 to US$ 1.00 at December 31, 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

Accounting for Derivative Instruments

 

All derivative instruments are accounted for at fair value with the valuation gain or loss recorded as an asset or liability. If the derivative instruments are not part of a transaction qualifying as a hedge, the adjustment to fair value is reflected in current operations. The accounting for derivative transactions that are part of a qualified hedge based on both the purpose of the transaction and meeting the specified criteria for hedge accounting differs depending on whether the transaction is a fair value hedge or a cash flow hedge. Fair value hedge accounting is applied to a derivative instrument designated as hedging the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset or a liability or a firm commitment (i.e. hedged item) that is attributable to a particular risk. The gain or loss on both the hedging derivative instruments and the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk is reflected in current operations. Cash flow hedge accounting is applied to a derivative instrument designated as hedging the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows of an asset or liability or a forecasted transaction that is attributable to a particular risk. The effective portion of gain or loss on a derivative instrument designated as a cash flow hedge is recorded as capital adjustment and the ineffective portion is recorded in current operations. The effective portion of gain or loss recorded as a capital adjustment is reclassified to current earnings in the same period during which the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. If the hedged transaction results in the acquisition of an asset or the incurrence of a liability, the gain or loss in capital adjustment is added to or deducted from the asset or the liability.

 

Income Tax

 

The provision for income tax consists of the corporate income tax and resident surtax currently payable and changes in deferred income taxes for the period. The Company recognizes deferred taxes arising from temporary differences between amounts reported for financial accounting and income tax purposes. Deferred income taxes will be offset against those incurred in the future, if any. Deferred income taxes are recalculated based on the actual rate, effective at each balance sheet date.

 

Stock Compensation Expense

 

The Company uses the fair value based method of accounting for its employee stock option compensation plan (see Note 16). Under the fair value based method, compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the value of the award and is recognized over the service period. For stock options, fair value is determined using an option-pricing model that takes into account the stock price at the grant date, the exercise price, the expected life of the option, the volatility of the underlying stock, expected dividends and the current risk-free interest rate for the expected life of the option. The computed deferred compensation expenses are allocated over the contracted vesting period. When the stock options are exercised with the issuance of new shares, the difference between the exercise price plus the stock option cost recorded in the capital adjustment account and the par value of the new shares issued, is recorded as additional paid-in capital (See Note 16).

 

Basic and Diluted Ordinary Income per Share and Earnings per Share

 

Ordinary income per share and earnings per share are computed by dividing ordinary income (after deducting the income tax effect) and net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

during the period. The weighted average number of shares used in computing earnings and ordinary income (after deducting the income tax effect) per share was 183,802 thousand, 181,629 thousand and 201,086 thousand shares for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

Diluted ordinary income per share and earnings per share are computed by dividing diluted ordinary income (after deducting the income tax effect) and net income by the weighted average diluted number of common shares outstanding, which includes the additional common share that would have been outstanding if the dilutive potential common shares had been issued during the period. The weighted average number of shares used in computing diluted earnings and ordinary income (after deducting the income tax effect) per share was 193,748 thousand, 181,629 thousand and 201,086 thousand shares for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively. Diluted ordinary income (after deducting the income tax effect) and earnings were (Won)297,334 million, (Won)547,297 million and (Won)412,001 million for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

The dilutive potential shares as of December 31, 2006 are as follows:

 

    

Exercise period


  

Number of

common shares to be issued


Stock options

   March 29, 2004~March 28, 2009    18,000

Stock options

   March 25, 2005~March 24, 2010    44,800

Stock options

   September 9, 2005~September 8, 2010    320,913

Stock options

   March 5, 2007~March 4, 2012    128,800

 

3. RESTRICTED DEPOSITS:

 

As of December 31, 2005 and 2006, deposits under long-term financial instruments amounting to (Won)20 million, are subject to withdrawal restriction as collateral for borrowings and guarantee of checking accounts.

 

4. DISPOSAL OF TRADE ACCOUNTS AND NOTES RECEIVABLE:

 

On December 19, 2003, the Company transferred PCS service receivable accounts with a total balance of (Won)253,247 million as of October 31, 2003 to Shinhan Bank Trust. The Company received (Won)200,000 million of cash and (Won)53,247 million of beneficiary certificate as a result of transferring such PCS service receivable accounts, for which the outstanding balance is revolved on a continuous basis through February 28, 2007 with Shinhan Bank Trust. In connection with revolving the outstanding balance of PCS service receivable accounts, the Company recognized a “loss on disposal of trade accounts and notes receivable” of (Won)11,816 million, (Won)11,862 million, and (Won)10,881 million for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

KTF 3rd SPC exercised its call option on Asset Based Securitization (“ABS”) on December 21, 2006. In accordance with the related contract between the Company and Shinhan Bank Trust, the Company paid cash of (Won)200,000 million and disposed (Won)18,386 million of beneficiary certificate to Shinhan Bank Trust and the Company received trade receivables transferred from Shinhan Bank worth (Won)218,970 million.

 

5. LOANS TO EMPLOYEES:

 

As of December 31, 2005 and 2006, the Company has provided loans to its employees for housing and purchase of KT Freetel’s stock with the balance of (Won)1,144 million and (Won)901 million, respectively, in short-term loans and (Won)1,640 million and (Won)344 million, respectively, in long-term loans.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

6. SHORT-TERM INVESTMENT SECURITIES:

 

(1) Short-term investment securities as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2005

   2006

     Fair value

   Acquisition cost

   Fair value

   Gain on valuation

Trading securities:

                           

Beneficiary certificates

   (Won) 240,097    (Won) —        (Won) —      (Won) —  

Available-for-sale securities:

                           

Beneficiary certificates

     —        200,503      202,005      1,502

Government bonds

     7,943      539      539      —  
    

  

  

  

     (Won) 248,040    (Won) 201,042    (Won) 202,544    (Won) 1,502
    

  

  

  

 

Gain on valuation, before tax effect, of available-for-sales security is recorded in capital adjustments.

 

7. LONG-TERM INVESTMENT SECURITIES:

 

(1) Long-term investment securities as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2005

   2006

Available-for-sale securities:

             

Listed equity securities

   (Won) 6,490    (Won) 21,590

Non-listed equity securities

     13,244      4,700

Investments in funds

     3,361      2,563

Debt securities

     1,710      1,029

Held-to maturity securities:

             

Beneficiary certificates

     104,305      —  
    

  

     (Won) 129,110    (Won) 29,882
    

  

 

(2) Listed equity securities as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2005

   2006

 
     Fair value

   Acquisition cost

   Fair value

  

Gain (loss) on

Valuation


 

Zakang Inc.

   (Won) 24    (Won) 300    (Won) 13    (Won) (287 )

Gaeasoft Co., Ltd.

     1,438      532      1,084      552  

KRTnet Corp.

     4,415      1,954      4,200      2,246  

Geotel Co., Ltd.

     —        263      2,970      2,707  

PT. Mobil-8

     —        10,069      13,323      3,254  

Other

     613      —        —        —    
    

  

  

  


     (Won) 6,490    (Won) 13,118    (Won) 21,590    (Won) 8,472  
    

  

  

  


 

Gain or loss on valuation, before tax effect, of listed equity securities is included in capital adjustments.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(3) Non-listed equity securities as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2005

   2006

     Book
Value


   Ownership
(%)


   Acquisition
cost


   Net asset
value


   Book
Value


Mondex Korea Co., Ltd.

   (Won) —      6.02    (Won) 920    (Won) —      (Won) —  

Internet Metix Inc.

     23    2.00      200      14      14

Geotel Co., Ltd. (*2)

     263    —        —        —        —  

Inews24. Co., Ltd.

     —      2.83      350      —        —  

The Radio News Co., Ltd.

     —      10.73      624      —        —  

Prime Venture Capital Co., Ltd.

     —      4.00      1,000      —        —  

Onse Telecom Corp.

     105    —        —        —        —  

NAZCA Entertainment Co., Ltd.

     46    7.13      500      130      46

Toysoft Co., Ltd

     28    8.78      500      32      28

Ohmylove Co., Ltd.

     131    12.06      1,200      50      50

IMM Investment Corp.

     210    1.09      500      283      210

Vacom Wireless, Inc.

     719    16.77      1,880      641      641

WIZcommunications Co., Ltd.

     290    10.91      290      291      290

Intromobile Co., Ltd.

     200    8.00      200      437      200

Korea Smart Card Co., Ltd.

     326    1.06      326      24      24

Directmedia Co., Ltd.

     248    12.87      435      285      248

Ncerti Co., Ltd. (*1)

     328    19.90      328      476      328

Neighbor System, Inc.

     —      10.40      525      462      525

Entaz Co., Ltd.

     —      10.14      1,000      702      1,000

PT. Mobil-8 (*2)

     9,115    —        —        —        —  

Others

     1,212    —        1,622      1,662      1,096
    

       

  

  

     (Won) 13,244         (Won) 12,400    (Won) 5,489    (Won) 4,700
    

       

  

  


(*1) The Company is not able to exercise significant influence over Ncerti Co., Ltd, through its voting rights or other means.
(*2) Geotel Corp. and PT. Mobil-8 Telecom were listed in 2006.

 

In 2004, 2005 and 2006, the Company recognized an impairment loss of (Won)3,378 million, (Won)332 million and (Won)586 million, respectively, on non-listed equity securities of which the net equity value had declined compared to the acquisition cost and it is not expected to recover.

 

(4) Investments in funds as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2005

   2006

     Ownership
(%)


   Acquisition
cost


   Book
value


   Ownership
(%)


   Acquisition
cost


   Book
value


CEC Mobile Ltd.

   16.67    (Won) 4,457    (Won) 1,507    16.67    (Won) 4,457    (Won) 1,509

Engineering Financial Cooperative

   0.01      15      15    0.01      15      15

MIC2001-4TG Venture

   5.00      650      650    5.00      350      350

Cinema party Fund

   5.00      500      500    —        —        —  

KTOA

   —        689      689    —        689      689
         

  

       

  

          (Won) 6,311    (Won) 3,361         (Won) 5,511    (Won) 2,563
         

  

       

  

 

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Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(5) Debt securities as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2005

   2006

     Acquisition
cost


   Book
value


   Acquisition
cost


   Book
value


Government bonds.

   (Won) 1,710    (Won) 1,710    (Won) 1,568    (Won) 1,568
    

  

  

  

 

(6) Maturities of debt securities as of December 31, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     1 years

   2-10 years

Government bonds

   (Won) 539    (Won) 1,029

 

(7) Held-to-maturity securities as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2005

   2006

     Acquisition
cost


  

Book

value


   Acquisition
cost


   Book
Value


Beneficiary certificates

   (Won) 155,969    (Won) 104,305    (Won) —      (Won) —  

 

The Company acquired the above beneficiary certificates issued by Shinhan Bank Trust in relation to the disposal of trade accounts and notes receivable (See Note 4). The Company disposed these securities on December 21, 2006 and recognized gain on disposal of short-term investment securities of (Won)584 million.

 

8. INVESTMENT SECURITIES USING THE EQUITY METHOD:

 

(1) Investment securities using the equity method as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

    

Ownership

(%)


   2005

   2006

     

Acquisition

cost


   Book
value


  

Acquisition

cost


   Book
value


              

Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd.

   2.12    (Won) 9,954    (Won) —      (Won) 9,954    (Won) —  

KTFMhows Co., Ltd. (*)

   51.00      2,550      2,508      —        —  

Harex Info Tech Ltd.

   21.17      3,375      2,698      3,375      1,902

Korea IT Fund

   10.00      30,000      30,857      30,000      30,483

Korea Telecom Strategy Fund

   10.00      2,000      2,015      2,000      1,837

ENtoB Corp.

   3.13      500      630      500      673

Boston Enterprise Partners (*)

   39.02      —        —        8,000      8,014

Sidus FNH Corp.

   15.30      8,400      8,400      8,400      7,264

KTF-CJ Music Contents Investment Fund (Centurion music 1) (*)

   50.00      —        —        5,000      5,025

SidusFNH-BENEX Cinema Fund1

   6.67      —        —        2,000      2,007
         

  

  

  

          (Won) 56,779    (Won) 47,108    (Won) 69,229    (Won) 57,205
         

  

  

  


(*) KT Freetel consolidated KTFMhows Co,. Ltd. as its total assets as of December 31, 2005 exceeded (Won)7,000 million and excluded Boston Enterprise Partners and KTF-CJ Music Contents Investment Fund from consolidated subsidiaries as KT Freetel isn’t able to exercise the control over them in 2006.

 

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Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Together with KT Corporation’s ownership, KT Freetel is able to exercise significant influence over Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd., Korea IT Fund, Korea Telecom Strategy Fund, ENtoB Corp, Sidus FNH and SidusFNH-BENEX Cinema Fund1.

 

The Company discontinued accounting its investment in Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd. (KDB) under the equity method since the net book value of such investee is below zero. The unrecognized equity losses not reported in the accompanying financial statements are (Won)440 million and (Won)674 million for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

(2) Details of valuation using the equity method for the year ended December 31, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     Beginning
of year


   Acquisition

  

Earnings

(losses)


   

Other

changes(*)


    End
of year


Harex Info Tech Ltd.

   (Won) 2,698    (Won) —      (Won) (796 )   (Won) —       (Won) 1,902

KTFMhows Co., Ltd.

     2,508      —        —         (2,508 )     —  

Korea IT Fund

     30,857      —        (488 )     114       30,483

Korea Telecom Strategy Fund

     2,015      —        (195 )     17       1,837

ENtoB Corp.

     630      —        43       —         673

Boston Enterprise Partners

     —        —        35       7,979       8,014

Sidus FNH Corp.

     8,400      —        (1,136 )     —         7,264

KTF-CJ Music Contents Investment Fund(Centurion music 1)

     —        5,000      25       —         5,025

SidusFNH-BENEX Cinema Fund1

     —        2,000      7       —         2,007
    

  

  


 


 

     (Won) 47,108    (Won) 7,000    (Won) (2,505 )   (Won) 5,602     (Won) 57,205
    

  

  


 


 

 


(*) Other changes are composed of increase (decrease) from changes in consolidated subsidiaries, acquisition (disposal) amounts of investment securities, dividends and the changes in investment securities in capital adjustments.

 

The Company recognized equity in capital adjustment of affiliate of (Won)29 million which were recorded in capital adjustments as of December 31, 2006.

 

(3) Changes in the difference between acquisition cost and net asset value at the acquisition date during 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     Beginning
of year


   Increase

   Amortization

   End of
year


Harex Info Tech Ltd.

   (Won) 1,531    (Won) —      (Won) 383    (Won) 1,148

Sidus FNH Corp.

     5,812      —        1,162      4,650
    

  

  

  

     (Won) 7,343    (Won) —      (Won) 1,545    (Won) 5,798
    

  

  

  

 

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Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(4) The key financials of investees accounted for using the equity method as of and for the year ended December 31, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     Total assets

   Total liabilities

   Sales

   Net income (loss)

 

Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd.

   (Won) 514,971    (Won) 452,695    (Won) 393,905    (Won) 3,553  

Harex Info Tech Ltd.

     4,654      1,095      4,831      (1,770 )

Korea IT Fund

     304,832      —        9,123      1,374  

Korea Telecom Strategy Fund

     18,513      139      355      148  

ENtoB Corp.

     63,032      41,508      336,187      1,572  

Boston Enterprise Partners

     20,791      256      694      82  

Sidus FNH Corp.

     25,002      7,911      38,859      175  

KTF-CJ Music Contents Investment Fund(Centurion music 1)

     10,050      —        —        50  

SidusFNH-BENEX Cinema Fund1

     30,178      77      178      101  

 

9. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:

 

Changes in property and equipment for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

<2005>

 

   

Beginning

of year


  Increase

  Decrease

  End of year

      Acquisition

  Other

  Disposal

  Other

 

Land

  (Won) 121,840   (Won) 104   (Won) 108   (Won) 2,507   (Won) —     (Won) 119,545

Buildings and structures

    308,314     28,318     93,091     6,849     1,908     420,966

Machinery and equipment

    7,187,087     91,737     550,640     353,954     2,477     7,473,033

Vehicles

    11,883     593     180     721     —       11,935

Other

    732,850     33,079     76,007     21,728     —       820,208

Construction in progress

    183,279     575,625     419     392     718,354     40,577
   

 

 

 

 

 

    (Won) 8,545,253   (Won) 729,456   (Won) 720,445   (Won) 386,151   (Won) 722,739   (Won) 8,886,264
   

 

 

 

 

 

   

Beginning

of year


  Increase

  Decrease

  End of year

      Depreciation(*)

      Other    

  Disposal

  Other

 

Less: Accumulated depreciation

                                   

Buildings and structures

  (Won) 57,696   (Won) 13,320   (Won) —     (Won) 704   (Won) 2   (Won) 70,310

Machinery and equipment

    3,373,205     902,693     2     182,808     22     4,093,070

Vehicles

    7,730     1,880     12     461     —       9,161

Other

    491,860     128,251     11     17,877     —       602,245
   

 

 

 

 

 

      3,930,491     1,046,144     25     201,850     24     4,774,786
   

 

 

 

 

 

Accumulated impairment loss

    1,274     1,011     —       —       —       2,285
   

 

 

 

 

 

      3,931,765   (Won) 1,047,155   (Won) 25   (Won) 201,850   (Won) 24     4,777,071
   

 

 

 

 

 

    (Won) 4,613,488                           (Won) 4,109,193
   

                         


(*) (Won)1,638 million of depreciation was transferred to development cost.

 

A-25


Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

<2006>

 

   

Beginning

of year


  Increase

  Decrease

  End of year

      Acquisition

  Other

  Disposal

  Other

 

Land

  (Won) 119,545   (Won) 60   (Won) —     (Won) 305   (Won) —     (Won) 119,300

Buildings and structures

    420,966     362     7,700     1,953     523     426,552

Machinery and equipment

    7,473,033     33,701     1,047,529     100,815     42     8,453,406

Vehicles

    11,935     11     420     221     —       12,145

Other

    820,208     16,111     71,590     29,248     116     878,545

Construction in progress

    40,577     1,182,236     2,369     902     1,129,411     94,869
   

 

 

 

 

 

    (Won) 8,886,264   (Won) 1,232,481   (Won) 1,129,608   (Won) 133,444   (Won) 1,130,092   (Won) 9,984,817
   

 

 

 

 

 

   

Beginning

of year


  Increase

  Decrease

  End of year

      Depreciation(*)

  Other

  Disposal

  Other

 

Less: Accumulated depreciation

                                   

Buildings and structures

  (Won) 70,310   (Won) 14,468   (Won) —     (Won) 429   (Won) 22   (Won) 84,327

Machinery and equipment

    4,093,070     916,236     134     47,047     17     4,962,376

Vehicles

    9,161     1,312     —       152     —       10,321

Other

    602,245     113,505     62     27,653     112     688,047
   

 

 

 

 

 

      4,774,786     1,045,521     196     75,281     151     5,745,071
   

 

 

 

 

 

Accumulated impairment loss

    2,285     1,133     —       —       —       3,418
   

 

 

 

 

 

      4,777,071   (Won) 1,046,654   (Won) 196   (Won) 75,281   (Won) 151     5,748,489
   

 

 

 

 

 

    (Won) 4,109,193                           (Won) 4,236,328
   

                         


(*) (Won)2,232million of depreciation was transferred to development cost.

 

The market value of the Company’s land based on the official price of land (published by the Ministry of Construction and Traffic) is (Won)142,528 million as of December 31, 2006.

 

Depreciable assets are insured against fire and other casualty losses up to (Won)1,042,036 million as of December 31, 2006.

 

10. INTANGIBLES:

 

(1) Changes in intangibles for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

<2005>

 

    

Beginning

of year


    Increase

   Decrease

   End of year

 
       Acquisition

   Other

   Amortization(*)

    Other

  

Intellectual property rights

   (Won) 1,715     (Won) 1,111    (Won) —      (Won) 463     (Won) —      (Won) 2,363  

Facility use rights

     8,361       770      19      1,313       51      7,786  

Frequency use rights

     1,115,996       —        —        94,622       —        1,021,374  

Development costs

     9,758       26,605      444      16,768       3,841      16,198  

Other

     20,016       3,514      6      7,056       229      16,251  

Negative goodwill

     (1,943 )     —        —        (648 )     —        (1,295 )
    


 

  

  


 

  


     (Won) 1,153,903     (Won) 32,000    (Won) 469    (Won) 119,574     (Won) 4,121    (Won) 1,062,677  
    


 

  

  


 

  


 

The Company recognized impairment loss on intangibles of (Won)3,762 million.


(*) (Won)738 million of amortization was transferred to development cost.

 

A-26


Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

<2006>

 

    

Beginning

of year


    Increase

   Decrease

   End of year

 
       Acquisition

   Other

   Amortization (*)

    Other

  

Intellectual property rights

   (Won) 2,363     (Won) 1,718    (Won) —      (Won) 585     (Won) —      (Won) 3,496  

Facility use rights

     7,786       1,310      —        1,456       43      7,597  

Frequency use rights

     1,021,374       —        —        93,528       —        927,846  

Development costs

     16,198       25,946      691      24,101       9,047      9,687  

Other

     16,251       12,240      —        8,594       164      19,733  

Negative goodwill

     (1,295 )     —        —        (648 )     —        (647 )
    


 

  

  


 

  


     (Won) 1,062,677     (Won) 41,214    (Won) 691    (Won) 127,616     (Won) 9,254    (Won) 967,712  
    


 

  

  


 

  


 

The Company recognized impairment loss on intangibles of (Won)9,047 million.


(*) (Won)618 million of amortization was transferred to development cost.

 

(2) Ordinary development costs of (Won)9,652 million and (Won)7,303 million were charged to expense for the years ended December 31, 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

(3) On December 15, 2000, KT ICOM acquired the license to provide third generation mobile services utilizing 2GHz frequency band (“IMT-2000 service”) with W-CDMA technology. KT ICOM paid (Won)650 billion of the total license fee of (Won)1,300 billion on March 20, 2001 and the remaining balance was required to be paid including interest for the period from 2007 to 2011. On December 4, 2001, MIC granted the license to KT ICOM and assigned the related frequency band, giving KT ICOM the right to provide IMT-2000 services using W-CDMA technology for 15 years from that date.

 

On March 6, 2003, KT ICOM was merged into the Company, and the Company started to provide IMT-2000 service on December 28, 2003.

 

11. BORROWINGS:

 

(1) Short-term borrowings as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions, JPY in millions, EUR in thousands, U.S dollars in thousands):

 

     Interest rate
per annum (%)


             
     2006

    2005

    2006

 

Discounted promissory notes

   4.45~5.38     (Won) 26,564     (Won) 28,687  

Usance letter of credit

   LIBOR+0.5 %     14,415       17,910  
           (US$  14,230 )   (US$ 19,267 )
     LIBOR +0.5 %     3,315       1,897  
           (JPY 385 )     (JPY 243 )
     LIBOR +0.5 %     —         1,544  
             —       (EUR 1,263 )

Other

   4.85       5,000       10,000  
          


 


           (Won) 49,294     (Won) 60,038  
          


 


 

A-27


Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(2) Long-term debt as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

    

Interest rate

per annum (%)


      
     2006

   2005

   2006

 

General loans

   5.80~6.15    (Won) 10,000    (Won) 30,000  

Less : Current portion

          —        (10,000 )
         

  


          (Won) 10,000    (Won) 20,000  
         

  


 

Payment schedules for the Company’s long-term debt as of December 31, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

Year


   Amount

2007

   (Won) 10,000

2008

     10,000

2009

     10,000
    

     (Won) 30,000
    

 

12. DEBENTURES:

 

(1) General debentures as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions, JPY in millions):

 

         

Interest rate

per annum (%)


            
    

Due date


   2006

   2005

    2006

 

20th

   Feb. 9, 2006    —      (Won) 300,000     (Won) —    

23rd

   Apr. 20, 2006    —        40,280       —    
               JPY (4,695 )     —    

42nd

   Nov. 14, 2007    5.94      200,000       200,000  

44th

   Feb. 19, 2009    5.66      360,000       360,000  

45th

   Mar. 15, 2008    5.24      320,000       320,000  

46th

   May 10, 2007    4.61      300,000       300,000  

47-1st

   July 13, 2009    4.95      230,000       230,000  

47-2nd

   July 12, 2011    5.32      70,000       70,000  

48th

   Feb. 15, 2010    5.31      200,000       200,000  
              


 


               (Won) 2,020,280     (Won) 1,680,000  
               JPY (4,695 )     —    
              


 


Less: Discount on debentures

               (3,723 )     (2,077 )
              


 


            2,016,557       1,677,923  
              


 


Less: Current portion

               (339,862 )     (499,764 )
              


 


          (Won) 1,676,695     (Won) 1,178,159  
              


 


 

A-28


Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(2) Payment schedules for the Company’s debentures as of December 31, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

Year


   Amount

2007

   (Won) 500,000

2008

     320,000

2009

     590,000

2010

     200,000

2011

     70,000
    

     (Won) 1,680,000
    

 

13. DERIVATIVES:

 

The Company has entered into currency swap contract and interest rate swap contract with Korea Exchange Bank to hedge economically the risk exposure of fluctuations in the fair value of certain short-term borrowings and interests (denominated in US dollars) due to the changes in the related foreign currency exchange rate. The currency swap contracts as of December 31, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

Term


    

Type


    

Contract

amount


    

Swap amount


    

Contract rate


    

Fair value


2006.5.23-2007.5.18

     Currency swap      US$ 10,525,208      (Won)10,000      US$ 950.10/(Won)      (Won)216

 

The Company will repay (Won)10,000 million instead of US$ 10,525,208 on maturity date under the currency swap contract. In relation to the above currency swap contracts, the Company recognized the related loss on valuation of currency swap of (Won)216 million for the year ended 2006 as other expense.

 

The interest swap contracts as of December 31, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

Term


 

Type


 

Contract

amount


 

Interest rate buy ((Won))


 

Interest rate sell (US$)


2006.5.23-2007.5.18

  Interest rate swap   US$ 10,525,208   91 days CD + 0.07%   3 month Libor + 0.40%
       

(Won)10,000

       

 

14. LONG-TERM ACCOUNTS PAYABLE-OTHER:

 

Long-term accounts payable-other is related to the purchase of frequency use right and required to be paid including applicable interest from 2007 to 2011.

 

Long-term accounts payable-other as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 is stated at net present value of future cash flows, calculated using the effective interest rate of 9.93 percent at the time of receipt of frequency use license. The Company’s long-term accounts payable-other is as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2005

    2006

 

Long-term accounts payable-other

   (Won) 650,000     (Won) 650,000  

Less : discount (*)

     (90,460 )     (67,007 )
    


 


       559,540       582,993  

Less : Current portion

     —         (89,116 )
    


 


     (Won) 559,540     (Won) 493,877  
    


 



(*) Current portion of (Won)884 million is included in 2006

 

A-29


Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Maturities of the Company's long-term accounts payable-other as of December 31, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

Year


   Amount

2007

   (Won) 90,000

2008

     110,000

2009

     130,000

2010

     150,000

2011

     170,000
    

     (Won) 650,000
    

 

15. RESERVE FOR LIABILITIES:

 

(1) The Company has accounted for the call bonus mileage and warranty, which the Company is obliged to pay to its customers, as reserve for liabilities. Warranties related to sales of handset are one year and are recorded as liability based on the management’s estimate according to the historical experience. Changes in reserve for liabilities for the year ended December 31, 2006 are summarized as follows (Won in millions):

 

Year


   Call bonus

    Warranty

 

Beginning of year

   (Won) 18,896     (Won) 2,835  

Payment

     (2,929 )     (6,329 )

Provision

     298       6,999  
    


 


       16,265       3,505  

Less : current portion

     (6,800 )     (3,505 )
    


 


     (Won) 9,465     (Won) —    
    


 


 

(2) Call bonus mileages provided by the Company expires in 5 years from the date when call bonus mileages are earned. The Company expects its call bonus mileages to be used as follows (Won in millions):

 

Year


   Nominal
amount


   Present
value


2007

   (Won) 7,011    (Won) 6,800

2008

     4,610      4,239

2009

     3,012      2,626

2010

     1,954      1,615

2011

     1,257      985
    

  

     (Won) 17,844    (Won) 16,265
    

  

 

16. SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:

 

(1) Capital stock

 

The Company has authorized 400,000,000 shares of (Won)5,000 par value common stock and issued 195,701,091 shares as of December 31, 2006.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

The changes in capital stock for the year ended December 31, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions except par value):

 

Date


  

Cause of changes


  

Par value

(won)


  

Number of

shares


    Capital stock

   Capital surplus

 

Beginning of year

      (Won) 5,000    201,208,091     (Won) 1,044,181    (Won) 1,730,948  

August 2, 2006

  

Settlement of paid-in

capital increase

     —      —         —        (3,171 )

December 28, 2006

  

Retirement of

treasury stock

          (5,507,000 )     —        —    

December 31, 2006

   Changes in consolidated subsidiaries      —      —         —        (1,132 )
                

 

  


End of year

               195,701,091     (Won) 1,044,181    (Won) 1,726,645  
                

 

  


 

(2) Treasury stock

 

In 2005, the Company reissued 225,308 shares of treasury stock to the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”). The fair value of such treasury stocks at the time of their reissuance totaled (Won)5,160 million and is recorded as salaries and wages. The difference between the acquisition cost and the fair value amounting to (Won)2,478 million is recorded as capital adjustments.

 

As of December 31, 2006, the Company holds 61,273 shares of treasury (Won in millions).

 

Year


   Number of
shares


    Amount

 

Beginning of year

   61,247     (Won) 2,076  

Acquisition

   5,507,026       164,885  

Retirement

   (5,507,000 )     (164,884 )
    

 


End of year

   61,273     (Won) 2,077  
    

 


 

(3) Stock Option Plan

 

The Company entered into stock option agreements with the Chief Executive Officer and senior managers. The stock option will be vested after two years from the date of grant and can be exercised for five years from the date when they are vested. Upon the exercise of stock options, the Company will issue its common stocks.

 

The changes in stock options for the year ended December 31, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

Date


   Number
of shares


   Weighted average
exercise price


Outstanding at beginning of year

   512,513    (Won) 31,899

Granted

   —        —  

Forfeited or expired

   —        —  

Outstanding at end of year

   512,513    (Won) 31,899

Exercisable at end of year

   383,713    (Won) 32,301

 

The details of the outstanding stock options as of December 31, 20006 are as follows:

 

Grant Date


  

Employee


   Number
of shares


   Exercise
price/
share


   Methods

   Exercise period

2001.3.29

   Former CEO    18,000    (Won) 41,273    Equity settled type    2004.3.29~2009.3.28,

2002.3.25

   Senior managers    44,800      45,178       2005.3.25~2010.3.24

2003.9.8

   CEO, Senior managers    320,913      30,000       2005.9.9~2010.9.8

2005.3.4

   Senior managers    128,800      30,700       2007.3.5~2012.3.4

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

The Company values stock options granted based on the fair value method (see Note 2). Total compensation expense of (Won)5,316 million is allocated over the vesting period, and the compensation expense charged to operations for the year ended December 31, 2006 are (Won)304 million. As of December 31, 2006, approximately 19,299,709 shares of common stocks have been reserved for issuance under the stock option plan.

 

The principal assumptions made in relation to estimation of compensation expense for the stock options are as follows:

 

     1st

   2nd

   3rd

   4th

Risk-free interest rate (%)

     6.12      6.44      4.31      4.18

Expected life (years)

     3      3      3      3

Expected forfeitures per year (%)

     —        —        —        —  

Volatility (%)

     122.33      97.05      63.14      37.33

Fair value per option

   (Won) 28,417    (Won) 30,565    (Won) 8,812    (Won) 4,715

Total compensation cost (Won in millions)

   (Won) 512    (Won) 1,369    (Won) 2,828    (Won) 607

 

17. INCOME TAX AND DEFERRED INCOME TAXES:

 

(1) The statutory corporate income tax rate, including resident surtax, applicable to the Company is approximately 29.7 percent in 2004, and 27.5 percent in 2005 and 2006. Income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 is as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2004

    2005

    2006

 

Income before income tax

   (Won) 315,588     (Won) 604,797     (Won) 515,827  

Adjustments:

                        

Permanent differences

     17,458       (2,159 )     48,742  

Temporary differences, net

     20,402       89,107       (64,295 )
    


 


 


       37,860       86,948       (15,553 )
    


 


 


Taxable income before tax loss carryforward

     353,448       691,745       500,274  

Tax loss carryforward

     (109,860 )     (94,982 )     (13 )
    


 


 


Taxable income

     243,588       596,763       500,261  

Tax rate (%)

     29.7       27.5       27.5  
    


 


 


Tax calculated on taxable income

     72,346       164,109       137,481  

Tax credit

     (28,402 )     (55,015 )     (47,556 )
    


 


 


Income tax currently payable

     43,944       109,094       89,925  

Decrease (Increase) in deferred income taxes:

                        

Temporary differences

     (4,486 )     (24,975 )     16,689  

Utilization of accumulated tax losses carried forward

     (13,750 )     13,750       4  

Utilization of accumulated tax credit carried forward

     (142 )     (39,016 )     (3,230 )

Income tax expense directly reflected to capital

     —         (2,343 )     (369 )
    


 


 


Income tax expense

   (Won) 25,566     (Won) 56,510     (Won) 103,019  
    


 


 


 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(2) Changes in deferred income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2004

    2005

    2006

 

Beginning of year

   (Won) 97,464     (Won) 114,444     (Won) 163,931  

Increase(Decrease)

     18,377       49,487       (13,422 )

Decrease from changes in consolidated subsidiaries

     (1,397 )     —         —    
    


 


 


       114,444       163,931       150,509  

Less: current portion

     (74,953 )     (99,576 )     (107,956 )
    


 


 


End of year

   (Won) 39,491     (Won) 64,355     (Won) 42,553  
    


 


 


 

(3) The tax effects of each type of temporary difference that gave rise to a significant portion of the deferred tax assets and liabilities in 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2005

   2006

Current

             

Allowance for doubtful accounts

   (Won) 28,007    (Won) 36,122

Accrued expense

     14,386      9,248

Inventory

     7,698      8,010

Tax and dues

     6,869      5,514

Tax credit carryforwards

     30,063      40,114

Other

     12,553      8,948
    

  

     (Won) 99,576    (Won) 107,956
    

  

Non-current

             

Long-term investment securities

   (Won) 18,575    (Won) 225

Provision for severance indemnities

     7,149      7,694

Tax credit carryforwards

     34,969      28,171

Other

     3,662      6,463
    

  

     (Won) 64,355    (Won) 42,553
    

  

 

18. OPERATING REVENUE AND EXPENSES:

 

(1) Operating revenue for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 consist of the following (Won in millions):

 

     2004

   2005

   2006

PCS service

   (Won) 4,695,733    (Won) 5,076,026    (Won) 5,319,402

Sales of PCS handsets

     1,247,159      1,044,463      1,287,939
    

  

  

     (Won) 5,942,892    (Won) 6,120,489    (Won) 6,607,341
    

  

  

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(2) Operating expenses for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are summarized below (Won in millions).

 

     2004

   2005

   2006

Salaries and wages

   (Won) 175,541    (Won) 180,242    (Won) 176,922

Provision for severance indemnities

     12,485      14,968      14,858

Employee welfare

     29,665      31,308      35,119

Rent

     114,220      114,971      135,828

Lease

     61,307      61,307      32,601

Commissions

     439,524      414,632      471,363

Depreciation

     996,044      1,043,022      1,041,066

Amortization

     108,243      116,947      126,465

Tax and dues (*)

     45,400      44,363      55,319

Interconnection charges

     506,982      603,160      679,462

Leased line charges

     357,257      360,655      356,129

Ordinary development costs

     9,583      9,652      7,303

Sales promotion

     180,574      162,040      330,687

Sales commissions

     718,089      721,154      812,095

Advertisements

     135,663      114,711      121,186

Bad debt

     25,485      54,375      89,240

Water and electricity

     49,686      54,900      62,230

Communications

     28,907      30,485      27,429

Repairs and maintenance

     58,456      74,340      78,723

Cost of PCS handset sales

     1,268,367      1,000,824      1,174,261

Other

     81,267      84,689      96,395
    

  

  

     (Won) 5,402,745    (Won) 5,292,745    (Won) 5,924,681
    

  

  


(*) Amounts include fines and penalties of (Won)9,500 million, (Won)10,300 million and (Won)22,600 million related to handset subsidies for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006, respectively.

 

19. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS:

 

(1) Related parties are as follows:

 

   

Company


Parent company

  KT Corporation

Affiliates

 

Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd, Hares Info Tech Ltd,

Korea IT Fund, Korea Telecom Strategy Fund, ENtoB Corp,

Boston Enterprise Partners, Sidus FNH Corp, KTF-CJ Music Contents Investment Fund, SidusFNH-BENEX Cinema Fund

Subsidiaries of the parent company

 

KT Networks Co., Ltd, KT Hitel Co., Ltd, KT Powertel Co., LTd,

Korea Telecom Japan, KT Submarine Co., LTd, KT Linkus Co., Ltd,

KT Commerce, Inc, KT Rental Co., Ltd, KTCC Co., Ltd, NTC Co., LTd

Internal corporate Venture Fund 1,2, KTAI Co., Ltd, KTPI Co., Ltd, Olive Nine Co., Ltd, Telecop Service Co., Ltd, KT Capital Co., Ltd

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(2) Transactions with related parties for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

Revenues:

 

    

Transaction


   2004

   2005

   2006

KT Corporation

  

Interconnection charges and others

   (Won) 631,544    (Won) 779,524    (Won) 730,504

KT Networks

  

Interconnection charges and others

     8,772      2,348      2,658

KT Hitel

  

     43      50      127

Others

  

     1,478      1,085      2,453
         

  

  

          (Won) 641,837    (Won) 783,007    (Won) 735,742
         

  

  

 

Expenses:

 

    

Transaction


   2004

   2005

   2006

KT Corporation

  

Leased line charges and others

   (Won)482,900    (Won) 512,426    (Won) 424,533

KT Networks

  

Interconnection charges and others

   8,258      7,671      4,513

KT Hitel

  

   24,425      26,833      15,884

Others

  

   2,190      1,059      7,025
         
  

  

          (Won)517,773    (Won) 547,989    (Won) 451,955
         
  

  

 

  (3) Receivables and payables with related parties as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     Receivables

   Payables

     2005

   2006

   2005

   2006

KT Corporation

   (Won) 239,432    (Won) 176,531    (Won) 41,878    (Won) 85,421

KT Networks

     43      560      304      848

KT Hitel

     20      17      3,561      4,222

Others

     19      276      240      930
    

  

  

  

     (Won) 239,514    (Won) 177,384    (Won) 45,983    (Won) 91,421
    

  

  

  

 

20. SIGNIFICANT CONTRACTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES:

 

(1) In 1997, the Company entered into an air-time resale agreement with KT Corporation whereby KT Corporation provides wireless services using the Company’s telecommunications network. As a compensation for providing telecommunications network, the Company receives certain amount of fee calculated based on the outgoing calls generated from KT Corporation’s subscribers multiplied by a rate per minute.

 

(2) As of December 31, 2006, the Company is involved in 26 lawsuits as the defendant for total claims of (Won)11,018 million and has filed 16 lawsuits as the plaintiff for the total claims of (Won)5,919 million. The Company’s management believes that the outcome of these lawsuits will not have a material impact on the financial statements.

 

21. SEGMENT INFORMATION:

 

The Company has two reportable operating segments: PCS service and sales of PCS handsets. The segments are managed separately based on the difference in products and services. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in Note 2.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Details of the Company’s business segment operations for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

2004


   PCS service

   PCS handsets

    Total

Operating revenue

   (Won) 5,830,818    (Won) 112,074     (Won) 5,942,892

Operating income

     528,987      11,160       540,147

Ordinary income

     308,610      6,978       315,588

Interest income

     12,691      141       12,832

Interest expense

     220,606      2,082       222,688

Income tax expense

     24,709      857       25,566

Depreciation

     992,900      3,144       996,044

Property and equipment, net (*)

     4,417,615      12,594       4,430,209

Capital expenditures

     945,623      9,496       955,119

2005


   PCS service

   PCS handset

    Total

Operating revenue

   (Won) 6,051,789    (Won) 68,700     (Won) 6,120,489

Operating income

     824,796      2,948       827,744

Ordinary income

     610,653      (5,856 )     604,797

Interest income

     9,406      —         9,406

Interest expense

     184,695      2,006       186,701

Income tax expense

     63,650      (7,140 )     56,510

Depreciation

     1,037,761      5,261       1,043,022

Property and equipment, net (*)

     4,050,656      17,960       4,068,616

Capital expenditures

     712,704      14,819       727,523

2006


   PCS service

   PCS handsets

    Total

Operating revenue

   (Won) 6,507,350    (Won) 99,991     (Won) 6,607,341

Operating income

     668,747      13,913       682,660

Ordinary income

     513,770      2,057       515,827

Interest income

     26,213      —         26,213

Interest expense

     142,189      3,055       145,244

Income tax expense

     102,068      951       103,019

Depreciation

     1,034,083      6,983       1,041,066

Property and equipment, net (*)

     4,121,590      19,869       4,141,459

Capital expenditures

     1,217,965      14,516       1,232,481

(*) Construction in progresses is not included.

 

22. RECONCILIATION TO ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES GENERALLY ACCEPTED IN THE UNITED STATES:

 

Accounting practices used by the Company in preparing the accompanying financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the Republic of Korea (“Korean GAAP”), but do not conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). The significant differences applicable to the Company are described below. Other differences do not have a significant effect on either net income or shareholders’ equity.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(1) Restatement of previously reported US GAAP information

 

In the process of preparing the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2006, the Company identified errors in its reconciliation to US GAAP as of and for the year ended December 31, 2005. The errors relate to the application of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 141 Business Combination (“SFAS No. 141”) and Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 109 Accounting for Income Tax (“SFAS No. 109”) in connection with the Company’s merger with KTM.Com Co., Ltd. in 2001 (the “Merger”).

 

As stated in Note 22 (9), under U.S. GAAP, assets and liabilities related to the Merger were transferred from KTM.Com Co., Ltd. to the Company at fair value and the difference between the fair value of capital stock issued and the fair value of net assets transferred was recorded as intangible assets and goodwill (for which there was no tax base). The Company also recorded deferred tax liabilities for the goodwill and intangible assets against its additional paid in capital. However, under SFAS No. 109, no deferred taxes should be recognized for such goodwill. In addition, under SFAS 141, the deferred tax liabilities recorded for intangible assets should have been recorded against goodwill and not against additional paid in capital. As a result, the US GAAP amounts previously reported as of December 31, 2005 have been restated as follows (Won in million):

 

     2005

Shareholder’s equity based on U.S. GAAP as previously reported

   (Won) 4,649,584

Effect of restatement:

      

Adjustment for correction of errors in connection with Merger

     343,960
    

Shareholder’s equity based on U.S. GAAP as restated

   (Won) 4,993,544
    

 

     As previously
reported


   Effect of
restatement


    As restated

Current assets

   (Won) 2,823,851    (Won) —       (Won) 2,823,851

Non-current assets

     6,535,881      173,386       6,709,267
    

  


 

Total assets

   (Won) 9,359,732    (Won) 173,386     (Won) 9,533,118
    

  


 

Current liabilities

   (Won) 1,774,570    (Won) —       (Won) 1,774,570

Long-term liabilities

     2,927,920      (170,574 )     2,757,346

Minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries

     7,658      —         7,658
    

  


 

Total liabilities and Minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries

   (Won) 4,710,148    (Won) (170,574 )   (Won) 4,539,574
    

  


 

 

(2) Consolidated Subsidiary

 

Under Korean GAAP, as explained in Note 1(2) to the consolidated financial statements, investments in subsidiaries and controlled entities are consolidated, except for companies with total assets as of the prior year end of less than (Won)7,000 million. Generally, substantial control is deemed to exist when the investor is the largest shareholder and owns more than 30 percent of total outstanding voting stock. However, U.S. GAAP generally requires that all majority-owned subsidiaries be consolidated and that any entity of which the Company owns twenty to fifty percent of total outstanding voting stock not be consolidated; rather that entity should be accounted for under the equity method.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, if a business enterprise has a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity, which is defined by FASB Interpretation No. 46 Revised ("FIN 46R"), the assets, liabilities and results of the

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

activities of the variable interest entity should be included in the consolidated financial statements with those of the business enterprise. Under the Korean GAAP, there is no specific provision for the accounting treatment of variable interest entities.

 

(3) Capitalization of foreign currency translation gain (loss)

 

As explained in Note 2, under previous Korean GAAP, certain unrealized foreign currency translation gains and losses were excluded from the results of operations and included in the cost of property and equipment. However, under U.S. GAAP, all unrealized foreign currency translation gains and losses on monetary assets and liabilities are to be included in the current year’s results of operations.

 

The amounts of foreign currency translation gains and losses included in property and equipment under previous Korean GAAP were adjusted to comply with U.S. GAAP.

 

(4) Interest Capitalization

 

As explained in Note 2, the Company elected, under Korean GAAP, starting from January 1, 2003, to no longer capitalize interest expense. However, under U.S. GAAP, the Company’s policy is to capitalize interest that would have theoretically been avoided had expenditures not been made for assets, which require a period of time to get them ready for their intended uses.

 

(5) Licensing Cost

 

Under Korean GAAP, the licensing cost paid by the initial shareholders to obtain the operating licenses prior to the establishment of the Company were not recorded in the accounts of the Company.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, licensing costs were accounted for as an intangible asset and capital surplus at the time of establishment of the Company.

 

Since the Company determined the useful life of licensing cost of second generation (“2G”) service to be indefinite, the Company determined not to amortize the related costs until December 31, 2005.

 

On December 31, 2005, the Korea Communication Act (“Act”) was revised, which is effective July 1, 2006. Under the Act, the right of the use of frequency for second generation (“2G”) will be expired by June, 2011. As such, the Company is amortizing licensing cost of 2G of (Won)162,708 million over remaining useful life and amortization expenses for the year ended 2006 is (Won)29,583 million.

 

(6) Deferred Charges

 

Deferred charges in intangibles consist primarily of development costs. The development costs which are recoverable from future earnings are deferred under Korean GAAP.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, development costs are charged to expenses when incurred and are classified as operating expenses.

 

(7) Revenue Recognition

 

Under Korean GAAP, activation fees are recorded as revenue when billed and the related direct incremental acquisition costs are expensed as incurred.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, such amounts are deferred and recognized over the period of the customer relationship.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(8) Handset Subsidies to Long-time Mobile Subscribers

 

Under Korean GAAP, handset subsidies are recorded as operating expenses. Under US GAAP, such amounts are recorded as reduction of revenue.

 

(9) Merger with KTM.Com Co., Ltd.

 

Under Korean GAAP, as KT Freetel and KTM.Com Co., Ltd. were subsidiaries of KT Corporation prior to merger, assets and liabilities were transferred from KTM.Com Co., Ltd. to KT Freetel at book value and the difference between the par value of capital stock issued and the value of net assets transferred was recorded in the capital surplus account.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, as KT Freetel and KTM.Com Co., Ltd. were not subsidiaries but equity method investees of KT Corporation prior to merger, assets and liabilities were transferred from KTM.Com Co., Ltd. to KT Freetel at fair value and the difference between the fair value of capital stock issued and the fair value of net assets transferred was recorded as intangible assets and goodwill.

 

The Company classified the intangible assets into three components: subscriber base, licensing cost and goodwill.

 

(10) Merger with KT ICOM

 

Under Korean GAAP, as KT Freetel and KT ICOM were subsidiaries of KT Corporation prior to the merger, assets and liabilities were transferred from KT ICOM to KT Freetel at book value as shown in the consolidated financial statements of KT Corporation and the difference between the par value of capital stock issued and the value of net assets transferred was recorded in the capital surplus account.

 

The merger was not accounted for as a merger of entities under common control as KT Freetel and KT ICOM are not subsidiaries of KT Corporation under U.S. GAAP.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, assets and liabilities were transferred from KT ICOM to KT Freetel at fair value. As the fair value of net assets transferred amounting to (Won)228,244 million exceed the fair value of capital stock issued amounting to (Won)190,755 million, the non-current assets of (Won)37,489 million were reduced proportionally.

 

(11) Goodwill and Other Intangibles

 

Under Korean GAAP, the purchase price over the fair value of net assets being acquired was recorded as goodwill and it is amortized over 20 years. Impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the fair value.

 

Under SFAS No. 142—“Goodwill and Intangible Assets”, intangible assets with finite lives continue to be amortized over their useful economic lives. Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives are not amortized, but tested for impairment, at least annually.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

In accordance with SFAS No. 142, the goodwill and intangibles acquired from KTM.Com and KT ICOM and amortization expense for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

          Initial amount

   Beginning of
year


   Amortization expense

            2004

   2005

   2006

KTM .Com

   Goodwill    (Won) 753,065    (Won) 702,861    (Won) —      (Won) —      (Won) —  
    

Subscriber base

     605,563      —        162,204      54,068      —  
    

Licensing cost

     83,875      80,208      —        —        14,583

KT ICOM

   Frequency use right      1,194,045      1,000,212      91,945      94,134      89,283

 

This goodwill and licensing cost were amortized over the estimated periods to be benefited until 2001 before the adoption of SFAS No. 142.

 

Since the Company determined the useful life of licensing cost of second generation (“2G”) service to be indefinite, the Company determined not to amortize the related costs until December 31, 2005.

 

On December 31, 2005, the Korea Communication Act (“Act”) was revised, which is effective July 1, 2006. Under the Act, the right of the use of frequency for second generation (“2G”) will be expired by June, 2011. As such, the Company will amortize licensing cost of 2G of (Won)80,208 million over remaining useful life.

 

(12) Disposal of Trade Accounts and Notes Receivable

 

Under Korean GAAP, the transaction between KT Freetel and Shinhan Bank Trust is recorded as a sale of trade accounts and notes receivable. Under U.S. GAAP, this transaction does not qualify for sale accounting and as such, the transaction is classified as borrowings.

 

(13) Investor-level goodwill

 

Under Korean GAAP, for investments in affiliated companies accounted for using the equity method, the excess of acquisition cost of the affiliates over the Company’s share of their net assets at the acquisition date is being amortized by the straight-line method over its estimated useful life. Under U.S. GAAP, the investor-level goodwill is not amortized, but instead tested for impairment in accordance with APB No. 18. The investor-level goodwill which is recorded only at the investor’s financial statements represents the excess of the acquisition cost of equity method investees over the fair value of investor’s share of net identifiable assets acquired.

 

(14) Additional Equity Investment in Subsidiaries

 

Under Korean GAAP, when additional interest is acquired after acquiring a majority interest in a subsidiary, the differences between the Company’s acquisition cost of the additional interest and the corresponding carrying amount of the acquired additional interest in a subsidiary is presented as an adjustment to capital surplus. Under U.S. GAAP, the cost of an additional interest would be allocated based on the fair value of net assets at the time the additional interest is acquired, with the excess allocated to goodwill.

 

(15) Minority Interests in Consolidated Subsidiary

 

Under Korean GAAP, minority interests in consolidated subsidiaries are presented as a component of shareholders’ equity in the consolidated balance sheets. Under U.S. GAAP, minority interests in consolidated subsidiaries are not included in shareholders’ equity; rather, it is presented between liabilities and shareholders’ equity item in the consolidated balance sheets.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(16) Accrued Severance Benefits

 

Under the Korean labor law, employees with more than one year of service are entitled to receive a lump sum payment upon voluntary or involuntary termination of their employment. The amount of the benefit is based on the terminated employee’s length of employment and rate of pay prior to termination. Korean GAAP requires that a company record the vested benefit obligation at the balance sheet date assuming all employees were to terminate their employment as of that date. The change in the vested benefit obligation during the year is recorded as the current year’s severance expense.

 

Under US GAAP, the accrual for severance indemnities is also computed as if all employees were to terminate at the balance sheet date as allowed under EITF 88-1, “Determination of Vested Benefit Obligation for a Defined Benefit Pension Plan.”

 

The Company expects to pay the following future benefits over next 10 years to its employees upon their normal retirement age (Won in million):

 

Year


   Amount

Prior to 2014

   (Won) —  

2014

     529

2015

     1,680

2017

     1,635
    

     (Won) 3,844
    

 

The above amounts were determined based on the employees’ current salary rates and the number of service years that will be accumulated upon their expected retirement date. These amounts do not include amounts that might be paid to employees that will cease working with the Company before their normal retirement age.

 

(17) Comprehensive Income

 

Under Korean GAAP, there is no requirement to present comprehensive income. U.S. GAAP requires the presentation of comprehensive income and its components in the financial statements. Comprehensive income includes all changes in shareholders’ equity during a period except those resulting from investment by, or distribution to owners, including certain items not included in the current year’s results of operations.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Comprehensive income for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 and accumulated other comprehensive income balance as of December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 is summarized as follows:

 

     Korean Won

 
     2004

    2005

    2006

 
     (In millions)  

Net income as adjusted in accordance with U.S. GAAP

   (Won) 173,856     (Won) 503,798     (Won) 402,991  
    


 


 


Other comprehensive income, net of tax:

                        

Foreign currency translation adjustments

     —         (89 )     24  

Unrealized gain (loss) on investments, net of tax of (Won)697 million in 2004, (Won)990 million in 2005 and (Won)1,860 million in 2006

     (1,649 )     5,989       4,904  

Realized gain (loss) included in earnings due to sale of investment securities, net of tax of (Won)1,240 million in 2005 and (Won)1,524 million in 2006

     —         (3,268 )     (4,017 )
    


 


 


Comprehensive income as adjusted in accordance with U.S. GAAP

   (Won) 172,207     (Won) 506,430     (Won) 403,902  
    


 


 


Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) balance

                        

Foreign currency translation adjustments

   (Won) —       (Won) (89 )   (Won) (65 )

Unrealized gain (loss) on investments (*)

     3,537       6,258       7,145  
    


 


 


     (Won) 3,537     (Won) 6,169     (Won) 7,080  
    


 


 



(*) A portion of minority interest was excluded.

 

(18) New Accounting Pronouncements

 

In July 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (FIN 48). FIN 48 requires the use of a two-step approach for recognizing and measuring tax benefits taken or expected to be taken in a tax return and disclosures regarding uncertainties in income tax positions. We are required to adopt FIN 48 effective January 1, 2007. The cumulative effect of initially adopting FIN 48 will be recorded as an adjustment to opening retained earnings in the year of adoption and will be presented separately. Only tax positions that meet the more likely than not recognition threshold at the effective date may be recognized upon adoption of FIN 48. We are currently evaluating the impact this new standard will have on our future results of operations and financial position.

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, Fair Value Measurement (SFAS No. 157). SFAS No. 157 expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles and establishes a hierarchy that categorizes and prioritizes the sources to be used to estimate fair value. We are required to adopt SFAS No. 157 effective January 1, 2008 on a prospective basis. We are currently evaluating the impact this new standard will have on our future results of operations and financial position.

 

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities—Including an amendment of FASB Statement No. 115” (“SFAS No. 159”). SFAS No. 159 permits entities to elect to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value. Upon adoption of SFAS No. 159, an entity may elect the fair value option for eligible items that exist at the adoption date. Subsequent to the initial adoption, the election of the fair value option should only be made at initial recognition of the asset or liability or upon a remeasurement event that gives rise to new-basis accounting. SFAS No. 159 does not affect any existing accounting literature that requires certain assets and liabilities to be carried at fair value nor does it eliminate disclosure requirements included in other accounting standards. SFAS No. 159

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 and may be adopted earlier but only if the adoption is in the first quarter of the fiscal year. We are currently assessing whether adoption of SFAS 159 will have an impact on our financial statements.

 

(19) Effect on Net Earnings and Shareholders’ Equity

 

The effects of the significant adjustments to net earnings and shareholders’ equity that are required if U.S. GAAP were applied instead of Korean GAAP are summarized as follows (Won in millions, except per share amounts):

 

     2004

    2005

    2006

 

Net income under Korean GAAP

   (Won) 287,863     (Won) 547,297     (Won) 412,001  
    


 


 


Adjustments:

                        

(3) Capitalization of foreign currency translation gain (loss), net

     819       820       (228 )

(4) Interest capitalization

     12,403       (1,050 )     (1,881 )

(5) Licensing cost

     —         —         (29,583 )

(6) Deferred charges (*1)

     (3,693 )     (5,058 )     4,809  

(7) Revenue recognition

     (1,075 )     (3,348 )     (15,290 )

(10) Merger with KT ICOM

     2,884       2,884       6,640  

(11) Amortization of subscriber base

     (162,204 )     (54,068 )     —    

(12) Disposal of trade accounts and notes receivable

     (6,385 )     (179 )     (147 )

(13) Investor-level goodwill

     —         —         1,928  

Deferred tax effect of U.S. GAAP adjustments

     43,244       16,500       24,742  
    


 


 


       (114,007 )     (43,499 )     (9,010 )
    


 


 


Adjusted net income under U.S. GAAP

   (Won) 173,856     (Won) 503,798     (Won) 402,991  
    


 


 


Basic earnings per share

   (Won) 946     (Won) 2,774     (Won) 2,004  
    


 


 


Diluted earnings per share

   (Won) 946     (Won) 2,774     (Won) 2,004  
    


 


 


 

    

2005

As restated


    2006

 

Shareholders’ equity under Korean GAAP

   (Won) 4,206,722     (Won) 4,320,151  
    


 


Adjustments:

                

(3) Capitalization of foreign currency translation gain (loss), net

     (607 )     (835 )

(4) Interest capitalization

     68,739       66,858  

(5) Licensing cost

     162,708       133,125  

(6) Deferred charges

     (11,961 )     (7,152 )

(7) Revenue recognition

     (6,166 )     (21,456 )

(9) Merger with KTM.Com (*2)

     688,653       688,653  

(10) Merger with KT ICOM

     (31,481 )     (40,679 )

(12) Disposal of trade accounts and notes receivable

     147       —    

(13) Investor-level goodwill

     —         1,928  

(14) Additional equity investment in subsidiaries

     —         1,132  

(15) Minority interests in consolidated subsidiary

     (20,787 )     (11,095 )

Deferred tax effect of U.S.GAAP adjustments

     (62,423 )     (32,978 )
    


 


       786,822       777,501  
    


 


Shareholders’ equity under U.S. GAAP

   (Won) 4,993,544     (Won) 5,097,652  
    


 



(*1) Including the impairment loss of development cost (net of minority interests)
(*2) Licensing cost related to merger with KTM.Com was moved into Licensing cost section.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

The condensed balance sheets in accordance with U.S. GAAP as of December 31, 2005 and 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

    

2005

As restated


   2006

Assets:

             

Current assets

   (Won) 2,823,851    (Won) 2,462,797

Non-current assets

     6,709,267      6,479,293
    

  

     (Won) 9,533,118    (Won) 8,942,090
    

  

Liabilities:

             

Current liabilities

   (Won) 1,774,570    (Won) 2,061,279

Long-term liabilities

     2,757,346      1,773,901
    

  

       4,531,916      3,835,180

Minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries

     7,658      9,258

Shareholders' equity

     4,993,544      5,097,652
    

  

     (Won) 9,533,118    (Won) 8,942,090
    

  

 

The following table reconciles cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 under Korean GAAP, as reported in the consolidated financial statements to cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2005 and 2006 under U.S. GAAP (in millions of Korean won) :

 

    2004

    2005

    2006

 

Cash flows from operating activities based on Korean GAAP

  (Won) 919,998     (Won) 2,218,891     (Won) 1,943,729  

Adjustments :

                       

Trading securities

    516       (240,000 )     241,823  

Asset securitization transactions

    218,225       —         —    

Difference of Consolidation scope (Note1)

    —         (1,021 )     —    
   


 


 


Cash flows from operating activities based on U.S. GAAP

  (Won) 1,138,739     (Won) 1,977,870     (Won) 2,185,552  
   


 


 


Cash flows from investing activities based on Korean GAAP

  (Won) (936,452 )   (Won) (1,324,036 )   (Won) (861,383 )

Adjustments :

                       

Trading securities

    (516 )     240,000       (241,823 )

Asset securitization transactions

    (15,228 )     —         —    

Difference of Consolidation scope (Note1)

    —         6,082       —    
   


 


 


Cash flows from investing activities based on U.S. GAAP

  (Won) (952,196 )   (Won) (1,077,954 )   (Won) (1,103,206 )
   


 


 


Cash flows from financing activities based on Korean GAAP

  (Won) 26,971     (Won) (618,797 )   (Won) (784,013 )

Adjustments :

                       

Asset securitization transactions

    (237,733 )     —         —    

Difference of Consolidation scope (Note1)

    —         (20,282 )     —    
   


 


 


Cash flows from financing activities based on U.S. GAAP

  (Won) (210,762 )   (Won) (639,079 )   (Won) (784,013 )
   


 


 


Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year based on Korean GAAP

  (Won) 30,941     (Won) 307,600     (Won) 590,712  

Adjustments :

                       

Difference of Consolidation scope (Note1)

    —         (15,221 )     —    
   


 


 


Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year based on U.S. GAAP

  (Won) 30,941     (Won) 292,379     (Won) 590,712  
   


 


 


 

(Note1) Reconciling items affecting cash flows related to difference in consolidation between Korean GAAP and U.S. GAAP (See Note 22 (2))

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(20) Additional acquisition of the Company’s common stocks by KT Corporation (Unaudited)

 

KT Corporation acquired additional shares of KTF during the period from February 28, 2006 to September 15, 2006. KT Corporation’s ownership percentage of KTF increased from 44.6% to 50.8% as a result of the series of acquisition. Percentage of ownership exceeded 50% as of August 20, 2006 and accordingly, KT Corporation became the majority shareholder and began to consolidate the financial statements of KTF which were previously accounted for using the equity method until August 19, 2006. Percentage of ownership of KTF is 52.2% as of December 31, 2006 due to retirement of treasury stock by KTF.

 

Condensed statements of income and condensed statements of cash flows pre and post of August 20, 2006 under Korean GAAP are as follows (Won in millions, except per share amounts):

 

Condensed statement of income

 

    

Jan. 1, 2006-

Aug. 20, 2006


    Aug. 20, 2006 -
Dec. 31, 2006


    Total

 
     (Unaudited)     (Unaudited)        

Operating revenue

   (Won) 4,171,956     (Won) 2,435,385     (Won) 6,607,341  

Operating expenses

     3,766,567       2,158,114       5,924,681  
    


 


 


Operating income

     405,389       277,271       682,660  
    


 


 


Other expenses, net

     (113,280 )     (53,553 )     (166,833 )
    


 


 


Ordinary income

     292,109       223,718       515,827  

Income tax expenses

     (67,197 )     (35,822 )     (103,019 )

Minority interests in net income (loss) of consolidated subsidiaries

     4,562       (5,369 )     (807 )
    


 


 


Net income

   (Won) 229,474     (Won) 182,527     (Won) 412,001  
    


 


 


Earnings per share

   (Won) 1,141     (Won) 908     (Won) 2,049  
    


 


 


Diluted earnings per share

   (Won) 1,141     (Won) 908     (Won) 2,049  
    


 


 


 

Condensed statement of cash flows:

 

    

Jan. 1, 2006-

Aug. 20, 2006


    Aug. 20, 2006-
Dec. 31, 2006


    Total

 
     (Unaudited)     (Unaudited)        

Cash flows from operating activities

   (Won) 1,094,810     (Won) 848,919     (Won) 1,943,729  

Cash flows from investing activities

     (704,525 )     (156,858 )     (861,383 )

Cash flows from financing activities

     (403,874 )     (380,139 )     (784,013 )
    


 


 


Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     (13,589 )     311,922       298,333  

Decrease from changes in consolidated subsidiaries

     (15,221 )     —         (15,221 )

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year

     307,600       278,790       307,600  
    


 


 


Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year

   (Won) 278,790     (Won) 590,712     (Won) 590,712  
    


 


 


 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

The effects of the significant adjustments to net earnings that are required if U.S. GAAP were applied instead of Korean GAAP are summarized as follows (Won in millions, except per share amounts):

 

    

Jan. 1, 2006-

Aug. 20, 2006


    Aug. 20, 2006-
Dec. 31, 2006


    Total

 
     (Unaudited)     (Unaudited)        

Net income under Korean GAAP

   (Won) 229,474     (Won) 182,527     (Won) 412,001  
    


 


 


Adjustments:

                        

(3) Capitalization of foreign currency translation gain (loss), net

     (287 )     59       (228 )

(4) Interest capitalization

     (1,777 )     (104 )     (1,881 )

(5) Licensing cost

     (18,885 )     (10,698 )     (29,583 )

(6) Deferred charges

     5,389       (580 )     4,809  

(7) Revenue recognition

     (7,305 )     (7,985 )     (15,290 )

(10) Merger with KT ICOM

     5,157       1,483       6,640  

(12) Disposal of trade accounts and notes receivable

     (79 )     (68 )     (147 )

(13) Investor- level goodwill

     1,413       515       1,928  

Deferred tax effect of U.S. GAAP adjustments

     20,993       3,749       24,742  
    


 


 


       4,619       (13,629 )     (9,010 )
    


 


 


Adjusted net income under U.S. GAAP

   (Won) 234,093     (Won) 168,898     (Won) 402,991  
    


 


 


Basic earnings per share

   (Won) 1,164     (Won) 840     (Won) 2,004  
    


 


 


Diluted earnings per share

   (Won) 1,164     (Won) 840     (Won) 2,004  
    


 


 


 

The following table reconciles cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 and from August 21, 2006 to December 31, 2006 under Korean GAAP, as reported in the consolidated financial statements to cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 and from August 21, 2006 to December 31, 2006 under U.S. GAAP (in millions of Korean won):

 

    Jan. 1, 2006-
Aug. 20, 2006


    Aug. 20, 2006-
Dec. 31, 2006


    Total

 
    (Unaudited)     (Unaudited)        

Cash flows from operating activities based on Korean GAAP

  (Won) 1,094,810     (Won) 848,919     (Won) 1,943,729  

Adjustments :

                       

Trading securities

    (32,545 )     274,368       241,823  
   


 


 


Cash flows from operating activities based on U.S. GAAP

  (Won) 1,062,265     (Won) 1,123,287     (Won) 2,185,552  
   


 


 


Cash flows from investing activities based on Korean GAAP

  (Won) (704,525 )   (Won) (156,858 )   (Won) (861,383 )

Adjustments :

                       

Trading securities

    32,545       (274,368 )     (241,823 )
   


 


 


Cash flows from investing activities based on U.S. GAAP

  (Won) (671,980 )   (Won) (431,226 )   (Won) (1,103,206 )
   


 


 


Cash flows from financing activities based on Korean GAAP

  (Won) (403,874 )   (Won) (380,139 )   (Won) (784,013 )

Adjustments :

    —         —         —    
   


 


 


Cash flows from financing activities based on U.S. GAAP

  (Won) (403,874 )   (Won) (380,139 )   (Won) (784,013 )
   


 


 


Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year based on Korean GAAP

  (Won) 278,790     (Won) 590,712     (Won) 590,712  

Adjustments :

    —         —         —    
   


 


 


Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year based on U.S. GAAP

  (Won) 278,790     (Won) 590,712     (Won) 590,712  
   


 


 


 

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Table of Contents

Independent Accountants’ Review Report

 

To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of

KT Freetel Co., Ltd.:

 

We have reviewed the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet of KT Freetel Co., Ltd. (“KT Freetel”) and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as the “Company”) as of August 20, 2006, and the related condensed consolidated statements of income and cash flows for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006, all expressed in Korean won. These interim financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to issue a report on these interim financial statements based on our reviews.

 

We conducted our reviews in accordance with standards for review of interim financials statements in the Republic of Korea. Those standards require that we plan and perform the review to obtain moderate assurance as to whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. A review is limited primarily to inquire of company personnel and analytical procedures applied to financial data, and this provides less assurance than audit. We have no performed an audit and, accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion.

 

Based on our review, nothing has come to our attention that cause us to believe that condensed consolidated financial statements referred to above are not presented fairly, in all material respects, in accordance with financial accounting standards in the Republic of Korea.

 

Accounting practices generally accepted in the Republic of Korea vary in certain significant respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Information relating to the nature and effect of such differences is presented in Note 21 to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

Without affecting our conclusion, we draw attention to the following:

 

As discussed in Note 21, the information related to the shareholders’ equity as previously reported under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America has been restated.

 

This report is intended solely for the information and use of the Shareholders, the boards of directors and managements of the Company and is not intended to be and should not be used by anyone other than these specified parties.

 

/s/ Deloitte Anjin LLC

Seoul, Korea

 

May 14, 2007.

 

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Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

 

AS OF AUGUST 20, 2006

 

    Korean Won

    2006

    (In millions)
ASSETS      

CURRENT ASSETS:

     

Cash and cash equivalents

  (Won) 278,790

Short-term financial instruments

    460,000

Short-term investment securities (Note 6)

    322,672

Trade accounts and notes receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of (Won)170,345 million and net of discount on present value of (Won)4,195 million (Notes 4 and 18)

    1,216,613

Accounts receivable-other, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of (Won)9,262 million (Note 18)

    116,533

Prepaid expenses

    15,538

Inventories, net of allowance of (Won)26,068 million (Note 2)

    153,450

Short-term loans (Note 5)

    10,334

Current portion of deferred income tax assets (Note 16)

    123,498

Other current assets

    36,325
   

      2,733,753
   

NON-CURRENT ASSETS:

     

Long-term financial instruments (Note 3)

    20

Long-term investment securities (Note 7)

    25,646

Long-term loans (Note 5)

    18,227

Investment securities using the equity method (Note 8)

    51,419

Long–term trade accounts and notes receivable, net of discount on present value of (Won)4,794 million (Note 2)

    62,677

Guarantee deposits

    214,131

Deferred income tax assets (Note 16)

    33,871

Property and equipment, net (Note 9)

    4,136,338

Intangibles, net (Note 10)

    997,510

Other non-current assets

    18,090
   

      5,557,929
   

Total Assets

  (Won) 8,291,682
   

 

(Continued)

 

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Table of Contents

KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED)

 

AS OF AUGUST 20, 2006

 

     KoreanWon

 
     2006

 
     (In millions)  

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

        

CURRENT LIABILITIES:

        

Trade accounts and notes payable (Note 18)

   (Won) 284,353  

Short-term borrowings (Note 11)

     72,241  

Current portion of debentures, net of discount on current portion of debentures of (Won)241 million (Note 12)

     299,759  

Accounts payable-other (Note 18)

     965,344  

Accrued expenses

     100,674  

Withholdings

     118,523  

Income tax payable

     80,797  

Current portion of long-term payable-other, net of discount on present value of (Won)2,373 million (Note 13)

     87,627  

Current portion of reserve for liabilities (Note 14)

     11,689  

Other current liabilities

     34,184  
    


Total Current Liabilities

     2,055,191  
    


LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:

        

Long-term accounts payable-other, net of discount on present value of (Won)73,350 million (Note 13)

     486,650  

Long-term debt (Note 11)

     20,000  

Debentures, net of discount on debenture of (Won)2,300 (Note 12)

     1,377,700  

Accrued severance indemnities, net (Note 2)

     45,063  

Reserve for liabilities (Note 14)

     8,721  

Other long-term liabilities

     5,359  
    


Total Long-term Liabilities

     1,943,493  
    


Total Liabilities

     3,998,684  
    


SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:

        

Common stock (Note 15)

     1,044,181  

Capital surplus (Note 15)

     1,726,645  

Retained earnings

     1,510,594  

Capital adjustments:

        

Treasury stock (Note 15)

     (2,076 )

Unrealized gain on valuation of available-for-sale securities (Notes 6 and 7)

     2,924  

Equity in capital adjustment of affiliates, net (Note 8)

     (76 )

Stock compensation (Note 15)

     5,155  

Foreign-based operation’s translation adjustment

     (47 )
    


Total Capital adjustments

     5,880  
    


Minority interests

     5,698  
    


Total Shareholders’ Equity

     4,292,998  
    


Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

   (Won) 8,291,682  
    


 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME

 

FOR THE PERIOD FROM JANUARY 1, 2006 TO AUGUST 20, 2006

 

     Korean Won

 
     2006

 
    

(In millions,

except per share amounts)

 

OPERATING REVENUE (Notes 17 and 18)

   (Won) 4,171,956  

OPERATING EXPENSES (Notes 17 and 18)

     (3,766,567 )
    


OPERATING INCOME

     405,389  
    


OTHER INCOME (EXPENSES), NET:

        

Interest income

     15,262  

Gain on foreign currency transactions, net

     6,225  

Gain on foreign currency translation, net

     218  

Gain on disposal of short-term investment securities, net

     15,554  

Gain on valuation of short-term investment securities, net (Note 6)

     2,785  

Interest expense

     (93,164 )

Loss on disposal of trade accounts and notes receivable (Note 4)

     (9,087 )

Loss on disposal of property and equipment, net

     (25,038 )

Equity in losses of affiliates, net (Note 8)

     (1,180 )

Gain on disposal of long-term investment securities, net

     221  

Recovery of impairment loss on short-term investment securities

     11,072  

Impairment loss on intangible assets (Note 10)

     (8,298 )

Loss on cancellation of a lease contract

     (22,695 )

Other, net

     (5,155 )
    


       (113,280 )
    


ORDINARY INCOME

     292,109  
    


INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAX

     292,109  

INCOME TAX EXPENSE (Note 16)

     67,197  
    


INCOME BEFORE MINORITY INTERESTS

     224,912  

MINORITY INTERESTS IN NET LOSSES OF CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES, NET

     4,562  
    


NET INCOME

   (Won) 229,474  
    


EARNINGS PER SHARE (Note 2)

   (Won) 1,141  
    


DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE (Note 2)

   (Won) 1,141  
    


 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

 

FOR THE PERIOD FROM JANUARY 1, 2006 TO AUGUST 20, 2006

 

     Korean Won

 
     2006

 
     (In millions)  

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

        

Net income

   (Won) 229,474  
    


Addition of expenses not involving cash outflows:

        

Loss on disposal of trade accounts and notes receivable

     9,087  

Loss on disposal of property and equipment, net

     25,038  

Depreciation

     663,505  

Amortization of intangibles

     83,997  

Interest expense

     15,918  

Provision for severance indemnities

     9,524  

Equity in losses of affiliates, net

     1,180  

Stock compensation expense

     193  

Bad debt expense

     60,726  

Impairment loss on intangible assets

     8,298  

Other

     7,177  
    


       884,643  
    


Deduction of revenues not involving cash inflows:

        

Gain on foreign currency translation, net

     223  

Gain on disposal of short-term investment securities, net

     15,554  

Gain on valuation of short-term investment securities, net

     2,785  

Gain on disposal of long-term investment securities, net

     221  

Recovery of impairment loss on short-term investment securities

     11,072  

Minority interest in net losses of consolidated subsidiaries

     4,562  

Other

     702  
    


       35,119  
    


Changes in assets and liabilities resulting from operations:

        

Increase in trade accounts and notes receivable

     (149,375 )

Increase in accounts receivable-other

     (10,531 )

Increase in prepaid expenses

     (2,808 )

Decrease in inventories

     67,536  

Increase in other current assets

     (10,692 )

Decrease in deferred income tax assets

     7,868  

Increase in long-term accounts receivable

     (6,719 )

Payment of severance indemnities

     (6,824 )

Decrease in trade accounts and notes payable

     (40,905 )

Increase in accounts payable-other

     217,160  

Decrease in accrued expenses

     (42,977 )

Increase in withholdings

     16,621  

Decrease in income tax payable

     (13,183 )

Decrease in other current liabilities

     (5,172 )

Decrease in reserve for liabilities

     (5,423 )

Other

     1,236  
    


       15,812  
    


Net cash flows provided by operating activities

     1,094,810  
    


 

(Continued)

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)

 

FOR THE PERIOD FROM JANUARY 1, 2006 TO AUGUST 20, 2006

 

     Korean Won

 
     2006

 
     (In millions)  

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

        

Cash inflows from investing activities:

        

Proceeds from disposal of short-term financial instruments

   (Won) 895,000  

Proceeds from sale of short-term investment securities

     1,082,311  

Proceeds from sale of long-term investment securities

     1,004  

Collection of short-term loans

     7,450  

Withdrawal of guarantee deposits

     23,147  

Proceeds from disposal of property and equipment

     1,344  

Proceeds from disposal of intangibles

     80  

Other

     760  
    


       2,011,096  
    


Cash outflows from investing activities:

        

Purchase of short-term financial instruments

     925,000  

Purchase of short-term investment securities

     1,028,500  

Purchase of long-term investment securities

     665  

Payment of guarantee deposits

     12,877  

Acquisition of property and equipment

     719,695  

Increase in intangibles

     24,251  

Lending of long-term loans

     770  

Other

     3,864  
    


       2,715,622  
    


Net cash flows used in investing activities

     (704,526 )
    


CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

        

Cash inflows from financing activities:

        

Proceeds from short-term borrowings

   (Won) 45,011  

Proceeds from long-term borrowings

     10,000  

Others

     5,253  
    


       60,264  
    


Cash outflows from financing activities:

        

Repayment of current portion of long-term debt

     340,280  

Payment of dividend

     120,688  

Others

     3,171  
    


       464,139  
    


Net cash flows used in financing activities

     (403,875 )
    


DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

     (13,591 )

DECREASE FROM CHANGES IN CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES

     (15,221 )

INCREASE FROM CHANGES IN EXCHANGE RATE

     2  

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD

     307,600  
    


CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD

   (Won) 278,790  
    


 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)

 

FOR THE PERIOD FROM JANUARY 1, 2006 TO AUGUST 20, 2006

 

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION

 

     Korean Won

 
     2006

 
     (In millions)  

NON-CASH TRANSACTIONS:

        

Transfer of debentures to current portion

   (Won) 300,000  

Transfer of long-term investment securities to current portion

     104,305  

Transfer of long-term loans to current portion

     9,507  

Recognition of gain on valuation of investment securities as capital adjustments

     66  

Recognition of equity in capital adjustment of affiliates

     (918 )

Transfer of long-term account payable-other to current portion

     90,000  

Retirement of loss on disposal of treasury stock

     17,457  

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

AS OF AUGUST 20, 2006 AND FOR THE PERIOD FROM JANUARY 1, 2006 TO AUGUST 20, 2006

 

1. GENERAL:

 

(1) KT Freetel Co., Ltd.

 

KT Freetel Co., Ltd was incorporated on January 3, 1997, under the Commercial Code of the Republic of Korea, and listed on the Korean Securities Dealers Association Automated Quotation System (the KOSDAQ) in December 1999. On April 19, 2004, the Company transferred the listing of its shares from the KOSDAQ to the Korea Stock Exchange. The Company is currently engaged in providing personal communications service (“PCS”), value added services, and sale and lease of personal communication devices in Korea. KT Corporation is the parent of the Company. As of August 20, 2006, KT Corporation consolidated the Company as KT Corporation acquired additional 12,489,850 shares (representing 6.21% of the Company) through the period then ended.

 

As of August 20, 2006, the shareholders of KT Freetel are as follows:

 

     Number of shares

  

Percentage of

ownership (%)


KT Corporation

   102,129,938    50.76

NTT DoCoMo, Inc

   20,176,309    10.03

Qualcomm Incorporated

   4,416,350    2.19

Microsoft Corp

   2,030,000    1.01

HyoSung Corp.

   3,017,276    1.50

Others

   69,438,218    34.51
    
  
     201,208,091    100.00
    
  

 

(2) Consolidated Subsidiaries

 

The condensed consolidated interim financial statement include the accounts of the Company and its controlled subsidiaries, except that company whose total assets as of December 31 of the prior year are less than (Won)7,000 million are excluded from consolidation. Generally, control is deemed to exist when the investor has more than 50 percent of the total outstanding voting stock or when the investor is the largest shareholders and owns more than 30 percent of the total outstanding voting stock.

 

The condensed consolidated interim financial statement include the account of KT Freetel and the controlled subsidiary listed below (collectively referred to as the “Company”), of which KT Freetel owns a majority of the issued shares. All inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 

    

Year control

was obtained


  

Ownership

Percentage


  

Primary business


Subsidiary


      2003

   2004

   2005

   2006

  

KTF Technologies Co., Ltd.

(“KTF Technologies”)

   2002    57.40    70.75    73.05    74.94   

Developing and manufacturing

  of PCS handsets

KTFMhows Co., Ltd.

(“KTFMhows”)

   2004    —      51.00    51.00    51.00    Mobile advertisement

PT.KTF Indonesia

(“KTF Indonesia”)

   2004    —      99.00    99.00    99.00    Providing PCS

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

On November 30, 2002, KT Freetel exercised the conversion right of convertible bonds at (Won)5,000 per share to acquire an additional 400,000 shares of common stock of KTF Technologies. The acquisition of KTF Technologies’ common stock was recorded in accordance with the purchase method of accounting. As a result of this acquisition, the Company recorded (Won)3,258 million of negative goodwill for the fair value of KTF Technologies’ net assets in excess of the acquisition cost. Negative goodwill is recognized as income on a systematic basis over the remaining weighted average useful life (5 years) of the identified acquired depreciable or amortizable assets.

 

On June 17, 2004, September 30, 2005 and March 23, 2006, KT Freetel acquired KTF Technologies’ minority interests, which represent the subsidiary’s outstanding common stocks of 13.35%, 2.30% and 1.88%, respectively. As a result of these acquisitions, the Company recorded the excess of the acquisition cost over the book value of KTF Technologies’ net assets to capital surplus of (Won)953 million in 2004 and the excess of the book value of KTF Technologies’ net assets over the acquisition costs to capital surplus of (Won)580 million in 2005 and the excess of the acquisition cost over the book value of KTF Technologies’ net assets to capital surplus of (Won)1,132 million in 2006.

 

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:

 

Basis of Financial Statement Presentation

 

The Company maintains its official accounting records in Korean won and prepares statutory financial statements in the Korean language (Hangul) in conformity with the accounting principles generally accepted in the Republic of Korea. Certain accounting principles applied by the Company that conform with financial accounting standards and accounting principles in the Republic of Korea may not conform with generally accepted accounting principles in other countries. Accordingly, these condensed consolidated interim financial statements are intended for use by those who are informed about Korean accounting principles and practices. The accompanying financial statements have been condensed, restructured and translated into English (with certain expanded descriptions) from the Korean language financial statements. In addition, we have added Note 21 “Reconciliation to Accounting Principles generally Accepted in the United states” to the accompanying financial statements.

 

Significant accounting policies followed by the Company in preparing the accompanying financial statements are summarized as follows:

 

Adoption of Newly Effective Statements of Korea Accounting Standards

 

The Company prepared its financial statements in accordance with the revised Statements of Korea Accounting Standards (“SKAS”), which are effective from January 1, 2006.

 

The Company newly adopted the Statements of Korea Accounting Standards (“SKAS”) No. 18-”Interests in Joint Ventures”, No. 19-”Lease” and No. 20-”Related Party Disclosures”, effective from January 1, 2006.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with Korean GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates and may affect amounts reported in future periods. Management believes that the estimates are reasonable.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Revenue Recognition

 

The Company’s revenues are principally derived from sales of PCS handsets and PCS service revenues, which consist of non-refundable activation fees, fixed monthly access fees and usage charges. The Company recognizes sales on PCS handsets when these are delivered to the dealers, fixed monthly access fees in the period of service, and usage charges and non-refundable activation fees at the time services are rendered.

 

Handset Subsidies

 

Effective March 27, 2006, the Telecommunication Law of Korea was revised to allow wireless carriers to provide handset subsidies to customers who have maintained their wireless account with the same carrier for 18 months or longer. The Company commenced its handset subsidy program on the effective date of the revised Telecommunication Law and included a clause in the service contract which allows the Company to change the terms of its subsidy program, including the Company’s ability to terminate the program at any time after a thirty day notice to its customers. Under this subsidy program, the Company provides handset subsidies to customers that have maintained their wireless account with any one carrier for 18 months or longer during the past 2 years. Handset subsidies given for the new or renewed customer relationship are expensed as incurred. In the event that the Company provides illegal handset subsidies to customers, Korea Communications Commission may assess levy fines and penalties.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

Cash and cash equivalents are bank deposits and short-term money market instruments that can be easily converted into cash and whose risk of value fluctuation arising from changes of interest rates is not material. Only investments with maturities of three months or less the acquisition date are included in cash equivalents.

 

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

 

The allowance for doubtful accounts is provided based on the estimated loss on uncollectible accounts and historical bad debt experience.

 

Changes in allowance for doubtful trade accounts and notes receivable and accounts receivable-other for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 are summarized as follows (Won in millions):

 

     Amount

 

Beginning of period

   (Won) 158,332  

Write-offs

     (39,451 )
    


       118,881  

Provision

     60,726  
    


End of period

   (Won) 179,607  
    


 

Inventories

 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value, cost being determined using the average cost method. If the net realizable value of inventories is lower than cost, inventories are adjusted to net realizable value and the difference between cost and revalued amount is charged to current operations.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Inventories as of August 20, 2006 consist of the following (Won in millions):

 

     Amount

 

Merchandise

   (Won) 153,416  

Finished goods

     8,101  

Raw materials

     17,345  

Stored goods

     21  

Others

     635  
    


       179,518  

Allowance for valuation loss

     (26,068 )
    


End of period

   (Won) 153,450  
    


 

Investment Securities Other than those Accounted for Using the Equity Method

 

(1) Classification of Securities

 

At acquisition, the Company classifies securities into one of the three categories: trading, held-to-maturity or available-for-sale. Trading securities are those that were acquired principally to generate profits from short-term fluctuations in prices. Held-to-maturity securities are those with fixed and determinable payments and fixed maturity that an enterprise has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity. Available-for-sale securities are those not classified as either held-to-maturity or trading securities. Trading securities are classified as short-term investment securities, whereas available-for-sale securities and held-to-maturity securities are classified as long-term investment securities, except for those maturity dates or whose likelihood of being disposed of are within one year from the balance sheet date, which are classified as short-term investment security.

 

(2) Valuation of Securities

 

Securities are recognized initially at cost, which includes the market value of the consideration given and incidental expenses. If the market price of the consideration given is not available, the market prices of the securities purchased are used as the basis of measurement. If neither the market price of the consideration given nor those of the acquired securities are available, the acquisition cost is measured at the best estimate of its fair value.

 

After initial recognition, held-to-maturity securities are valued at amortized cost. The difference between their acquisition costs and face values is amortized over the remaining term of the securities by applying the effective interest method and added to or subtracted from the acquisition costs and interest income of the remaining period. Trading securities are valued at fair value, with unrealized gains or losses included in current operations. Available-for-sale securities are also valued at fair value, with unrealized gains or losses included in capital adjustments, until the securities are sold or if the securities are determined to be impaired and the lump-sum cumulative amount of capital adjustments are reflected in current operations. However, available-for-sale securities that are not traded in an active market and whose fair values cannot be reliably estimated are accounted under the cost method. For those securities that are traded in an active market (marketable securities), fair values refer to the quoted market prices, which are measured as the closing price at the balance sheet date.

 

Securities are evaluated at each balance sheet date to determine whether there is any objective evidence of impairment loss. When any such evidence exists, unless there is a clear counter-evidence that recognition of impairment is unnecessary, the Company estimates the recoverable amount of the impaired security and recognizes any impairment loss in current operations. The amount of impairment loss of held-to-maturity

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

securities or non-marketable equity securities is measured as the difference between the recoverable amount and the carrying amount. The recoverable amount of held-to-maturity securities is the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the securities’ original effective interest rate. For available-for-sale debt or equity securities, the amount of impairment loss to be recognized in the current period is determined by subtracting the amount of impairment loss of the debt or equity security from the amount of amortized cost in excess of the recoverable amount for debt securities or from the amount of acquisition cost in excess of fair value for equity securities.

 

If the realizable value subsequently recovers, in case of a security stated at fair value, the increase in value is recorded in current operations, up to the amount of the previously recognized impairment loss, while a security stated at amortized cost or acquisition cost, the increase in value is recorded in current operations, so that its recovered value does not exceed what its amortized cost would be as of the recovery date if there had been no impairment loss.

 

Investment Securities Using the Equity Method

 

Equity securities held for investments in companies in which the Company is able to exercise significant influence over the investees are accounted for using the equity method. The Company’s share in net income or net loss of investees is reflected in current operations. Changes in the retained earnings, capital surplus or other capital accounts of investees are accounted for as an adjustment to retained earnings or to capital adjustments.

 

Property and Equipment

 

Property and equipment are stated at cost. Routine maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. Expenditures that result in enhancement of the value or extension of the useful lives of the facilities involved are capitalized as additions to property and equipment.

 

Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:

 

     Estimated useful lives

Buildings and structures

   15~30 years

Machinery and equipment

   5~8 years

Vehicles

   4~8 years

Other

   4~8 years

 

Capitalization of Financing Costs

 

Interest expense, discount and other financial charges, including certain foreign exchange translation gains and losses on borrowings associated with the manufacture, purchase, or construction of property and equipment, incurred prior to the completion of the acquisition, were capitalized until the year ended December 31, 2002, and no longer capitalized commencing from January 1, 2003 in accordance with SKAS No. 7.

 

Long-Lived Assets

 

Long-lived assets are subject to review for impairment on an annual basis and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognized when estimated undiscounted future net cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition are less than its carrying amount. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Leases

 

Lease agreements that include a bargain purchase option, result in the transfer of ownership by the end of the lease term, have a term equal to at least 75% of the estimated economic life of the leased property or where the present value of the minimum lease payments at the beginning of the lease term equals or exceeds 90% of the fair value of the leased property are accounted for as capital leases. All other leases are accounted for as operating leases. Assets and liabilities related to capital leases are recorded as property, plant and equipment and long-term debt, respectively, and the related interest is calculated using the effective interest rate method. For operating leases, the future minimum lease payments are expensed ratably over the lease term while contingent rentals are expensed as incurred.

 

Intangibles

 

Intangible assets are stated at cost, net of accumulated amortization computed using the straight-line method over the useful lives of the assets as described below.

 

     Estimated useful lives

Frequency use rights

   13 years

Intellectual property rights

   5~10 years

Facility use rights

   10~20 years

Development costs

   2~5 years

Other

   5 years

 

Long-term Trade Accounts and Notes Receivable

 

Long-term trade accounts and notes receivable are recorded at the net present value of future cash flows, calculated using the effective interest rate at the time of the contract execution. The difference between the nominal value and the present value of these accounts and notes receivable is amortized over the contract period using the effective interest rate method. The amortization is recognized as interest income. Long-term trade accounts and notes receivable, composed of handset installment receivables, as of August 20, 2006 is recorded at net present value using the weighted average borrowing interest rate as follows (Won in millions):

 

     Amount

 

Long-term trade accounts and notes receivable

   (Won) 67,471  

Discount

     (4,794 )
    


     (Won) 62,677  
    


 

Discounts on Debentures

 

Discounts on debentures are amortized over the redemption period of the debentures using the effective interest rate method. Amortization of discounts is recognized as interest expense.

 

Accrued Severance Indemnities

 

All employees with more than one year of service are entitled to receive a lump-sum payment upon termination of their employment with the Company, based on their length of service and rate of pay at the time of termination. The severance indemnities that would be payable assuming all eligible employees were to resign at the balance sheet date amount to (Won)45,063 million as of August 20, 2006.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Changes in accrued severance indemnities for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     Amount

 

Beginning of period

   (Won) 41,780  

Severance payments

     (6,824 )
    


       34,956  

Provision(*)

     10,058  

Other changes

     49  
    


Net severance indemnities

   (Won) 45,063  
    


 


(*) (Won)534 million of provision is transferred to development cost.

 

Foreign Currency Translation of Foreign Subsidiaries

 

In translating the foreign currency financial statements of the Company’s overseas subsidiaries into Koran won, the Company presents the translation gain or loss as a foreign- based operation’s translation adjustment in the capital adjustment section of the balance sheet. The translation gain or loss arises from the application of different exchange rates; the year-end rate for balance sheet items except shareholders’ equity, the historical rate for shareholders’ equity and average rate for statement of income items.

 

Accounting for Foreign Currency Transactions and Translation

 

The Company maintains its accounts in Korean won. Transactions in foreign currencies are recorded in Korean won based on the prevailing rates of exchange on the transaction date. Monetary accounts with balances denominated in foreign currencies are recorded and reported in the accompanying financial statements at the exchange rates prevailing at the balance sheet date and the translation gains or losses are reflected in current operations. The balances have been translated using the rate of (Won)961.70 to US$ 1.00 at August 20, 2006.

 

Accounting for Derivative Instruments

 

All derivative instruments are accounted for at fair value with the valuation gain or loss recorded as an asset or liability. If the derivative instruments are not part of a transaction qualifying as a hedge, the adjustment to fair value is reflected in current operations. The accounting for derivative transactions that are part of a qualified hedge based on both the purpose of the transaction and on meeting the specified criteria for hedge accounting differs depending on whether the transaction is a fair value hedge or a cash flow hedge. Fair value hedge accounting is applied to a derivative instrument designated as hedging the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset or a liability or a firm commitment (hedged item) that is attributable to a particular risk. The gain or loss on both the hedging derivative instruments and on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk is reflected in current operations.

 

Cash flow hedge accounting is applied to a derivative instrument designated as hedging the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows of an asset or liability or a forecasted transaction that is attributable to a particular risk.

 

The effective portion of gain or loss on a derivative instrument designated as a cash flow hedge is recorded as a capital adjustment and the ineffective portion is recorded in current operations. The effective portion of gain or loss recorded as a capital adjustment is reclassified to current earnings in the same period during which the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. If the hedged transaction results in the acquisition of an asset or the incurrence of a liability, the gain or loss in capital adjustment is added to or deducted from the asset or the liability.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Income Tax

 

The provision for income tax consists of the corporate income tax and resident surtax currently payable and changes in deferred income taxes for the period. The Company recognizes deferred taxes arising from temporary differences between amounts reported for financial accounting and income tax purposes. Deferred income taxes will be offset against those incurred in the future, if any. Deferred income taxes are recalculated based on the actual rate, effective at each balance sheet date (See Note 16).

 

Stock Compensation Expense

 

The Company uses the fair value based method of accounting for its employee stock option compensation plan (see Note 15). Under the fair value based method, compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the value of the award and is recognized over the service period. For stock options, fair value is determined using an option-pricing model that takes into account the stock price at the grant date, the exercise price, the expected life of the option, the volatility of the underlying stock, expected dividends and the current risk-free interest rate for the expected life of the option. The computed deferred compensation expenses are allocated over the contracted vesting period. When the stock options are exercised with the issuance of new shares, the difference between the exercise price plus the stock option cost recorded in the capital adjustment account and the par value of the new shares issued, is recorded as additional paid-in capital (See Note 15).

 

Basic and Diluted Ordinary Income per Share and Earnings per Share

 

Ordinary income per share and earnings per share are computed by dividing ordinary income (after deducting the income tax effect) and net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. The number of shares used in computing earnings and ordinary income per share was 201,147 thousand shares for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006.

 

Diluted ordinary income per share and earnings per share are computed by dividing diluted ordinary income (after deducting the income tax effect) and net income by the weighted average diluted number of common shares outstanding, which includes the additional common shares that would have been outstanding if the dilutive potential common shares had been issued during the period. The number of shares used in computing diluted ordinary income per share and earnings per share amounts for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 were 201,147 thousand shares. Diluted ordinary income and earnings for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 were (Won)229,474 million.

 

The dilutive potential shares as of August 20, 2006 are as follows:

 

    

Exercise period


  

Number of

common shares to be issued


Stock options

   March 29, 2004~March 28, 2009    18,000

Stock options

   March 25, 2005~March 24, 2010    44,800

Stock options

   September 9, 2005~September 8, 2010    320,913

Stock options

   March 5, 2007~March 4, 2012    128,800

 

3. RESTRICTED DEPOSITS:

 

As of August 20, 2006, the deposits under long-term financial instruments amounting to (Won)20 million are subject to withdrawal restrictions as collateral for borrowings and guarantee of checking accounts.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

4. DISPOSAL OF TRADE ACCOUNTS AND NOTES RECEIVABLE:

 

On December 19, 2003, the Company transferred PCS service receivables account with a total balance of (Won)253,247 million as of October 31, 2003 to Shinhan Bank Trust. The Company received (Won)200,000 million of cash and (Won)53,247 million of beneficiary certificate as a result of transferring such PCS service receivable account, for which the outstanding balance is revolved on a continuous basis through February 28, 2007 with Shinhan Bank Trust. In connection with revolving the outstanding balance of PCS service receivable accounts, the Company recognized a “loss on disposal of trade accounts and notes receivable” of (Won)7,905 million for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006.

 

5. LOANS TO EMPLOYEES:

 

As of August 20, 2006, the Company has provided loans to its employees for tuition and purchase of KT Freetel’s stock with the balance of (Won)973 million in short-term loans and (Won)783 million in long-term loans.

 

6. SHORT-TERM INVESTMENT SECURITIES:

 

  (1) Short-term investment securities as of August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     Amount

Trading securities:

      

Beneficiary certificates

   (Won) 282,785

Available-for-sale securities:

      

Listed equity securities

     328

Held-to-maturity securities:

      

Beneficiary certificates

     39,559
    

     (Won) 322,672
    

 

(2) Trading securities as of August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2006

   Acquisition cost

   Fair value

   Gain on valuation

Trading securities:

                    

Beneficiary certificates

   (Won) 280,000    (Won) 282,785    (Won) 2,785

 

The gain on valuation of trading securities is recorded in current operations.

 

(3) Listed equity securities as of August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2006

   Acquisition cost

   Fair value

   Gain on valuation

Empas.com

   (Won) 157    (Won) 328    (Won) 171

 

The gain on valuation (before tax effect) of the above listed equity securities is recorded in capital adjustments.

 

  (4) Held-to-maturity securities as of August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2006

   Acquisition cost

   Book value

     

Beneficiary certificates

   (Won) 80,150    (Won) 39,559

 

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

The Company acquired the above beneficiary certificates issued by Shinhan Bank Trust in relation to the disposal of trade accounts and notes receivable, and reclassified those beneficiary certificates into short-term investment securities (Note 4). The Company recognized the difference between fair value and acquisition cost as impairment loss as the related securities were determined to be other than temporarily impaired.

 

7. LONG-TERM INVESTMENT SECURITIES:

 

(1) Long-term investment securities as of August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     Amount

Available-for-sale securities:

      

Listed equity securities

   (Won) 7,413

Non-listed equity securities

     13,791

Investments in funds

     2,863

Debt securities

     1,579
    

     (Won) 25,646
    

 

(2) Listed equity securities as of August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2006

 
     Acquisition
cost


   Fair
value


  

Gain
(loss) on

valuation


 

Wide Telecom Co.

   (Won) 300    (Won) 12    (Won) (288 )

Gaeasoft Co., Ltd.

     532      777      245  

KRTnet Corp.

     1,954      3,868      1,914  

Geotel Co., Ltd.

     262      1,820      1,558  

Beneficiary certificates

     503      936      433  
    

  

  


     (Won) 3,551    (Won) 7,413    (Won) 3,862  
    

  

  


 

The gain (loss) on valuation (before tax effect) of the above listed equity securities is included in capital adjustments.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(3) Non-listed equity securities as of August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2006

  

Ownership

(%)


  

Acquisition

cost


  

Net asset

value


  

Book

Value


           

Mondex Korea Co., Ltd.

   6.02    (Won) 920    (Won) —      (Won) —  

Internet Metix Inc.

   2.00      200      36      23

Inews24. Co., Ltd.

   2.83      350      8      —  

The Radio News Co., Ltd.

   10.73      624      —        —  

Prime Venture Capital Co., Ltd.

   4.00      1,000      160      —  

Onse Telecom Corp.

   0.17      2,148      107      105

NAZCA Entertainment Co., Ltd.

   7.13      500      82      46

Toysoft Co., Ltd

   8.78      500      26      28

CXP, Inc.(EX: Ohmylove Co., Ltd.)

   12.06      1,200      98      131

IMM Investment Corp.

   1.09      500      314      210

Citylover Co., Ltd.

   3.45      38      —        —  

Vacom Wireless, Inc.

   16.77      1,880      1,106      719

Mobizon Co., Ltd.

   2.25      48      11      48

MDS Planning Co., Ltd.

   4.00      120      —        1

WIZcommunications Co., Ltd.

   10.91      290      384      290

Intromobile Co., Ltd.

   8.00      200      556      200

Korea Smart Card Co., Ltd.

   1.06      326      96      326

Directmedia Co., Ltd.

   12.87      435      290      248

Ncerti Co., Ltd.(*)

   19.90      328      362      328

Neighbor System, Inc.

   10.40      525      445      525

Mobition Co., Ltd.(*)

   19.00      67      21      67

PT. Mobile 8

   2.50      9,348      9,348      9,348

PT. Freecoms(*)

   19.90      263      263      263

Others

   —        1,243      1,206      885
         

  

  

          (Won) 23,053    (Won) 14,919    (Won) 13,791
         

  

  


(*) The Company is not able to exercise significant influence over Ncerti Co., Ltd, Mobition Co., Ltd and PT. Freecoms through its voting rights or other means.

 

(4) Investments in funds as of August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2006

     Ownership
(%)


   Acquisition
cost


   Book
value


CEC Mobile Ltd.

   16.67    (Won) 4,456    (Won) 1,509

Engineering Financial Cooperative

   0.01      15      15

MIC2001-4TG Venture

   5.00      650      650

KTOA

   —        689      689
         

  

          (Won) 5,810    (Won) 2,863
         

  

 

(5) Debt securities as of August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     2006

     Acquisition
cost


   Book
value


Government bonds

   (Won) 1,579    (Won) 1,579
    

  

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(6) Maturities of debt securities as of August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     1-5 years

   6-10 years

Government bonds

   (Won) 1,563    (Won) 16
    

  

 

8. INVESTMENT SECURITIES USING THE EQUITY METHOD:

 

(1) Investment securities using the equity method as of August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

          2006

     Ownership
(%)


   Acquisition
cost


   Book
value


Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd.

   2.12    (Won) 9,954    (Won) —  

Harex Info Tech Ltd.

   21.17      3,375      2,218

Korea IT Fund

   10.00      30,000      31,363

Korea Telecom Strategy Fund

   10.00      2,000      1,842

ENtoB Corp.

   3.13      500      632

Boston Enterprise Partners(*)

   39.02      8,000      7,918

Sidus FNH Corp.

   15.30      8,400      7,446
         

  

          (Won) 62,229    (Won) 51,419
         

  


(*) The Company excluded Boston Enterprise Partners from consolidated subsidiary because the Company is not able to exercise control over it.

 

Together with KT Corporation’s ownership, the Company is able to exercise significant influence over Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd., Korea IT Fund, Korea Telecom Strategy Fund, ENtoB Corp and Sidus FNH.

 

The Company discontinued accounting its investment in Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd. (KDB) under the equity method since the net book value of such investee is below zero. The unrecognized equity losses not reported in the accompanying financial statements of KDB are (Won)242 million for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006.

 

(2) Details of valuation using the equity method for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     Beginning
of period


  

Acquisition and

reclassification


  

Equity in

Earnings (losses)


   

Other

changes(*)


    End
of period


Harex Info Tech Ltd.

   (Won) 2,698    (Won) —      (Won) (480 )   (Won) —       (Won) 2,218

KTFMhows Co., Ltd.

     2,508                     (2,508 )     —  

Korea IT Fund

     30,857      —        506       —         31,363

Korea Telecom Strategy Fund

     2,015      —        (193 )     20       1,842

ENtoB Corp.

     630      —        2       —         632

Boston Enterprise Partners

     —        —        (61 )     7,979       7,918

Sidus FNH Corp.

     8,400      —        (954 )     —         7,446
    

  

  


 


 

     (Won) 47,108    (Won) —      (Won) (1,180 )   (Won) 5,491     (Won) 51,419
    

  

  


 


 


(*) Other changes are composed of increase from changes in consolidated subsidiaries, acquisition (disposal) amounts of investment securities, dividends and the changes in investment securities in capital adjustments.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

The Company recognized equity in capital adjustment of affiliate of (Won)76 million, which were recorded in capital adjustments as of August 20, 2006.

 

(3) Changes in the difference between acquisition cost and net asset value at the acquisition date as of August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     Beginning
of period


   Increase

   Amortization

   End
of period


Harex Info Tech Ltd.

   (Won) 1,531    (Won) —      (Won) 255    (Won) 1,276

Sidus FNH Corp.

     5,812      —        775      5,037
    

  

  

  

     (Won) 7,343    (Won) —      (Won) 1,030    (Won) 6,313
    

  

  

  

 

(4) The key financials of investees accounted for using the equity method as of and for the six months ended June 30, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

    Total assets

  Total
liabilities


  Sales

  Net
income (loss)


 

Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd.

  (Won) 590,607   (Won) 524,603   (Won) 192,084   (Won) 7,260  

Harex Info Tech Ltd.

    4,697     248     2,861     (891 )

Korea IT Fund

    313,633     —       —       6,456  

Korea Telecom Strategy Fund

    18,583     160     333     161  

ENtoB Corp.

    50,341     30,114     188,463     274  

Boston Enterprise Partners

    20,374     85     278     (164 )

Sidus FNH Corp.

    27,688     11,941     30,559     (1,169 )

 

9. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:

 

Changes in property and equipment for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

   

Beginning

of period


  Increase

  Decrease

  End of period

    Acquisition

  Other

  Disposal

  Other

 

Land

  (Won) 119,545   (Won) 13   (Won) —     (Won) 231   (Won) —     (Won) 119,327

Buildings and structures

    420,966     30     1,662     1,248     524     420,886

Machinery and equipment

    7,473,033     12,128     609,982     61,001     41     8,034,101

Vehicles

    11,935     11     189     124     —       12,011

Other

    820,208     13,265     41,295     19,239     115     855,414

Construction in progress

    40,577     694,248     —       —       652,930     81,895
   

 

 

 

 

 

    (Won) 8,886,264   (Won) 719,695   (Won) 653,128   (Won) 81,843   (Won) 653,610   (Won) 9,523,634
   

 

 

 

 

 

   

Beginning

of period


  Increase

  Decrease

  End of period

    Depreciation(*)

  Other

  Disposal

  Other

 

Less: Accumulated depreciation

                                   

Buildings and structures

  (Won) 70,310   (Won) 9,204   (Won) —     (Won) 294   (Won) 22   (Won) 79,198

Machinery and equipment

    4,093,070     580,900     134     36,991     17     4,637,096

Vehicles

    9,161     869     1     56     —       9,975

Other

    602,245     73,888     63     18,076     112     658,008

Accumulated impairment loss

    2,285     734     —       —       —       3,019
   

 

 

 

 

 

      4,777,071   (Won) 665,595   (Won) 198   (Won) 55,417   (Won) 151     5,387,296
   

 

 

 

 

 

Property and equipment, net

  (Won) 4,109,193                           (Won) 4,136,338
   

                         


(*) (Won)2,090 million of depreciation is transferred to development cost.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

The market value of the Company’s land based on the official price of land (published by the Ministry of Construction and Traffic) is (Won)142,491 million as of August 20, 2006.

 

Depreciable assets are insured against fire and other casualty losses up to (Won)1,042,036 million as of August 20, 2006.

 

10. INTANGIBLES:

 

(1) Changes in intangibles for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

    

Beginning

of period


    Increase

   Decrease

   End of
period


 
     Acquisition

   Other

   Amortization

    Other

  

Intellectual property rights

   (Won) 2,363     (Won) 892    (Won) —      (Won) 357     (Won) —      (Won) 2,898  

Facility use rights

     7,786       115      —        873       19      7,009  

Frequency use rights

     1,021,374       —        —        59,586       —        961,788  

Development costs

     16,198       15,855      2,951      18,234       8,298      8,472  

Other

     16,251       7,389      —        5,317       98      18,225  

Negative goodwill

     (1,295 )     —        —        (413 )     —        (882 )
    


 

  

  


 

  


     (Won) 1,062,677     (Won) 24,251    (Won) 2,951    (Won) 83,954     (Won) 8,415    (Won) 997,510  
    


 

  

  


 

  


 

The Company recognized impairment loss on intangible assets of (Won)8,298 million for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006.

 

(2) Ordinary development costs of (Won)3,965 million were charged to expense for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006.

 

(3) On December 15, 2000, KT ICOM acquired the license to provide third generation mobile services utilizing 2Ghz frequency band (“IMT-2000 service”) with W-CDMA technology. KT ICOM paid (Won)650 billion of the total license fee of (Won)1,300 billion on March 20, 2001 and the remaining balance is required to be paid including interest for the period from 2007 to 2011. On December 4, 2001, MIC granted the license to KT ICOM and assigned the related frequency band, giving KT ICOM the right to provide IMT-2000 services using W-CDMA technology for 15 years from that date.

 

On March 6, 2003, KT ICOM was merged into the Company, and the Company started to provide IMT-2000 service on December 28, 2003.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

11. BORROWINGS:

 

(1) Short-term borrowings as of August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions, JPY in millions, U.S dollars in thousands, EUR in thousands, GBP in thousands):

 

    

Interest rate

per annum (%)


      
  

2006


   Amount

 

Discounted promissory notes

   4.45 ~ 5.38    (Won) 48,015  

Usance letter of credit

   LIBOR+0.5%      17,057  
          US$ (17,736 )
     LIBOR+0.5%      1,782  
          JPY (215 )
     LIBOR+0.5%      267  
          EUR (147 )
     LIBOR+0.5%      120  
          GBP (97 )

Other

   4.85      5,000  
         


          (Won) 72,241  
         


 

(2) Lon-term debt as of August 20, 2006 is as follows (Won in millions):

 

    

Interest rate

per annum (%)


    
   2006

   Amount

General loans

   5.80    (Won) 20,000
    
  

 

12. DEBENTURES:

 

(1) Debentures as of August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

          Interest rate
per annum (%)


      
    

Due date


   2006

   Amount

 

42nd

   Nov. 14, 2007    5.94    (Won) 200,000  

44th

   Feb. 19, 2009    5.66      360,000  

45th

   Mar. 15, 2008    5.24      320,000  

46th

   May 10, 2007    4.61      300,000  

47-1st

   July 13, 2009    4.95      230,000  

47-2nd

   July 12, 2011    5.32      70,000  

48th

   Feb. 15, 2010    5.31      200,000  
              


                 1,680,000  

Less : Discount on debentures

     (2,541 )
                 1,677,459  

Less : Current portion

     (299,759 )
              


               (Won) 1,377,700  
              


 

Discounts on debentures are amortized over the period from the issue date to the maturity date, using the effective interest rate, and the amortized amounts are charged to interest expense.

 

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(2) Payment schedules for the Company’s debentures as of August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

Year


   Amount

Sep 2006 – Aug 2007

   (Won) 300,000

Sep 2007 – Aug 2008

     520,000

Sep 2008 – Aug 2009

     360,000

Sep 2009 – Aug 2010

     430,000

Sep 2010 – Aug 2011

     —  

Sep 2011 – Aug 2012

     70,000
    

     (Won) 1,680,000
    

 

13. LONG-TERM ACCOUNTS PAYABLE-OTHER:

 

Long-term account payable-other is related to frequency use right required to be paid including applicable interest from 2007 to 2011. Long-term accounts payable-other as of August 20, 2006 is stated at net present value of future cash flows, calculated using the effective interest rate at the time of receipt of frequency use license as follows (Won in millions):

 

     Amount

 

Long-term account payable-other

   (Won) 650,000  

Less : Current portion

     (90,000 )

Discount

     (73,350 )
    


     (Won) 486,650  
    


 

The maturities of the Company’s long-term account payable-other as of August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

Year


   Amount

Sep 2006 – Aug 2007

   (Won) 90,000

Sep 2007 – Aug 2008

     110,000

Sep 2008 – Aug 2009

     130,000

Sep 2009 – Aug 2010

     150,000

Sep 2010 – Aug 2011

     170,000
    

     (Won) 650,000
    

 

14. RESERVE FOR LIABILITIES:

 

(1) The Company has accounted for the call bonus mileage and warranty, which the Company is obliged to pay to its customers, as reserve for liabilities. Warranties related to sales of handset are one year and are recorded as liability based on the management’s estimate according to the historical experience. Changes in reserve for liabilities for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 are summarized as follows (Won in millions):

 

Year


   Call bonus

    Warranty

 

Beginning of year

   (Won) 18,896     (Won) 2,835  

Payment

     (4,965 )     (3,944 )

Provision

     3,485       4,103  
    


 


       17,416       2,994  

Less : current portion

     (8,695 )     (2,994 )
    


 


     (Won) 8,721     (Won) —    
    


 


 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(2) Call bonus mileages provided by the Company expire in 5 years from the date when call bonus mileages are earned. The Company expects its call bonus mileages to be used by customers as follows (Won in millions):

 

Year


   Normal
amount


   Present
value


Sep 2006 – Aug 2007

   (Won) 8,923    (Won) 8,695

Sep 2007 – Aug 2008

     4,967      4,587

Sep 2008 – Aug 2009

     2,667      2,332

Sep 2009 – Aug 2010

     1,432      1,186

Sep 2010 – Aug 2011

     786      616
    

  

     (Won) 18,775    (Won) 17,416
    

  

 

15. SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:

 

(1) Capital stock

 

The Company has authorized 400,000,000 common shares of (Won)5,000 par value and issued 201,208,091 shares as of August 20, 2006.

 

(2) Treasury stock

 

As of August 20, 2006, the Company holds 61,247 treasury shares and intends to dispose of the treasury stock in near future.

 

(3) Stock Option Plan

 

The Company entered into stock option agreements with the Chief Executive Officer and senior managers. The stock option will be vested after two years from the date of grant and can be exercised for five years from the date when they are vested. Upon the exercise of stock options, the Company will issue its common stocks.

 

The changed in stock options for period from January 1, to August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

Date


   Number
of shares


   Weighted average
exercise price


Outstanding at beginning of year

   512,513    (Won) 31,899

Granted

   —        —  

Forfeited or expired

   —        —  

Outstanding at end of period

   512,513    (Won) 31,899
    
  

Exercisable at end of period

   383,713    (Won) 32,301
    
  

 

The details of the stock options granted as of August 20, 2006 are as follows:

 

Grant Date


  

Employee


  

Number of

shares


  

Exercise

price/share


   Methods

   Exercise period

3.29, 2001

   Former CEO    18,000    (Won) 41,273    New stock issue    3.29, 2004~3.28, 2009

3.25, 2002

   Senior managers    44,800      45,178    New stock issue    3.25, 2005~3.24, 2010

9. 8, 2003

   CEO, Senior managers    320,913      30,000    New stock issue    9.9, 2005~9.8, 2010

3. 4, 2005

   Senior managers    128,800      30,700    New stock issue    3.5, 2007~3.4, 2012

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

The Company values stock options granted based on the fair value method (see Note 2). Total compensation expense of (Won)5,316 million was allocated over the vesting period, and the compensation expense charged to operations for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 are (Won)193 million. As of August 20, 2006, approximately 19,299,709 shares of common stocks have been reserved for issuance under the stock option plan.

 

The principal assumptions made in relation to estimation of compensation expense for the stock options are as follows:

 

     1st

   2nd

   3rd

   4th

Risk-free interest rate (%)

     6.12      6.44      4.31      4.18

Expected life (years)

     3      3      3      3

Expected forfeitures per year (%)

     —        —        —        —  

Volatility (%)

     122.33      97.05      63.14      37.33

Fair value per option

   (Won) 28,417    (Won) 30,565    (Won) 8,812    (Won) 4,715

Total compensation cost (Won in millions)

   (Won) 512    (Won) 1,369    (Won) 2,828    (Won) 607

 

16. INCOME TAX AND DEFERRED INCOME TAXES:

 

(1) The statutory corporate income tax rate (including resident surtax) applicable to the Company was approximately 27.5 percent for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006. Income tax expense for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 is as follows (Won in millions):

 

     Amount

 

Income before income tax

   (Won) 292,109  

Adjustments:

        

Permanent differences

     37,938  

Temporary differences, net

     (3,792 )
    


       34,146  
    


Taxable income before tax loss carryforward

     326,255  

Tax loss carryforward

     24,610  
    


Taxable income

     301,645  

Tax rate (%)

     27.5  
    


Tax calculated on taxable income

     82,952  

Tax credit

     (13,019 )
    


Income tax currently payable

     69,933  

Decrease (increase) in deferred income taxes:

        

Temporary differences

     4,194  

Utilization of accumulated tax losses carried forward

     (697 )

Utilization of accumulated tax credit carried forward

     348  

Deduction to capital adjustments

     (1,109 )
    


Income tax expense

   (Won) 67,197  
    


 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(2) Changes in deferred income tax assets for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     Amount

 

Beginning of period

   (Won) 163,931  

Increase

     85,701  

Decrease

     (92,263 )
    


End of period

     157,369  

Less : Current portion

     123,498  
    


Non-current portion

   (Won) 33,871  
    


 

(3) The tax effects of each type temporary difference that gave rise to a significant portion of the deferred tax assets and liabilities as of August 20, 2006 is as follows (Won in millions):

 

     Amount

 

Current

        

Allowance for doubtful accounts

   (Won) 33,592  

Accrued expense

     17,987  

Inventory

     9,109  

Long-term investment securities

     17,893  

Tax credit carry forwards

     40,000  

Reserve for liabilities

     2,391  

Others

     2,526  
    


     (Won) 123,498  
    


Non-current

        

Provision for severance indemnities

   (Won) 7,603  

Long-term investment securities

     (1,109 )

Tax credit carryforwards

     22,664  

Reserve for liabilities

     2,398  

Others

     2,315  
    


     (Won) 33,871  
    


 

17. OPERATING REVENUE AND EXPENSES:

 

(1) Operating revenue for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 consist of the following (Won in millions):

 

     Amount

PCS

   (Won) 2,931,680

Merchandise sales

     841,152

Other

     399,124
    

     (Won) 4,171,956
    

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(2) Operating expenses for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 are summarized below (Won in millions).

 

     Amount

Salaries and wages

   (Won) 108,673

Provision for severance indemnities

     9,420

Employee welfare

     20,623

Rent

     82,725

Lease

     31,702

Commissions

     283,691

Depreciation

     662,139

Amortization of intangibles

     83,247

Tax and dues (*)

     39,055

Interconnection charges

     422,539

Leased line charges

     222,499

Ordinary development costs

     3,965

Sales promotion

     192,509

Sales commissions

     518,596

Advertisements

     86,326

Bad debt

     60,726

Water and electricity

     37,067

Communications

     17,850

Repairs and maintenance

     50,913

Cost of handsets

     659,561

Other

     172,741
    

     (Won) 3,766,567
    

 


(*) Amounts include fines and penalties of (Won)17,800 million won related to handset subsidies.

 

18. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS:

 

(1) Related parties are as follows:

 

    

Company


Parent company

  

KT Corporation

Affiliates

  

Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd, Hares Info Tech Ltd,

Korea IT Fund, Korea Telecom Strategy Fund, ENtoB Corp,

Boston Enterprise Partners, Sidus FNH Corp

Subsidiaries of the parent company

  

KT Networks Co., Ltd, KT Hitel Co., Ltd, KT Powertel Co., LTd,

Korea Telecom Japan, KT Submarine Co., LTd, KT Linkus Co., Ltd,

KT Commerce, Inc, KT Rental Co., Ltd, KTCC Co., Ltd, NTC Co., LTd

Internal coporate VentureFund 1,2, KTAI Co., Ltd, KTPI Co., Ltd,

Others

  

Mobition Co., Ltd

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(2) Transactions with related parties for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

Revenues:

 

    

Transaction


   2006

KT Corporation

   Interconnection charges & others    (Won) 509,943

KT Networks

   Interconnection charges & others      1,437

KT Powertel

   Interconnection charges & others      2,002

Mobition

   Interconnection charges & others      1,349

Others

   Interconnection charges & others      68
         

          (Won) 514,799
         

 

Expenses:

 

    

Transaction


   2006

KT Corporation

   Leased line charges & others    (Won) 304,309

KT Networks

   Leased line charges & others      4,273

KT Hitel

   Leased line charges & others      3,267

KT Rental

   Leased line charges & others      1,815

KT Commerce

   Leased line charges & others      1,162

Mobition

   Leased line charges & others      2,362

Others

   Leased line charges & others      1,568
         

          (Won) 318,756
         

 

(3) Receivables and payables with related parties as of August 20, 2006 are as follows (Won in millions):

 

     Receivables

   Payables

KT Corporation

   (Won) 186,567    (Won) 71,578

KT Networks

     1      268

KT Hitel

     2      2,745

KT Commerce

     —        411

Mobition

     1,415      87

Others

     88      139
    

  

     (Won) 188,073    (Won) 75,228
    

  

 

19. SIGNIFICANT CONTRACTS AND CONTINGENTY LIABILITIES:

 

(1) In 1997, the Company entered into an air-time resale agreement with KT Corporation whereby KT Corporation provides wireless services using the Company’s telecommunications network. As a compensation for providing telecommunications network, the Company receives certain amount of fee calculated based on the outgoing calls generated from KT Corporation’s subscribers multiplied by a rate per minute.

 

(2) As of August 20, 2006, the Company is faced with 20 lawsuits as the defendant for total claims of (Won)12,603 million and has filed 8 lawsuits as the plaintiff for the total claims of (Won)5,946 million. The management of the Company believes the outcomes of these lawsuits will not have a material impact on the financial statement.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

20. SEGMENT INFORMATION:

 

The Company has two reportable operating segments: PCS service and sales of PCS handsets. The segments are managed separately based on the difference in products and services. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in Note 2.

 

Details of the Company’s business segment operations for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 (Won in millions):

 

     PCS service

   PCS handsets

    Total

Operating revenue

   (Won) 4,107,562    (Won) 64,394     (Won) 4,171,956

Operating income

     540,612      (131,050 )     409,562

Ordinary income

     455,470      (138,846 )     316,624

Interest income

     15,049      213       15,262

Interest expense

     91,464      1,700       93,164

Income tax expense

     64,976      2,221       67,197

Depreciation

     657,876      4,263       662,139

Property and equipment, net(*)

     4,035,209      19,234       4,054,443

Capital expenditures

     662,149      57,546       719,695

(*) Construction in progresses is not included.

 

21. RECONCILIATION TO ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES GENERALLY ACCEPTED IN THE UNITED STATES:

 

Accounting practices used by the Company in preparing the accompanying financial statements conform with generally accepted accounting principles in the Republic of Korea (“Korean GAAP”), but do not conform with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). The significant differences applicable to the Company are described below. Other differences do not have a significant effect on either net income or shareholders’ equity.

 

(1) Restatement of previously reported US GAAP information

 

In the process of preparing the condensed consolidated financial statements as of August 20, 2006 and for the period from January 1, 2006 through August 20, 2006, the Company identified errors in its reconciliation to US GAAP as of and for the year ended December 31, 2005. The errors relate to the application of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 141 Business Combination (“SFAS No. 141”) and Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 109 Accounting for Income Tax (“SFAS No. 109”) in connection with the Company’s merger with KTM.Com Co. Ltd (the “Merger”).

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

As stated in Note 21 (9), under U.S. GAAP, assets and liabilities related to the Merger were transferred from KTM.Com Co., Ltd. to the Company at fair value and the difference between the fair value of capital stock issued and the fair value of net assets transferred was recorded as intangible assets and goodwill (for which there was no tax base). The Company also recorded deferred tax liabilities for the goodwill and intangible assets against its additional paid in capital. However, under SFAS No. 109, no deferred taxes should be recognized for such goodwill. In addition, under SFAS 141, the deferred tax liabilities recorded for intangible assets should have been recorded against goodwill and not against additional paid in capital. As a result, the US GAAP amounts previously reported as of December 31, 2005 have been restated as follows (Won in million):

 

     2005

Shareholder’s equity based on U.S. GAAP as previously reported

   (Won) 4,649,584

Effect of restatement:

      

Adjustment to additional paid in capital and retained earnings in connection with 2001

     343,960
    

Shareholder’s equity based on U.S. GAAP as restated

   (Won) 4,993,544
    

 

(2) Consolidated Subsidiary

 

Under Korean GAAP, as explained in Note 1(2) to the condensed consolidated interim financial statements, investments in subsidiaries and controlled entities are consolidated, except for companies with total assets as of the prior year end of less than (Won)7,000 million. Generally, substantial control is deemed to exist when the investor is the largest shareholder and owns more than 30 percent of total outstanding voting stock. However, U.S. GAAP generally requires that all majority-owned subsidiaries be consolidated and that any entity of which the Company owns twenty to fifty percent of total outstanding voting stock not be consolidated; rather that entity should be accounted for under the equity method.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, if a business enterprise has a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity, which is defined by FASB Interpretation No. 46 Revised (“FIN 46R”), the assets, liabilities and results of the activities of the variable interest entity should be included in the consolidated financial statements with those of the business enterprise. Under the Korean GAAP, there is no specific provision for the accounting treatment of variable interest entities.

 

(3) Capitalization of foreign currency translation gain (loss)

 

As explained in Note 2, under previous Korean GAAP, certain unrealized foreign currency translation gains and losses were excluded from the results of operations and included in the cost of property and equipment. However, under U.S. GAAP, all unrealized foreign currency translation gains and losses on monetary assets and liabilities are to be included in the current year’s results of operations.

 

The amounts of foreign currency translation gains and losses included in property and equipment under previous Korean GAAP were adjusted to comply with U.S. GAAP.

 

(4) Interest Capitalization

 

As explained in Note 2, under Korean GAAP, interest expense is not capitalized but expensed as incurred. However, under U.S. GAAP, the Company’s policy is to capitalize interest that would have theoretically been avoided had expenditures not been made for assets, which require a period of time to get them ready for their intended uses.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(5) Licensing Cost

 

Under Korean GAAP, the licensing cost paid by the initial shareholders to obtain the operating licenses prior to the establishment of the Company were not recorded in the accounts of the Company.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, licensing costs were accounted for as an intangible asset and capital surplus at the time of establishment of the Company.

 

Since the Company determined the useful life of licensing cost of second generation (“2G”) service to be indefinite, the Company determined not to amortize the related costs until December 31, 2005.

 

On December 31, 2005, the Korea Communication Act (“Act”) was revised, which is effective July 1, 2006. Under the Act, the right of the use of frequency for second generation (“2G”) will be expired by June, 2011. As such, the Company will amortize licensing cost of 2G of (Won)162,708 million over remaining useful life and amortization expenses for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 is (Won)18,885 million.

 

(6) Deferred Charges

 

Deferred charges in intangibles consist primarily of development costs. The development costs which are recoverable from future earnings are deferred under Korean GAAP.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, development costs are charged to expenses when incurred and are classified as operating expenses.

 

(7) Revenue Recognition

 

Under Korean GAAP, activation fees are recorded as revenue when billed and the related direct incremental acquisition costs are expensed as incurred.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, such amounts are deferred and recognized over the period of the customer relationship.

 

(8) Handset Subsidies to Long-time Mobile Subscribers

 

Under Korean GAAP, handset subsidies are recorded as operating expenses. Under US GAAP, such amounts are recorded as reduction of revenue.

 

(9) Merger with KTM.Com Co., Ltd.

 

Under Korean GAAP, as KT Freetel and KTM.Com Co., Ltd. were subsidiaries of KT Corporation prior to merger, assets and liabilities were transferred from KTM.Com Co., Ltd. to KT Freetel at book value and the difference between the par value of capital stock issued and the value of net assets transferred was recorded in the capital surplus account.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, as KT Freetel and KTM.Com Co., Ltd. were not subsidiaries but equity method investees of KT Corporation prior to merger, assets and liabilities were transferred from KTM.Com Co., Ltd. to KT Freetel at fair value and the difference between the fair value of capital stock issued and the fair value of net assets transferred was recorded as intangible assets and goodwill.

 

The Company classified the intangible assets into two components: subscriber base and goodwill.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(10) Merger with KT ICOM

 

Under Korean GAAP, as KT Freetel and KT ICOM were subsidiaries of KT Corporation prior to the merger, assets and liabilities were transferred from KT ICOM to KT Freetel at book value as shown in the consolidated financial statements of KT Corporation and the difference between the par value of capital stock issued and the value of net assets transferred was recorded in the capital surplus account.

 

The merger was not accounted for as a merger of entities under common control as KT Freetel and KT ICOM are not subsidiaries of KT Corporation under U.S. GAAP.

 

Under U.S. GAAP, assets and liabilities were transferred from KT ICOM to KT Freetel at fair value. As the fair value of net assets transferred amounting to (Won)228,244 million exceeded the fair value of capital stock issued amounting to (Won)190,755 million, the non-current assets of (Won)37,489 million were reduced proportionally.

 

(11) Goodwill and Other Intangibles

 

Under Korean GAAP, the purchase price over the fair value of net assets being acquired was recorded as goodwill and it is amortized over 5 years. Impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the fair value.

 

Under SFAS No. 142—“Goodwill and Intangible Assets”, intangible assets with finite lives continue to be amortized over their useful economic lives. Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives are not amortized, but tested for impairment, at least annually.

 

In accordance with SFAS No. 142, the goodwill and intangibles acquired from KTM.Com and KT ICOM, and amortization expense for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 are as follows (won in millions):

 

                    Amortization expense

          Initial amount

   Beginning of period

   2006

KTM.Com

  

Goodwill (*)

   (Won) 753,065    702,861    (Won) —  
    

Subscriber base

     605,563    —        —  
    

Licensing cost (*)

     83,875    80,208      9,309

KT ICOM

  

Frequency use right

     1,194,045    1,000,212      55,966

 

This goodwill and licensing cost were amortized over the estimated periods to be benefited until 2001 before the adoption of SFAS No. 142.

 

Since the Company determined the useful life of licensing cost of second generation (“2G”) service to be indefinite, the Company determined not to amortize the related costs until December 31, 2005.

 

On December 31, 2005, the Korea Communication Act (“Act”) was revised, which is effective July 1, 2006. Under the Act, the right of the use of frequency for second generation (“2G”) will be expired by June, 2011. As such, the Company will amortize licensing cost of 2G of (Won)80,208 million over remaining useful life.

 

(12) Disposal of Trade Accounts and Notes Receivable

 

Under Korean GAAP, the transactions between KT Freetel and Shinhan Bank Trust are recorded as a sale of trade accounts and notes receivable. Under U.S. GAAP, those transactions do not qualify for sale accounting and as such, the transactions are classified as borrowings.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(13) Investor-level goodwill

 

Under Korean GAAP, for investments in affiliated companies accounted for using the equity method, the excess of acquisition cost of the affiliates over the Company’s share of their net assets at the acquisition date is being amortized by the straight-line method over its estimated useful life. Under U.S. GAAP, the investor-level goodwill is not amortized, but instead tested for impairment in accordance with APB No. 18. The investor-level goodwill which is recorded only at the investor’s financial statements represents the excess of the acquisition cost of equity method investees over the fair value of investor’s share of net identifiable assets acquired.

 

(14) Additional Equity Investment in Subsidiaries

 

Under Korean GAAP, when additional interest is acquired after acquiring a majority interest in a subsidiary, the differences between the Company’s acquisition cost of the additional interest and the corresponding carrying amount of the acquired additional interest in a subsidiary is presented as an adjustment to capital surplus. Under U.S. GAAP, the cost of an additional interest would be allocated based on the fair value of net assets at the time the additional interest is acquired, with the excess allocated to goodwill.

 

(15) Minority Interests in Consolidated Subsidiary

 

Under Korean GAAP, minority interests in consolidated subsidiaries are presented as a component of shareholders’ equity in the consolidated balance sheets. Under U.S. GAAP, minority interests in consolidated subsidiaries are not included in shareholders’ equity; rather, it is presented between liabilities and shareholders’ equity item in the consolidated balance sheets.

 

(16) Accrued Severance Benefits

 

Under the Korean labor law, employees with more than one year of service are entitled to receive a lump sum payment upon voluntary or involuntary termination of their employment. The amount of the benefit is based on the terminated employee’s length of employment and rate of pay prior to termination. Korean GAAP requires that a company record the vested benefit obligation at the balance sheet date assuming all employees were to terminate their employment as of that date. The change in the vested benefit obligation during the year is recorded as the current year’s severance expense.

 

Under US GAAP, the accrual for severance indemnities is also computed as if all employees were to terminate at the balance sheet date as allowed under EITF 88-1, “Determination of Vested Benefit Obligation for a Defined Benefit Pension Plan.”

 

The Company expects to pay the following future benefits over next 10 years to its employees upon their normal retirement age (Won in million):

 

Year


   Amount

Prior to September 2012

     —  

September 2012 – August 2013

   (Won) 51

September 2013 – August 2014

     426

September 2014 – August 2015

     1,532

September 2015 – August 2016

     3,675
    

     (Won) 5,684
    

 

The above amounts were determined based on the employees’ current salary rates and the number of service years that will be accumulated upon their expected retirement date. These amounts do not include amounts that might be paid to employees that will cease working with the Company before their normal retirement age.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(17) Comprehensive Income

 

Under the Korean GAAP, there is no requirement to present comprehensive income. Whereas, U.S. GAAP requires to present comprehensive income and its components in the financial statements. Comprehensive income includes all changes in shareholders’ equity during a period except those resulting from investment by, or distribution to owners, including certain items not included in the current year’s results of operations.

 

Comprehensive income and other comprehensive income for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 are summarized as follows (Won in million):

 

     Korean Won

 

Net income as adjusted in accordance with U.S.GAAP

   (Won) 234,093  
    


Other comprehensive income, net of tax:

        

Foreign currency translation adjustments

     42  

Unrealized gain on investments, net of tax of (Won)135 million

     357  

Realized loss included in earnings due to sale of investment securities, net of tax of (Won)1,400 million

     (3,691 )
    


Comprehensive income as adjusted in accordance with U.S. GAAP

   (Won) 230,801  
    


Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) balance Under U.S GAAP

        

Foreign currency translation adjustments

   (Won) (47 )

Unrealized gain on investments

     2,924  
    


     (Won) 2,877  
    


 

(18) New Accounting Pronouncements

 

In July 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (FIN 48). FIN 48 requires the use of a two-step approach for recognizing and measuring tax benefits taken or expected to be taken in a tax return and disclosures regarding uncertainties in income tax positions. We are required to adopt FIN 48 effective January 1, 2007. The cumulative effect of initially adopting FIN 48 will be recorded as an adjustment to opening retained earnings in the year of adoption and will be presented separately. Only tax positions that meet the more likely than not recognition threshold at the effective date may be recognized upon adoption of FIN 48. We are currently evaluating the impact this new standard will have on our future results of operations and financial position.

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 157, Fair Value Measurement (SFAS No. 157). SFAS No. 157 expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles and establishes a hierarchy that categorizes and prioritizes the sources to be used to estimate fair value. We are required to adopt SFAS No. 157 effective January 1, 2008 on a prospective basis. We are currently evaluating the impact this new standard will have on our future results of operations and financial position.

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 158, Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans-an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106, and 132(R) (SFAS No. 158). SFAS No. 158 requires the recognition of a defined benefit postretirement plan’s funded status as either an asset or liability on the balance sheet. SFAS No. 158 also requires the immediate recognition of the unrecognized actuarial gains and losses and prior service costs and credits that arise during the period as a component of other accumulated comprehensive income, net of applicable income taxes. Additionally, the fair value of plan assets must be determined as of the company’s year-end. We are required to adopt SFAS No. 158 effective December 31, 2006. We are currently evaluating the impact this new standard will have on our future results of operations and financial position.

 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(19) Effect on Net Earnings and Shareholders’ Equity

 

The effects of the significant adjustments to net earnings and shareholders’ equity that are required if U.S. GAAP were applied instead of Korean GAAP for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 and as of August 20, 2006 are summarized as follows (won in millions, except per share amounts):

 

     2006

 

Net income under Korean GAAP

   (Won) 229,474  
    


Adjustments:

        

(3) Capitalization of foreign currency translation loss, net

     (287 )

(4) Interest capitalization

     (1,777 )

(5) Licensing cost

     (18,885 )

(6) Deferred charges(*)

     5,389  

(7) Revenue recognition

     (7,305 )

(10) Merger with KT ICOM

     5,157  

(12) Disposal of trade accounts and notes receivable

     (79 )

(13) Investor-level goodwill

     1,413  

Deferred tax effect of U.S. GAAP adjustments

     20,993  
    


       4,619  
    


Adjusted net income under U.S. GAAP

   (Won) 234,093  
    


Basic earnings per share

   (Won) 1,164  
    



(*) Including the impairment loss of development cost of (Won)6,218 million (net of minority interests)

 

     2006

 

Shareholders’ equity under Korean GAAP

   (Won) 4,292,998  
    


Adjustments:

        

(3) Capitalization of foreign currency translation gain (loss), net

     (894 )

(4) Interest capitalization

     66,962  

(5) Licensing cost

     143,823  

(6) Deferred charges(*)

     (6,572 )

(7) Revenue recognition

     (13,471 )

(9) Merger with KTM.Com

     688,653  

(10) Merger with KT ICOM

     (42,162 )

(12) Disposal of trade accounts and notes receivable

     68  

(13) Investor-level goodwill

     1,413  

(14) Additional equity investment in subsidiaries

     1,132  

(15) Minority interests in consolidated subsidiary

     (5,698 )

Deferred tax effect of U.S.GAAP adjustments

     (36,727 )
    


       796,527  
    


Shareholders’ equity under U.S. GAAP

   (Won) 5,089,525  
    


 

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KT FREETEL CO., LTD. AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(20) Cash flow statement

 

The following table reconciles cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities for eight months ended August 20, 2006 under Korean GAAP, as reported in the condensed consolidated interim financial statements to cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities for the period from January 1, 2006 to August 20, 2006 under U.S. GAAP (in millions of Korean won) :

 

     2006

 

Cash flows from operating activities based on Korean GAAP

   (Won) 1,094,810  

Adjustments :

        

Trading securities

     (32,545 )
    


Cash flows from operating activities based on U.S. GAAP

   (Won) 1,062,265  
    


Cash flows from investing activities based on Korean GAAP

   (Won) (704,527 )

Adjustments :

        

Trading securities

     32,545  
    


Cash flows from investing activities based on U.S. GAAP

   (Won) (671,982 )
    


Cash flows from financing activities based on Korean GAAP

   (Won) (403,875 )

Adjustments

     —    
    


Cash flows from financing activities based on U.S. GAAP

   (Won) (403,875 )
    


Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period based on Korean GAAP

   (Won) 278,790  

Adjustments

     —    
    


Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period based on U.S. GAAP

   (Won) 278,790  
    


 

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SIGNATURES

 

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.

 

KT CORPORATION
(Registrant)
/s/ JOONG-SOO NAM
Name:   Joong-Soo Nam
Title:   President and Chief Executive Officer

 

Date: June 27, 2007