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

As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 29, 2011

 

 

 

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

Form 20-F

 

¨ 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, 2010

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)

 

KT Corporation   The Republic of Korea
(Translation of Registrant’s name into English)   (Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

206 Jungja-dong

Bundang-ku, Sungnam, Gyunggi-do

463-711 Korea

(Address of principal executive offices)

Thomas Bum Joon Kim

206 Jungja-dong

Bundang-ku, Sungnam, Gyunggi-do

463-711 Korea

Telephone: +82-31-727-0150; E-mail: thomaskim@kt.com

(Name, telephone, e-mail and/or facsimile number and address of company contact person)

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   

New York Stock Exchange, Inc.

one-half of one share of common stock   
Common Stock, par value (Won)5,000 per share*   

New York Stock Exchange, Inc.*

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

None

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

None

As of December 31, 2010, there were 243,215,844 shares of common stock, par value (Won)5,000 per share, outstanding

(not including 17,895,964 shares of common stock held by the company as treasury shares)

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 has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  ¨    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 basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing. U.S. GAAP  ¨    IFRS  ¨    Other  x

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, 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

 

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

 

 

 


Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

              Page  

PART I

     1   

ITEM 1.

 

IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGERS AND ADVISERS

     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 2.A.

  

Offer Statistics

     1   
 

Item 2.B.

  

Method and Expected Timetable

     1   

ITEM 3.

 

KEY INFORMATION

     2   
 

Item 3.A.

  

Selected Financial Data

     2   
 

Item 3.B.

  

Capitalization and Indebtedness

     4   
 

Item 3.C.

  

Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

     5   
 

Item 3.D.

  

Risk Factors

     5   

ITEM 4.

 

INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

     16   
 

Item 4.A.

  

History and Development of the Company

     16   
 

Item 4.B.

  

Business Overview

     17   
 

Item 4.C.

  

Organizational Structure

     41   
 

Item 4.D.

  

Property, Plants and Equipment

     41   

ITEM 4A.

 

UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

     44   

ITEM 5.

 

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

     44   
 

Item 5.A.

  

Operating Results

     44   
 

Item 5.B.

  

Liquidity and Capital Resources

     63   
 

Item 5.C.

  

Research and Development, Patents and Licenses, Etc.

     70   
 

Item 5.D.

  

Trend Information

     71   
 

Item 5.E.

  

Off-balance Sheet Arrangements

     71   
 

Item 5.F.

  

Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations

     71   
 

Item 5.G.

  

Safe Harbor

     71   

ITEM 6.

 

DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

     71   
 

Item 6.A.

  

Directors and Senior Management

     71   
 

Item 6.B.

  

Compensation

     78   
 

Item 6.C.

  

Board Practices

     78   
 

Item 6.D.

  

Employees

     80   
 

Item 6.E.

  

Share Ownership

     82   

 

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

(continued)

 

              Page  

ITEM 7.

 

MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

     82   
 

Item 7.A.

  

Major Shareholders

     82   
 

Item 7.B.

  

Related Party Transactions

     82   
  Item 7.C.    Interests of Experts and Counsel      83   

ITEM 8.

 

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

     83   
 

Item 8.A.

  

Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

     83   
 

Item 8.B.

  

Significant Changes

     84   

ITEM 9.

 

THE OFFER AND LISTING

     84   
 

Item 9.A.

  

Offer and Listing Details

     84   
 

Item 9.B.

  

Plan of Distribution

     85   
 

Item 9.C.

  

Markets

     85   
 

Item 9.D.

  

Selling Shareholders

     89   
 

Item 9.E.

  

Dilution

     90   
 

Item 9.F.

  

Expenses of the Issuer

     90   

ITEM 10.

 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

     90   
 

Item 10.A.

  

Share Capital

     90   
 

Item 10.B.

  

Memorandum and Articles of Association

     90   
 

Item 10.C.

  

Material Contracts

     96   
 

Item 10.D.

  

Exchange Controls

     97   
 

Item 10.E.

  

Taxation

     101   
 

Item 10.F.

  

Dividends and Paying Agents

     106   
 

Item 10.G.

  

Statements by Experts

     106   
 

Item 10.H.

  

Documents on Display

     106   
 

Item 10.I.

  

Subsidiary Information

     106   

ITEM 11.

 

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

     106   

ITEM 12.

 

DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

     108   
 

Item 12.A.

  

Debt Securities

     108   
 

Item 12.B.

  

Warrants and Rights

     108   
 

Item 12.C.

  

Other Securities

     108   
 

Item 12.D.

  

American Depositary Shares

     109   

PART II

     110   

ITEM 13.

 

DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

     110   

 

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

(continued)

 

              Page  

ITEM 14.

   MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS      110   

ITEM 15.

  

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

     110   

ITEM 16.

  

[Reserved]

     111   

ITEM 16A.

  

AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

     111   

ITEM 16B.

  

CODE OF ETHICS

     112   

ITEM 16C.

  

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

     112   

ITEM 16D.

   EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES      112   

ITEM 16E.

   PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS      113   

ITEM 16F.

  

CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT

     113   

ITEM 16G.

  

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

     113   

PART III

     115   

ITEM 17.

  

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

     115   

ITEM 18.

  

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

     115   

ITEM 19.

  

EXHIBITS

     115   

 

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PRESENTATION

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

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. Our monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency are translated into Won at the market average exchange rate announced by Seoul Money Brokerage Services, Ltd. on the balance sheet dates, which were, for U.S. dollars, (Won)1,257.5 to US$1.00, (Won)1,167.6 to US$1.00 and (Won)1,138.9 to US$1.00 at December 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010, respectively. 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, 2010 have been translated into United States dollars at the rate of (Won)1,138.9 to US$1.00, the market average exchange rate announced by Seoul Money Brokerage Services, Ltd. and in effect on December 31, 2010.

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

All market share data contained in this annual report, unless otherwise specified, are based on the number of subscribers announced by the Korea Communications Commission or the Korea Telecommunications Operators Association.

PART I

Item 1.  Identity of Directors, Senior Managers and Advisers

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

Item 2.A.  Offer Statistics

Not applicable.

Item 2.B.  Method and Expected Timetable

Not applicable.

 

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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, 2009 and 2010 and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2010, and the reports of the independent registered public accounting firms on these statements included herein. The selected consolidated financial data for the five years ended December 31, 2010 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 38 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of the nature and the effect of such differences.

Income Statement Data

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2006      2007      2008     2009     2010      2010  
     (In billions of Won and millions of Dollars, except per share data)  

Korean GAAP (1):

               

Operating revenues

   (Won) 17,825       (Won) 18,614       (Won) 19,587      (Won) 19,644      (Won) 21,331       US$ 18,730   

Operating expenses

     15,442         16,859         18,144        18,673        19,156         16,820   

Operating income

     2,383         1,755         1,443        971        2,175         1,910   

Non-operating income

     565         486         1,050        808        523         459   

Non-operating expenses

     962         783         1,783        1,059        1,136         998   

Income tax expense on continuing operations

     476         357         168        108        372         326   

Income from continuing operations

     1,510         1,106         542        612        1,190         1,045   

Income (loss) from discontinued operations

             65         (29     (2     3         2   

Net Income

     1,510         1,171         513        610        1,193         1,047   

Controlling interest net income

     1,292         1,056         450        495        1,168         1,026   

Minority interest net income

     218         115         63        115        25         22   

Basic income per share from continuing operations

     6,153         4,783         2,319        2,225        4,797         4.21   

Basic net income per share (2)

     6,155         5,112         2,217        2,254        4,803         4.22   

Diluted income per share from continuing operations

     6,146         4,783         2,319        2,199        4,797         4.21   

Diluted net income per share (3)

     6,148         5,112         2,217        2,227        4,802         4.22   

Dividends per share (4)

     2,000         2,000         1,120        2,000        2,410         2.12   

U.S. GAAP (5):

               

Operating revenues

   (Won) 14,088       (Won) 17,953       (Won) 18,599      (Won) 18,891      (Won) 20,088       US$ 17,638   

Operating income

     1,868         1,499         1,197        992        1,899         1,667   

Income taxes

     357         270         178        118        374         328   

Income from continuing operations

     1,423         1,087         577        841        1,196         1,050   

Income (loss) from discontinuing operations

             73         (4     (1               

Net Income (6)

     1,423         1,160         573        840        1,196         1,050   

Attributable to KT stockholders

     1,329         1,069         518        742        1,186         1,041   

Attributable to noncontrolling interests

     94         91         55        98        10         9   

Basic income per share from continuing operations

     6,331         4,821         2,571        3,382        4,876         4.28   

Basic income per share (2)

     6,333         5,172         2,554        3,380        4,876         4.28   

Diluted income per share from continuing operations

     6,325         4,821         2,571        3,332        4,876         4.28   

Diluted income per share (3)

     6,327         5,172         2,554        3,330        4,876         4.28   

 

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Balance Sheet Data

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2006      2007      2008      2009      2010      2010  
     (In billions of Won and millions of Dollars)  

Korean GAAP (1):

                 

Working capital (7)

   (Won) 558       (Won) 564       (Won) 1,833       (Won) 1,031       (Won) 643       US$ 565   

Net property and equipment

     15,167         15,288         15,189         14,775         15,228         13,371   

Total assets

     24,243         24,127         26,139         26,620         27,713         24,334   

Long term debt, excluding current portion

     6,097         5,973         7,947         7,536         7,219         6,338   

Refundable deposits for telephone installation

     907         841         782         696         615         541   

Total equity

     10,697         11,138         11,088         10,667         11,496         10,094   

U.S. GAAP (5):

                 

Working capital (7)

   (Won) 333       (Won) 332       (Won) 1,640       (Won) 845       (Won) 584       US$ 513   

Net property and equipment

     14,729         14,671         14,460         14,041         13,682         12,013   

Total assets

     24,098         24,023         25,974         26,526         26,603         23,359   

Total equity

     10,221         10,589         10,609         10,456         11,100         9,746   

Stockholders’ equity

     8,038         8,438         8,490         10,287         10,929         9,596   

Noncontrolling interests

     2,183         2,151         2,119         169         171         150   

Other Financial Data

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2006     2007     2008     2009     2010     2010  
     (In billions of Won and millions of Dollars)  

Korean GAAP:

            

Net cash provided by operating activities

   (Won) 5,714      (Won) 4,265      (Won) 2,920      (Won) 3,399      (Won) 3,245      US$ 2,849   

Net cash used in investing activities

     (3,061     (3,449     (3,532     (2,872     (3,436     (3,017

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     (2,367     (1,368     1,051        (930     (129     (113

U.S. GAAP (5):

            

Net cash provided by operating activities

   (Won) 4,667      (Won) 4,260      (Won) 2,889      (Won) 3,338      (Won) 3,022      US$ 2,653   

Net cash used in investing activities

     (2,432     (3,410     (3,502     (2,818     (3,277     (2,877

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     (1,671     (1,271     1,147        (901     (117     (103

Operating Data

 

     As of December 31,  
     2006      2007      2008      2009      2010  

Lines installed (thousands) (8)

     26,838         26,671         26,008         25,907         25,524   

Lines in service (thousands) (8)

     20,331         19,980         18,883         17,069         16,620   

Lines in service per 100 inhabitants (8)

     42.0         41.2         38.8         35.0         34.0   

Mobile subscribers (thousands)

     12,914         13,721         14,365         15,016         16,041   

Broadband Internet subscribers (thousands)

     6,353         6,516         6,712         6,953         7,424   

 

 

(1) Through December 31, 2008, the Korea Accounting Standards Board has issued Statements of Korea Accounting Standards (“SKAS”) No. 1 through No. 25. Among these statements, SKAS No. 1 through No. 10 and SKAS No. 12 through No. 20 are required to be applied in the prior periods. Although SKAS No. 11 and SKAS No. 21 through No. 25 are required to be applied starting in 2007, the balances of 2006 have been reclassified in accordance with Statements of Korea Accounting Standards No. 16 and No. 21 for comparison purposes.

 

(2) 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 209,895 thousand for 2006, 206,599 thousand for 2007, 202,891 thousand for 2008, 219,513 thousand for 2009 and 243,207 thousand for 2010.

 

(3) 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 210,150 thousand for 2006, 206,599 thousand for 2007, 202,891 thousand for 2008, 224,168 thousand for 2009 and 243,225 thousand for 2010.

 

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(4) The calculation of dividends per share represents the weighted average dividends paid per share.

 

(5) See Note 38 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for reconciliation to U.S. GAAP.

 

(6) In December 2007, the Financial Accounting Standard Board issued and amended an accounting standard that requires that the noncontrolling interest in the equity of a subsidiary be accounted for and reported as equity in consolidated financial statements. With the adoption of the amended standard, net income attributable to noncontrolling interests is included in net income. We retrospectively adopted the presentation and disclosure requirements of the standard for all of the financial statements and information included herein on January 1, 2009.

 

(7) “Working capital” means current assets minus current liabilities.

 

(8) Including public telephones.

Exchange Rate Information

The following table sets out information concerning the market average exchange rate for the periods and dates indicated.

 

Period

   At End of
Period
     Average
Rate (1)
     High      Low  
     (Won per US$1.00)  

2006

     929.6         956.1         1,013.0         918.0   

2007

     938.2         929.2         950.0         902.2   

2008

     1,257.5         1,102.6         1,509.0         934.5   

2009

     1,167.6         1,276.4         1,573.6         1,152.8   

2010

     1,138.9         1,156.3         1,261.5         1,104.0   

December

     1,138.9         1,147.6         1,164.9         1,133.6   

2011 (through June 28)

     1,086.7         1,102.2         1,138.9         1,066.8   

January

     1,114.3         1,120.1         1,138.9         1,112.2   

February

     1,127.9         1,118.1         1,127.9         1,104.4   

March

     1,107.2         1,122.5         1,137.6         1,107.2   

April

     1,072.3         1,086.8         1,100.1         1,072.3   

May

     1,080.6         1,083.5         1,096.3         1,066.8   

June (through June 28)

     1,086.7         1,081.4         1,088.9         1,075.0   

 

Source: Seoul Money Brokerage Services, Ltd.

 

(1) The average rate for each full year is calculated as the average of the market average exchange 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 market average exchange rates on each business day during the relevant month (or portion thereof).

Our monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency are translated into Won at the market average exchange rate announced by Seoul Money Brokerage Services, Ltd. on the balance sheet dates, which were, for U.S. dollars, (Won)1,257.5 to US$1.00, (Won)1,167.6 to US$1.00 and (Won)1,138.9 to US$1.00 at December 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010, respectively.

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, 2010 have been translated into United States dollars at the rate of (Won)1,138.9 to US$1.00, the market average exchange rate announced by Seoul Money Brokerage Services, Ltd. and in effect on December 31, 2010.

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

 

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

Not applicable.

Item 3.D.  Risk Factors

You should carefully consider the following factors.

Risks Relating to Our Business

Competition in the Korean telecommunications industry is intense.

Competition in the telecommunications sector in Korea is intense. In recent years, business combinations in the telecommunications industry have significantly changed the competitive landscape of the Korean telecommunications industry. In particular, SK Telecom Co., Ltd. (or SK Telecom) acquired a controlling stake in Hanarotelecom Incorporated in 2008, which was renamed SK Broadband Co., Ltd. (or SK Broadband). The acquisition enables SK Telecom to provide fixed-line telecommunications, broadband Internet access and Internet television (or IP-TV) services together with its mobile telecommunications services. On January 1, 2010, LG Dacom Corporation (or LG Dacom) and LG Powercom Co., Ltd. (or LG Powercom) merged into LG Telecom Co., Ltd., which subsequently changed its name to LG U+. The merger enables LG U+ to provide a similar range of services as SK Telecom and us. Our inability to adapt to such changes in the competitive landscape could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Mobile Service. We provide mobile services based on Code Division Multiple Access (or CDMA) technology and Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (or W-CDMA) technology. Competitors in the mobile telecommunications service industry are SK Telecom and LG U+. We had a market share of 31.6% as of December 31, 2010, making us the second largest mobile telecommunications service provider. SK Telecom had a market share of 50.6% as of December 31, 2010.

Mobile subscribers are allowed to switch their service provider while retaining the same mobile phone number. Mobile service providers also grant subsidies to subscribers who purchase new handsets and agree to a minimum subscription period. Mobile number portability and handset subsidies have intensified competition among the mobile service providers and increased 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 our net profit margins.

In recent years, SK Telecom and we also launched third-generation mobile telecommunications services, which we believe have further intensified competition between the two companies and resulted in an increase in marketing expenses. We expanded our coverage area of High Speed Downlink Packet Access (or HSDPA)-based IMT-2000 services nationwide in March 2007. 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 SK Telecom will face similar challenges to those that we expect to face in implementing this third-generation technology, we cannot assure you that we will continue to be able to successfully compete in third-generation mobile telecommunications services.

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 U+ and SK Broadband currently provide local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance telephone services. In addition, Onse Telecom Corporation and SK Telink, Inc. currently provide domestic long-distance and

 

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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. While we offer our own Internet phone service, 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. As of December 31, 2010, we had a market share in local telephone service of 86.3% and a market share in domestic long distance service of 82.2%. Further increase in competition may decrease our market shares in such businesses.

Internet Services. The Korean broadband Internet access service market has experienced significant growth in the past decade. SK Broadband (formerly Hanarotelecom) entered the broadband market in 1999 offering both Hybrid Fiber Coaxial (or 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 U+. In recent years, numerous cable television operators have also begun to offer HFC-based services at rates lower than ours. We had a market share of 43.1% as of December 31, 2010. 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.

The market for other Internet-related services in Korea, including IP-TV and Internet phone services, 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 of the Internet industry in Korea has attracted 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.

We may fail to realize the anticipated benefits of the merger of KTF into KT Corporation.

On June 1, 2009, KTF merged into KT Corporation, with KT Corporation surviving the merger. The success of the merger of KTF with KT Corporation will depend, in part, on our ability to realize the anticipated synergies, growth opportunities and, to a lesser extent, cost savings from combining these two companies. The realization of these anticipated benefits may be impeded, delayed or reduced as a result of numerous factors, some of which are outside our control. These factors include:

 

   

difficulties in integrating the operations of KTF with those of KT Corporation, including information systems, personnel, policies and procedures, and in reorganizing or reducing overlapping personnel, operations, marketing networks and administrative functions;

 

   

unforeseen contingent risks or latent liabilities relating to the merger that may become apparent in the future;

 

   

difficulties in managing a larger business; and

 

   

loss of key management personnel or customers.

Accordingly, we cannot assure you that we will realize the anticipated benefits of the merger or that the merger will not adversely affect our combined business, financial condition and results of operations.

The integration of the operations of KTF into KT Corporation may require significant amounts of time, financial resources and management attention. KT Corporation’s management intends to implement a business plan to effectively combine the operations of KTF with the operations of

 

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KT Corporation. If this business plan is not effective in integrating these operations, however, we may not realize the anticipated benefits of the merger. The integration process could also result in the disruption of our ongoing business and information technology systems, or inconsistencies in standards, controls, procedures and policies and a reduction in employee morale, each of which may adversely affect our ability to maintain relationships with customers and to retain key personnel.

In addition, as conditions to the approval of the merger of KTF into KT Corporation, the Korea Communications Commission is requiring us to (i) allow competing service providers to have greater access to our cable tunnels and telephone poles, (ii) improve Public Switched Telephone Network (or PSTN) number portability and voice over Internet protocol (or VoIP) number portability, and (iii) allow competing service providers to access our wireless Internet network. Such conditions may intensify competition in the telecommunications industry, which could have a material adverse effect on the number of our subscribers and results of operations.

Failure to renew existing bandwidth spectrum, acquire adequate additional bandwidth spectrum or use our bandwidth efficiently may adversely affect our mobile telecommunications business and results of operations.

One of the principal limitations on a wireless network’s subscriber capacity is the amount of bandwidth spectrum allocated to the service provider. Our current right to use 40 MHz of bandwidth in the 1.8 GHz spectrum is scheduled to expire at the end of June 2011. We have applied to the Korea Communications Commission to allocate back to us 20 MHz of bandwidth in the 1.8 GHz spectrum, for which we expect to pay a usage fee if reallocated to us. In addition, the Korea Communications Commission allocated 20 MHz of bandwidth in the 900 MHz spectrum to us, which will become effective on July 1, 2011. We expect to pay a portion of the actual sales generated from using the bandwidth in the 900 MHz spectrum during the license period of 10 years as a usage fee for the bandwidth, as well as a portion of expected sales as determined by the Korea Communications Commission at the time of allocation. In June 2011, the Korea Communications Commission announced its plan to auction in August 2011 the right to use 20 MHz of bandwidth in the 1.8 GHz spectrum that we are scheduled to relinquish at the end of June 2011, 10 MHz of additional bandwidth in the 800 MHz spectrum and 20 MHz of additional bandwidth in the 2.1 GHz spectrum. According to the plan, a maximum of 20 MHz of bandwidth may be sold to a single service provider, and SK Telecom and we are prohibited from bidding for the 20 MHz bandwidth in the 2.1 GHz spectrum. If we are allocated the bandwidths in the 800 MHz or the 1.8 GHz spectrums, we expect to pay usage fees for such bandwidths. The growth of our mobile telecommunications business and the increase in usage of wireless data transmission services have been significant factors in the increased utilization of our bandwidth, since wireless data applications are generally more bandwidth-intensive than voice services. The current trend of increasing data transmission use and the increasing sophistication of multimedia contents are likely to put additional strain on the bandwidth capacity of mobile service providers. In the event we are unable to maintain sufficient bandwidth capacity by renewing existing bandwidth spectrum, receiving additional bandwidth allocation, or cost-effectively implementing technologies that enhance bandwidth usage efficiency, our subscribers may perceive a general decrease in quality of mobile telecommunications services. No assurance can be given that bandwidth constraints will not adversely affect the growth of our mobile telecommunications business.

Termination of our second generation Personal Communications Service (or 2G PCS) services may pose risks to us.

We have been providing our 2G PCS services based on CDMA wireless network standards through our 40 MHz bandwidth in the 1.8 GHz spectrum, which allocation is expected to terminate at the end of June 2011. As part of our decision to apply for reallocation, we have applied to the Korea Communications Commission to terminate our existing 2G PCS services, which we expect to be able

 

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to terminate in the second half of 2011. Accordingly, our existing 2G PCS subscribers must either convert to our W-CDMA services or switch to other telecommunications companies. As of December 31, 2010, there were 1,393 thousand subscribers of our 2G PCS services. We are offering benefits such as substantial discounts on W-CDMA-compatible handsets and monthly subscription fees starting in March 2011 to encourage our existing subscribers to switch to our W-CDMA services. However, there can be no assurance that we will not incur reputational damage from terminating our 2G PCS services, such termination will not lead to a material decrease in the number of our mobile subscribers, or complaints and other potential actions of our 2G PCS subscribers will not adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Introduction of new services poses challenges and risks to us.

The telecommunications industry is characterized by continual advances and improvements in telecommunications technology, and we have been continually researching and implementing technology upgrades and additional telecommunication services to maintain our competitiveness. For example, in March 2005, we acquired a license to provide wireless broadband Internet access (or WiBro) service for (Won)126 billion, and commercially launched our service in June 2006. We completed the upgrade of our 4G WiBro network and expanded our WiBro service coverage to 82 cities nationwide and major highways as of March 2011, which we believe will allow us to provide WiBro services at speeds that are approximately three times faster than our previous 3G network at a lower cost, and had approximately 377 thousand subscribers as of December 31, 2010. In addition, we are currently upgrading our broadband network to enable FTTH connection, which enhances downstream speed and connection quality. 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 enables us to deliver enhanced products and services that require high bandwidth, such as IP-TV service and delivery of other digital media content. No assurance can be given that our new services will gain broad market acceptance such that we will be able to derive revenues from such services to justify the license fee, capital expenditures and other investments required to provide such services.

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 or unrests in recent years, there can be no assurance that we will not experience labor disputes or unrests in the future, including expanded protests and strikes, which could disrupt our business operations and have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

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 on May 23, 2013. 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 labor disputes and unrests resulting from disagreements with the labor union in the future.

The Korean telecommunications and Internet protocol broadcasting industries are subject to extensive Government regulations, and changes in Government policy relating to these industries could have a material adverse effect on our operations and financial condition.

The Government, primarily through the Korea Communications Commission, has authority to regulate the telecommunications industry. The Korea Communications Commission’s policy is to

 

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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.

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 Korea Communications Commission, it must obtain prior approval from the Korea Communications Commission for the rates and the general terms for that service. Each year the Korea Communications Commission designates service providers the rates and the general terms of which must be approved by the Korea Communications Commission. In recent years, the Korea Communications Commission has so designated us for local telephone service and SK Telecom for mobile service, and the Korea Communications Commission, in consultation with the Ministry of Strategy and Finance, currently approves rates charged by us and SK Telecom for such services. In June 2011, SK Telecom announced tariff reduction measures, including a reduction of the monthly fee by (Won)1,000 for every subscriber, an exemption of usage charges for short text message service, or SMS, up to 50 messages per month and the introduction of flexible service plans for smartphone users. The Korea Communications Commission currently does not regulate our domestic long-distance, international long-distance, broadband internet access and mobile service rates, but the inability to freely set our local telephone service rates may hurt profits from such 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 Korea Communications Commission.

The Government also sets the policies regarding the use of radio frequencies and allocates the spectrum of radio frequencies used for wireless telecommunications. On April 29, 2010, the Korea Communications Commission announced its decision to allocate 20 MHz of bandwidth in the 900 MHz spectrum to us, 20 MHz of bandwidth in the 800 MHz spectrum to LG U+ (consisting of 15 MHz of bandwidth that is scheduled to be relinquished by SK Telecom by the end of June 2011 following expiration of its license period and 5 MHz of currently unused bandwidth) and 20 MHz of bandwidth in the 2.1 GHz spectrum to SK Telecom, which SK Telecom began using in June 2010. New allocations of bandwidth to us and LG U+ will become effective on July 1, 2011. We expect to pay a portion of the actual sales generated from using the bandwidth in the 900 MHz spectrum during the license period of 10 years as a usage fee for the bandwidth, as well as a portion of expected sales as determined by the Korea Communications Commission at the time of allocation. In June 2011, the Korea Communications Commission announced its plan to auction in August 2011 the right to use 20 MHz of bandwidth in the 1.8 GHz spectrum that we are scheduled to relinquish at the end of June 2011, 10 MHz of additional bandwidth in the 800 MHz spectrum and 20 MHz of additional bandwidth in the 2.1 GHz spectrum. According to the plan, a maximum of 20 MHz of bandwidth may be sold to a single service provider, and SK Telecom and we are prohibited from bidding for the 20 MHz bandwidth in the 2.1 GHz spectrum. If we are allocated the bandwidths in the 800 MHz or the 1.8 GHz spectrums, we expect to pay usage fees for such bandwidths. The new allocations of bandwidth could increase competition among wireless service providers, which may have an adverse effect on our business.

We also plan to put more focus on the Internet protocol (or IP) media market, and we began offering IP-TV service on November 17, 2008. IP-TV is a service which combines video-on-demand services with real-time high definition broadcasting via broadband networks. The Korea Communications Commission has the authority to regulate the IP media market, including IP-TV services. Under the Internet Multimedia Broadcasting Business Act, anyone intending to engage in the IP media broadcasting business must obtain a license from the Korea Communications Commission, and anyone intending to engage in the broadcasting of certain contents must obtain additional approval of the Korea Communications Commission. In addition, KT Skylife Co. (formerly Korea Digital Satellite

 

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Broadcasting Co., Ltd.), which became our consolidated subsidiary starting in 2011, offers satellite TV services, which may also be packaged with our IP-TV services. KT Skylife is also subject to the regulation of the Korea Communications Commission pursuant to the Korea Broadcasting Act.

Government policies and regulations relating to the above as well as other regulations involving the Korean telecommunications and IP broadcasting industries (including as a result of the implementation of free trade agreements between Korea and other countries, including the United States and the European Union) may change, 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 Korea Fair Trade Commission. The Korea Fair Trade Commission initially designated us as a large business group under the Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act on April 1, 2002. Our business relationships and transactions with our subsidiaries, affiliates and other companies within the KT Group are subject to ongoing scrutiny by the Fair Trade Commission as to, among other things, whether such relationships and transactions constitute undue financial support among companies of the same business group. We are also subject to the fair trade regulations limiting cross-guarantee of debt and cross-shareholdings among member companies of the same group. Any future determination by the Korea Fair Trade Commission that we have engaged in transactions that violate the fair trade laws and regulations may result in fines or other punitive measures and may have a material adverse effect on our reputation and our business.

Concerns that radio frequency emissions may be linked to various health concerns could adversely affect our business and we could be subject to litigation relating to these health concerns.

In the past, allegations that serious health risks may result from the use of wireless telecommunications devices or other transmission equipment have adversely affected share prices of some wireless telecommunications companies in the United States. In May 2011, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (“IARC”) announced that it has classified radiofrequency electromagnetic fields associated with wireless phone use as possibly carcinogenic to humans, based on an increased risk for glioma, a malignant type of brain cancer. The IARC is part of the World Health Organization that conducts research on the causes of human cancer and the mechanisms of carcinogenesis, and aims to develop scientific strategies for cancer control. We cannot assure you that such health concerns will not adversely affect our business. Several class action and personal injury lawsuits have been filed in the United States against several wireless phone manufacturers and carriers, asserting product liability, breach of warranty and other claims relating to radio transmissions to and from wireless phones. Certain of these lawsuits have been dismissed. We could be subject to liability or incur significant costs defending lawsuits brought by our subscribers or other parties who claim to have been harmed by or as a result of our services. In addition, the actual or perceived risk of wireless telecommunications devices could have an adverse effect on us by reducing our number of subscribers or our usage per subscriber.

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

 

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amount of Won required by us to make interest and principal payments on our foreign-currency-denominated debt, the costs of telecommunications 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)7,248 billion total principal amount of long-term debt (excluding current portion) outstanding as of December 31, 2010, (Won)2,188 billion was denominated in foreign currencies with an average weighted interest rate of 4.70%. The interest rates of such long-term debt denominated in foreign currencies ranged from 0.77% (for US$100 million notes with a floating interest rate of three month London Interbank Offered Rate plus 0.47%) to 16.50% (for Uzbekistani Som 2,259,000 (approximately US$1.4 million) fixed rate notes issued by East Telecom, our subsidiary located in Uzbekistan). See “Item 3. Key Information—Item 3.A. Select Financial Data—Exchange Rate Information”, “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources” and “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk—Interest Rate Risk.”

Fluctuations in the exchange rate between the Won and the Dollar will also affect the Dollar equivalent of the Won price of the shares of our common stock on the KRX KOSPI Market and, as a result, will likely affect the market price of the ADSs. These fluctuations will also affect the Dollar conversion by the depositary for the ADRs of cash dividends, if any, paid in Won on shares of common stock represented by the ADSs.

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.

Substantially all of our operations, customers and assets are located in Korea. Accordingly, the performance and successful fulfillment of our operational strategies are necessarily dependent on the overall Korean economy and the resulting impact on the demand for telecommunications services. The economic indicators in Korea in recent years have shown mixed signs of growth and uncertainty, and future growth of the economy is subject to many factors beyond our control.

The Korean economy is closely tied to, and is affected by developments in, the global economy. Recent difficulties affecting the U.S. and global financial sectors, adverse conditions and volatility in the worldwide credit and financial markets, fluctuations in oil and commodity prices and the general weakness of the U.S. and global economy have increased the uncertainty of global economic prospects in general and have adversely affected, and may continue to adversely affect, the Korean economy. Due to recent liquidity and credit concerns and volatility in the global financial markets, the value of the Won relative to the Dollar has also fluctuated significantly in recent years. Furthermore, as a result of adverse global and Korean economic conditions, there has been continuing volatility in the stock prices of Korean companies. While the rate of deterioration of the global economy slowed in the second half of 2009, with some signs of stabilization and improvement in 2010, the overall prospects for the Korean and global economy in 2011 and beyond remain uncertain. Any future deterioration of the Korean or global economy could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

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

 

   

difficulties in the housing and financial sectors in the United States and elsewhere and increased sovereign default risks in select countries and the resulting adverse effects on the global financial markets;

 

   

declines in consumer confidence and a slowdown in consumer spending;

 

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adverse changes or volatility in foreign currency reserve levels, commodity prices, exchange rates (including fluctuation of the Dollar or Japanese Yen exchange rates or revaluation of the Chinese renminbi), interest rates, inflation rates or stock markets;

 

   

continuing adverse conditions 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;

 

   

increasing delinquencies and credit defaults by retail and small- and medium-sized enterprise borrowers;

 

   

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 the manufacturing base from Korea to China);

 

   

the economic impact of any pending or future free trade agreements;

 

   

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 fiscal stimulus measures, unemployment compensation and other economic and social programs that, together, would lead to an increased government budget deficit;

 

   

financial problems or lack of progress in the restructuring of 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 at certain Korean conglomerates;

 

   

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

 

   

the occurrence of severe health epidemics in Korea 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 or political or social tensions involving oil producing countries in the Middle East and North Africa and any material disruption in the supply of oil or increase in the price of oil;

 

   

the occurrence of severe earthquakes, tsunamis and other natural disasters in Korea and other parts of the world, particularly in trading partners (such as the March 2011 earthquake in Japan, which also resulted in the release of radioactive materials from a nuclear plant that had been damaged by the earthquake); and

 

   

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

 

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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 weapons and long-range missile programs and increased uncertainty regarding North Korea’s actions and possible responses from the international community. 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 May 2009, North Korea announced that it had successfully conducted a second nuclear test and test-fired three short-range surface-to-air missiles. In response, the United Nations Security Council unanimously passed a resolution in June 2009 that condemned North Korea for the nuclear test and decided to expand and tighten sanctions against North Korea. In March 2010, a Korean warship was destroyed by an underwater explosion, killing many of the crewmen on board. The government formally accused North Korea of causing the sinking in May 2010, and North Korea has denied responsibility for the sinking and has threatened retaliation for any attempt to punish it for the act. On November 23, 2010, North Korean forces fired more than one hundred artillery shells targeting Yeonpyeong Island located near the maritime border between Korea and North Korea on the west coast of the Korean peninsula, killing two Korean soldiers and two civilians as well as causing substantial property damage. Korea responded by firing approximately 80 artillery shells and putting the military on its highest alert level. The Government condemned North Korea for the act and vowed stern retaliation should there be further provocation.

In addition, there recently has been increased uncertainty with respect to the future of North Korea’s political leadership and concern regarding its implications for political stability in the region. On September 28, 2010, Kim Jong-il, the North Korean ruler who reportedly suffered a stroke in August 2008, named Kim Jong-un, his third son who is reported to be in his twenties, as the vice chairperson of the Central Military Commission and the general of the North Korean army. Although Kim Jong-il has designated his son to be his successor, the implementation of the succession plan remains uncertain. North Korea’s economy also faces severe challenges. In November 2009, the North Korean government redenominated its currency at a ratio of 100 to 1 as part of a currency reform undertaken in an attempt to control inflation and reduce income gaps. Such developments may further aggravate social and political tensions within North Korea.

Reunification of the two Koreas could occur in the future. Reunification may entail a significant economic commitment by Korea. In President Lee Myung Bak’s national address on August 15, 2010, he suggested the possible adoption of a reunification tax in order to prepare for long-term economic burden associated with reunification. Such discussions on reunification are very preliminary, and it has not been decided whether or when such tax would be implemented. If a reunification tax is implemented, it may lead to a decrease in domestic consumption, which in turn may have a material adverse effect on the Korean economy. In addition, there can be no assurance that the level of tension on the Korean peninsula will not escalate in the future. Any further increase in tension, which may occur, for example, if North Korea experiences a leadership crisis, high-level contacts between Korea and North Korea break down or military hostilities occur, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

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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 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 to 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 Korea Communications Commission 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 Korea Communications Commission 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.”

 

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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.

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.

Korean GAAP differs in significant respects from accounting standards applicable in certain other countries, including U.S. GAAP and the International Financial Reporting Standards.

Our financial statements included in this annual report are prepared in accordance with Korean GAAP and reconciled to U.S. GAAP. Korean GAAP differs in significant respects from accounting standards applicable in certain other countries, including U.S. GAAP. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—U.S. GAAP Reconciliation” and “—Recent Accounting Pronouncements in U.S. GAAP” and Note 38 to Consolidated Financial Statements.

In March 2007, the Financial Services Commission and the Korea Accounting Institute announced a road map for the adoption of the Korean equivalent of International Financial Reporting Standards (“Korean IFRS”), pursuant to which all listed companies in Korea, including us, will be required to prepare their annual financial statements beginning in 2011 that differ in certain respects from International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) applied in other countries.

In preparation of such adoption, we began preparing our internal financial statements under both Korean GAAP and Korean IFRS starting in January 2010. Beginning in 2011, we have discontinued reporting under Korean GAAP with reconciliation to U.S. GAAP and instead have commenced reporting under Korean IFRS and we also plan to release annual financial statements prepared pursuant to IFRS as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, or IASB. Although our accounting department is currently analyzing the effects of adopting IFRS on our annual financial statements, it is not possible to estimate with any degree of certainty the exact impact on our annual financial statements from such adoption because the IFRS accounting policies to be adopted by us for such financial statements have not been finalized. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the adoption of IFRS will not adversely affect our reporting results of operations or financial condition.

 

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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 exercised substantial 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 shareholders began electing our directors, who used to be appointed by the Government under the Korea Telecom Act.

Prior to 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, and 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 awarded licenses to several service providers to promote competition in other telecommunications business areas such as mobile telephone services and data network services. On June 1, 2009, KTF merged into KT Corporation, with KT Corporation surviving the merger, with the objective of maximizing management efficiencies of our fixed-line and mobile telecommunications operations as well as more effectively responding to the convergence trends in the telecommunications industry. See “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Competition.”

 

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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.

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:

 

   

mobile telecommunications services;

 

   

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

 

   

broadband Internet access service and other Internet-related services, including IP-TV services; and

 

   

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

Leveraging on our dominant position in the fixed-line telephone services market and our established customer base in Korea, we have successfully pursued new growth opportunities during the past decade and obtained strong market positions in each of our principal lines of business. In particular:

 

   

in the mobile services market in Korea, we achieved a market share of 31.6% with approximately 16.0 million subscribers as of December 31, 2010;

 

   

in the fixed-line telephone services market in Korea, we continue to be the dominant provider with approximately 25.5 million installed lines, of which 16.6 million lines were in service as of December 31, 2010. As of such date, our market share of the local market was 86.3% and our market share of the domestic long-distance market was 82.2%;

 

   

we are Korea’s largest broadband Internet access provider with 7.4 million subscribers as of December 31, 2010, representing a market share of 43.1%; and

 

   

we are also the leading provider of data communication services in Korea.

For the year ended December 31, 2010, under Korean GAAP, our operating revenues were (Won)21,331 billion, our net income was (Won)1,193 billion and our basic net income per share was (Won)4,803. As of December 31, 2010, our total shareholders’ equity was (Won)11,496 billion.

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. In order to enhance the management efficiencies of our mobile and fixed-line telecommunications operations as well as more effectively respond to the convergence trends in the telecommunications industry, KTF merged into KT Corporation on June 1, 2009, with

 

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KT Corporation surviving the merger. We also restructured our organization into three sub-groups, the Home Customer Group, the Personal Customer Group and the Enterprise Customer Group, so that we may more effectively address differing needs of our customer segments. Consistent with our strategic objectives, we aim to pursue growth through the following four core areas:

 

   

Home Customer Group. We aim to offer a one-stop-shop that satisfies various information technology and telecommunications needs of a household. In 2010, we launched a new brand “olleh” to promote our bundled products, which include broadband Internet access service, IP-TV service, Internet phone service and fixed-line telephone service. We aim to differentiate ourselves from our competitors by providing broadband Internet access service using high-speed fiber-to-the-home (or FTTH) connection and offering Internet phone service with value-added features such as video communication, short message service and phone banking. We also began offering real-time broadcasting service on our IP-TV service starting in November 2008.

 

   

Personal Customer Group. Our Personal Customer Group focuses on expanding our wireless data communication business to meet the rising demand for broadband Internet access using advanced wireless data communications devices such as smart phones. We are working closely with handset manufacturers to expand our offerings of smart phones and handsets designed to promote convergence of fixed-line and mobile telecommunications services, as well as promote development of various applications for such devices. In line with this strategy, we began offering Apple’s iPhone for the first time in Korea on November 28, 2009 and have expanded our offerings of smart phones from other mobile handset manufacturers. We believe that our WiBro network, which enables two-way wireless broadband Internet access to portable computers, mobile phones and other portable devices, as well as our extensive wireless LAN networks installed nationwide, enable our subscribers to maximize effective usage of their smart phones. We plan to take advantage of our industry-leading network infrastructure to attract more customers as this market further develops. In addition, we aim to further enhance our position in the mobile telecommunications market by leveraging on our strong brand, nationwide marketing network, competitive data usage rates, call centers dedicated to smart phone users, creative marketing strategies that address our potential customers’ needs and ability to bundle various mobile and fixed-line services. We also plan to further expand our contents and applications for smart phone users and mobile data users by cooperating with application developers in Korea and abroad, in order to further solidify our position as a leader in the convergence market.

 

   

Enterprise Customer Group. We aim to provide our corporate customers, small- and medium-sized enterprises and government agencies with one-stop solution services including designing data communications and information technology infrastructure to overseeing their day-to-day operations with the objective of achieving operational efficiencies and cost savings. We provide solutions specifically tailored for individual clients, as well as Internet-based computing services, whereby shared resources, software and information are delivered from our data centers and servers. For example, we designed an urban transit infrastructure maintenance system for the Seoul Metropolitan Rapid Transit Corporation, in which workers are able to utilize their smart phones to report back their maintenance results to the headquarters remotely from the maintenance site. Leveraging our extensive customer base, we plan to further expand the range of innovative solutions for our enterprise customers.

 

   

Convergence. We believe that convergence of fixed-line and mobile communications technologies provides a competitive advantage to us because we have the technological

 

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know-how and experience to design and construct a unified delivery platform for a new generation of value-added services. We plan to make such platform more readily available to others so that they may create additional contents and convenience solutions such as electronic commerce and digital transaction applications that can be utilized anywhere using various media and communications devices.

The Telecommunications Industry in Korea

The Korean telecommunications industry is one of the most developed in Asia. According to the Korea Communications Commission, the number of mobile subscribers in Korea was 50.8 million and the number of broadband Internet access subscribers in Korea was 17.2 million as of December 31, 2010. As of December 31, 2010, the mobile penetration rate, which is calculated by dividing the number of mobile subscribers (including multiple counting of those who subscribe to more than one mobile service) by the population of Korea, was 103.9%, and the broadband Internet penetration rate, which is calculated by dividing the number of broadband Internet access service subscribers (including multiple counting of those who subscribe to more than one broadband Internet access service) by the number of households in Korea, was 100.4%.

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 Telecom 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. KTF was awarded a license alongside LG U+ and Hansol M.com, and 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. On June 1, 2009, KTF merged into KT Corporation, with KT Corporation surviving the merger. KT Corporation, SK Telecom and LG U+ have invested in networks compatible with Evolution-Data Optimized (or EV-DO) handsets that allow subscribers to enjoy 2.5 generation high speed wireless data services. KT Corporation and SK Telecom also offer third-generation, high-capacity HSDPA-based IMT-2000 wireless Internet and video multimedia communications services that use significantly greater bandwidth capacity.

The table below gives the subscription and penetration information of the mobile telecommunications industry for the periods indicated:

 

     As of December 31,  
     2006     2007     2008     2009     2010  

Total Korean Population (1)

     48,378        48,457        48,607        48,747        48,875   

Mobile Subscribers (2)

     40,197        43,498        45,607        47,944        50,767   

Mobile Subscriber Growth Rate

     4.8     8.2     4.9     5.1     5.9

Mobile Penetration (3)

     83.1     89.8     93.8     98.4     103.9

 

 

(1) In thousands, based on population trend estimates by the National Statistical Office of Korea.

 

(2) In thousands, based on information announced by the Korea Communications Commission.

 

(3) Penetration is determined by dividing mobile subscribers by total Korean population.

 

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Broadband Internet Access Market

With the advancement of broadband technology, the Korean broadband Internet access market has experienced significant growth. The principal technologies used in providing high speed Internet access services are xDSL, HFC and fiber optic LAN. 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. Fiber optic LAN is a technology that combines fiber optic cables and Unshielded Twisted Pair (or UTP) cables. Fiber optic cables are connected to residential and commercial buildings with UTP cable-based LAN capabilities. While xDSL and HFC are more widely used technologies because of their relative reliability, ease of provisioning and cost effectiveness, fiber optic LAN usage in Korea has been steadily increasing in recent years.

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 2002. Some of the service providers have upgraded their broadband network to provide fiber optic LAN-based service to their subscribers, which further enhances data transmission speed up to 100 Mbps as well as improves connection quality, and enables such service providers to offer video-on-demand services with real-time high definition broadcasting.

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 speeds of up to 155 Mbps, which is designed to integrate fixed-line and wireless services by offering high speed wireless Internet access to laptops, PDAs and smart phones 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 3 Mbps.

Our Services

Mobile Service

We provide mobile services based on CDMA technology and W-CDMA technology. Prior to the merger of KTF into KT Corporation, we provided such services through KTF, which was formerly a consolidated subsidiary. On June 1, 2009, KTF merged into KT Corporation, with KT Corporation surviving the merger, with the objective of maximizing management efficiencies of our fixed-line and mobile telecommunications operations as well as more effectively responding to the convergence trends in the telecommunications industry. KTF obtained one of the three licenses to provide nationwide PCS service in June 1996 and began offering PCS service in October 1997. PCS service is a digital wireless telephone and data transmission system based on CDMA wireless network standards that uses portable handsets with long battery life to communicate via low-power antennae. KTF also began offering HSDPA-based IMT-2000 services, which are third-generation, high-capacity wireless Internet and video multimedia communications services based on W-CDMA wireless network standards that allow an operator to provide to its subscribers significantly more bandwidth capacity.

We have been providing our 2G PCS services based on CDMA wireless network standards through our 40 MHz bandwidth in the 1.8 GHz spectrum, which allocation is scheduled to terminate at the end of June 2011. As part of our decision to apply for reallocation, we have applied to the Korea

 

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Communications Commission to terminate our existing 2G PCS services, which we expect to be able to terminate in the second half of 2011. Accordingly, our existing 2G PCS subscribers must either convert to our W-CDMA services or switch to other telecommunications companies. As of December 31, 2010, there were 1,393 thousand subscribers of our 2G PCS services. We are offering benefits such as substantial discounts on W-CDMA-compatible handsets and monthly subscription fees to encourage our existing subscribers to switch to our W-CDMA services.

Revenues related to mobile service accounted for 33.2% of our operating revenues in 2010. In addition, our goods sold, which are primarily from mobile handset sales, accounted for 20.6% of our operating revenues in 2010. The following table shows selected information concerning the usage of our network during the periods indicated and the number of our subscribers as of the end of such periods:

 

     As of or for the Year Ended December 31,  
         2008              2009              2010      

Outgoing Minutes (in millions) (1)

     28,960         30,714         34,570   

Average Monthly Outgoing Minutes per Subscriber (1) (2)

     168         173         184   

Average Monthly Revenue per Subscriber (1) (3)

   (Won) 39,487       (Won) 36,241       (Won) 36,801   

Number of Subscribers (in thousands)

     14,365         15,016         16,041   

 

 

(1) Prior to the merger of KTF into KT Corporation on June 1, 2009, we maintained an air-time reselling arrangement with KTF where we billed directly to our resale subscribers for their usage of KTF’s mobile networks and collected all fees and charges relating to such usage. Such amounts related to resale subscribers are not included in our calculation of outgoing minutes and average monthly outgoing minutes and revenue per subscriber in 2008. In 2009 and 2010, we have included such amounts related to resale subscribers in these calculations.

 

(2) 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.

 

(3) The average monthly revenue per subscriber is computed by dividing initial activation fees, total monthly 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.

We compete with SK Telecom, a mobile service provider that has a longer operating history than us, and LG U+ that began its service at around the same time as KTF. As of December 31, 2010, we had approximately 16.0 million subscribers, which was second largest among the three mobile service providers. As of December 31, 2010, we had a market share of 31.6% of the mobile service market.

We market our mobile services primarily through independent exclusive dealers located throughout Korea. As of December 31, 2010, there were approximately 2,200 shops managed by our independent exclusive dealers. In addition to assisting new subscribers to activate mobile service and purchase handsets, authorized dealers are connected to our database and are able to assist customers with account information. Although most of these dealers sell exclusively our products and services, 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 fee, usage charges and length of subscription. The handsets sold by us to the dealers cannot be returned to us 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.

In response to the diversification of our customers’ demands and their increasing sophistication, we have also selectively engaged in opportunities to expand our internal sales channels in recent years. In 2007, we established a wholly-owned subsidiary, KT M&S Co., Ltd., that operates

 

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approximately 140 customer plazas that engage in mobile service sales activities as well as provide a one-stop shop for a wide range of other services and products that we offer. We also operate a website to promote and advertise our products and services to the general public and in particular to younger customers who are more familiar with the Internet.

We conduct the screening process for new subscribers with great caution. A potential subscriber must meet all minimum credit criteria before receiving mobile 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 mobile service by using a pre-paid card.

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, international long-distance services and land-to-mobile interconnection services. These fixed-line telephone services accounted for 20.1% of our operating revenues in 2010. 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,  
     2006      2007      2008      2009      2010  

Total Korean population (thousands) (1)

     48,378         48,457         48,607         48,747         48,875   

Lines installed (thousands) (2)

     26,838         26,671         26,008         25,907         25,524   

Lines in service (thousands) (2)

     20,331         19,980         18,883         17,069         16,620   

Lines in service per 100 inhabitants (3)

     42.0         41.2         38.8         35.0         34.0   

Fiber optic cable (kilometers)

     212,715         267,421         312,232         405,528         448,328   

Number of public telephones installed (thousands)

     218         185         161         144         123   

Domestic long-distance call minutes (millions) (4) (5)

     14,769         13,375         11,591         9,526         7,318   

Local call pulses (millions) (4)

     16,182         14,676         12,449         8,406         7,973   

 

 

(1) Based on population trend estimates by the National Statistical Office of Korea.

 

(2) Including lines used for public telephones but excluding lines dedicated to centralized extension system services for corporate subscribers.

 

(3) Determined based on lines in service and total Korean population.

 

(4) Excluding calls placed from public telephones.

 

(5) Estimated by KT Corporation.

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.

 

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The following table shows the number of minutes of international long-distance calls recorded by us and specific service providers utilizing our international long-distance network in each specified category for each year in the five-year period ended December 31, 2010:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2006      2007      2008      2009      2010  
     (In millions of billed minutes)  

Incoming international long-distance calls

     519.4         627.4         603.7         442.2         523.5   

Outgoing international long-distance calls

     400.9         431.4         398.1         325.9         325.1   
                                            

Total

     920.3         1,058.8         1,001.8         768.1         848.7   
                                            

China (18.5%), United States (17.0%) and Japan (16.8%) accounted for the greatest percentage of our international long-distance call traffic measured in minutes in 2010. In recent years, 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.

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 SK Broadband and LG U+ (offering local, domestic long-distance and international long-distance services), Onse and SK Telink (offering international and domestic long-distance services), and SK Telecom and LG U+ (transmitting calls to and from their mobile 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 4.5% of our operating revenues in 2010. 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 phone services. The volume of calls made through Internet phone services has significantly increased since Internet phone service was first introduced in Korea in 1998. We provide Internet phone services that enable VoIP phone devices with broadband connection to make domestic and international calls. In order to differentiate our Internet phone services from our competitors’ services, we provide value-added services such as video communication, short message service, phone banking and a variety of traffic and local news information. As of December 31, 2010, we had approximately 2.7 million subscribers.

Internet Services

Broadband Internet Access Service. Leveraging on our nationwide network of 448,328 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 9.1% of our operating revenues in 2010. Our principal Internet access services include:

 

   

ADSL, VDSL, Ethernet and FTTH services under the “olleh Internet” brand name;

 

   

wireless LAN service under the “ollehWiFi” brand name, which is designed to integrate fixed-line and wireless services by offering high speed wireless Internet access to laptops, PDAs and smart phones in hot-spot zones and olleh Internet service in fixed-line environments. OllehWiFi enables subscribers to access the Internet at up to 155 Mbps. We sponsored approximately 42,000 hot-spot zones nationwide for wireless connection as of December 31, 2010; and

 

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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 3 Mbps per user.

We had 7.4 million fixed-line olleh Internet subscribers and approximately 266 thousand ollehWiFi service subscribers as of December 31, 2010. We commercially launched our WiBro service in June 2006, and we had approximately 377 thousand subscribers as of December 31, 2010. We also bundle our WiBro service with olleh Internet and ollehWiFi services at a discount in order to attract additional subscribers.

Our olleh Internet service utilizes ADSL technology, which is a technology that converts existing copper twisted-pair telephone lines into access paths for multimedia and high-speed data communications. 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. 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 enables us to deliver enhanced products and services that require high bandwidth, such as IP-TV 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 olleh Internet 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.

Other Internet-related Services. Our other Internet-related services focus primarily on providing infrastructure and solutions for business enterprises, as well as IP-TV and network portal services. Our other Internet-related services accounted for 2.9% of our operating revenues in 2010.

We operate seven Internet data centers located throughout Korea and provide a wide range of 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 wide-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

 

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customers’ Internet 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.

We also offer high definition video-on-demand and real-time broadcasting IP-TV services under the brand name “olleh TV.” Our IP-TV service offers 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 catalog of digital media contents and view selected media streams on their television. A set-top box provides two-way communications on an IP network and decodes video streaming data. We expanded our IP-TV service to include real-time broadcasting on November 17, 2008. We had 2.4 million olleh TV subscribers as of March 31, 2011.

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, 2008, 2009 and 2010, we leased 374,570 lines, 366,191 lines and 303,009 lines to domestic and international businesses. The data communication service accounted for 6.1% of our operating revenues in 2010.

We provide dedicated and secure broadband Internet connection service to institutional customers under the “Kornet” brand name. We provide high-speed connection up to 4.2 Tbps, 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 currently operate three satellites, Koreasat 3, Koreasat 5 and Koreasat 6. We launched Koreasat 3 in September 1999. The design life of Koreasat 3 is twelve years, and it will be used to back up the broadcasting services of Koreasat 6 until the end of its fuel life.

We launched Koreasat 5 in August 2006, which replaced Koreasat 2. Koreasat 5, a combined civil and governmental communications satellite, is the first Korean satellite to provide commercial satellite services to neighboring countries, and the service coverage area includes Korea, Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, the eastern part of China and the far-eastern part of Russia. The design life of Koreasat 5 is fifteen years.

We launched Koreasat 6 (also known as olleh 1) in December 2010 to replace Koreasat 3. The design life of Koreasat 6 is fifteen years. Koreasat 6 began its commercial operation in February 2011 and carries transponders that are used for direct-to-home satellite broadcasting, video distributions and data communications services. Most of the direct-to-home satellite broadcasting transponders are utilized by KT Skylife Co. We also lease satellite capacity from other satellite operators to offer commercial satellite services to both domestic and international customers.

 

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Miscellaneous Services

We also engage in various business activities that extend beyond telephone services and data communications services, including information technology and network services, real estate development and car rental business. Our miscellaneous services accounted for 8.0% of our operating revenues for 2010.

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 the individual needs of our customers in the public and private sectors.

We own land and real estate in various locations nationwide. Technological developments have enhanced the coverage area of individual telecommunications facilities, which enable us to better utilize our existing land and other real estate holdings. In recent years, we have engaged in the planning and development of commercial and office buildings and condominiums on our unused sites, as well as in the leasing of buildings we own. We established KT Estate Inc. in August 2010 to oversee the planning, development and operation of our real estate assets.

We also operate KT Rental, a subsidiary that provides rental cars and equipment. In March 2010, MBK Partners, a private equity firm, and we jointly acquired Kumho Rent-A-Car Co., Ltd. from Korea Express Inc. for (Won)245 billion, with each taking a 50% stake. Kumho Rent-A-Car was subsequently merged with the car rental business unit of KT Rental on June 1, 2010. KT Rental operated approximately 58,800 vehicles as of December 31, 2010 and has a market share of 22.8% of the domestic car rental market in 2010.

Revenues and Rates

The table below shows the percentage of our revenues derived from each category of services for each of the years from 2008 through 2010:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
         2008             2009             2010      

Mobile services

     32.8     33.8     33.2

Fixed-line telephone services:

      

Local service

     14.1        13.6        12.0   

Non-refundable service initiation fees

     0.1        0.1        0.1   

Domestic long-distance service

     3.0        2.4        1.8   

International long-distance service

     2.3        2.0        1.7   

Land-to-mobile interconnection

     7.1        5.8        4.5   
                        

Sub-total

     26.6        23.9        20.1   
                        

Internet services:

      

Broadband Internet access service

     10.4        9.9        9.1   

Other Internet-related services (1)

     2.2        2.6        2.9   
                        

Sub-total

     12.6        12.5        12.0   
                        

Goods sold (2)

     15.7        17.3        20.6   

Data communications service (3)

     6.8        6.7        6.1   

Miscellaneous services (4)

     5.5        5.8        8.0   
                        

Operating revenues

     100.0     100.0     100.0
                        

 

 

(1) Includes revenues from services provided by our Internet data centers, Bizmeka and olleh TV.

 

(2) Includes mobile handset sales.

 

(3) Includes revenues from Kornet Internet connection service and satellite services.

 

(4) Includes revenues from information technology and network services, real estate development and car rental business.

 

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Mobile Services

We derive revenues from mobile services principally from:

 

   

initial subscription fees;

 

   

monthly fees;

 

   

usage charges for outgoing calls;

 

   

usage charges for wireless data transmission;

 

   

contents download fees; and

 

   

value-added monthly service fees.

We offer various rate plans, including those that offer a specified number of free airtime minutes per month in return for a higher monthly fee and those that are geared toward business customers. In September 2009, we reduced our initial subscription fee for new subscribers by 20% from (Won)30,000 to (Won)24,000. For our HSDPA-based service, we also charge monthly fees, voice calling usage charges and video calling usage charges. Under our standard rate plan for HSDPA-based service, we charge a monthly fee of (Won)12,000, voice calling usage charges of (Won)1.8 per second and video calling usage charges of (Won)3 per second. The following table summarizes charges for our representative HSDPA-based service plans:

 

     Free Voice Call
Airtime Minutes
    Free Video Call
Airtime Minutes
     Monthly Fee  

Standard Plan

     0        0       (Won) 12,000   

SHOW KING Sponsor Gold—Free 150 (1)

     150        15         28,500   

SHOW KING Sponsor Gold—Free 250 (1)

     250        0         35,000   

SHOW KING Sponsor Gold—Complete Freedom 150 (1) (2)

     150        15         37,000   

SHOW KING Sponsor Gold—Free 350 (1)

     350        0         45,000   

SHOW KING Sponsor Gold—Free 450 (1)

     450        0         55,000   

SHOW KING Sponsor Gold—Free 650 (1)

     650        0         67,000   

SHOW KING Sponsor Gold—Free 850 (1)

     850        0         75,000   

SHOW KING Sponsor Gold—Free 2000 (1)

     2,000  (3)      0         97,000   

 

 

(1) Requires mandatory subscription period of 24 months.

 

(2) Includes free unlimited data usage service.

 

(3) Unlimited voice call airtime minutes for calls made to our subscribers.

A subscriber may also subscribe to an individually designed calling rate plan by mixing free voice calling airtime minutes and free text messages at a set monthly fee.

For our PCS service, we charge monthly fees and usage charges. Under our standard rate plan for PCS service, we charge a monthly fee of (Won)12,500 and usage charges of (Won)1.8 per second, and the subscriber is provided with five free minutes. The following table summarizes charges for our representative PCS service plans:

 

     Free Airtime
Minutes
     Free Text
Messages
     Monthly Fee  

Standard

     5         0       (Won) 12,500   

New Double Designated Numbers (1)

     0         50         15,500   

Roll Over (Free 200 Minutes) (2)

     200         0         31,500   

Roll Over (Free 550 Minutes) (2)

     550         0         61,000   

Roll Over (Free 800 Minutes) (2)

     800         0         71,000   

 

 

(1) Discounts of 40% when a subscriber makes calls to up to six pre-designated numbers.

 

(2) Unused free airtime may be transferred to the following month.

 

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We also provide plans specially designed for elderly and pre-teen subscribers as well as special discounts to our subscribers with physical disabilities.

In September 2009, we also introduced new rate plans specifically for smart phone users. The following table summarizes charges for our representative smart phone service plans:

 

     Free Airtime
Minutes
     Free Data
Transmission (1)
     Monthly Fee  

SHOW Smart Sponsor Free 150 (2)

     150         0 megabytes       (Won) 28,500   

SHOW Smart Sponsor Free 250 (2)

     250         0         35,000   

SHOW Smart Sponsor Free 350 (2)

     350         0         45,000   

SHOW Smart Sponsor Free 450 (2)

     450         0         55,000   

SHOW Smart Sponsor Free 650 (2)

     650         0         67,000   

SHOW Smart Sponsor Free 850 (2)

     850         0         75,000   

SHOW KING Sponsor i—Slim (3)

     150         100         35,000   

SHOW KING Sponsor i—Lite (3)

     200         500         45,000   

SHOW KING Sponsor i—Talk (3)

     250         100         45,000   

SHOW KING Sponsor i—Value (3)

     300         Unlimited         55,000   

SHOW KING Sponsor i—Medium (3)

     400         Unlimited         65,000   

SHOW KING Sponsor i—Special (3)

     600         Unlimited         79,000   

SHOW KING Sponsor i—Premium (3)

     800         Unlimited         95,000   

 

 

(1) We do not charge for any data transmission in wireless LAN zones. We charge W0.025 per 0.5 kilobyte for any additional data transmission exceeding the free monthly quota.

 

(2) Available only to smart phone users who do not use Apple iPhones. We provide discounts of up to 36.7% for mandatory subscription periods ranging from one to three years.

 

(3) We provide discounts of up to 38.2% for mandatory subscription periods ranging from one to three years.

We have entered into arrangements with various partners including a leading discount store, a leading online shopping mall, a cosmetics company, oil refinery companies, an operator of cinema complexes, a leading motor company and Korea Railroad Corporation, and we offer subscribers of our mobile service monthly discount coupons, membership points or movie tickets from such partners as promotional gifts.

In December 2010, we also introduced data-only plans targeting tablet PC users, smart-phone users and other special phone users, offering subscription plans for data transmission amounts ranging from 100MB to 4GB at monthly fees ranging from (Won)5,000 to (Won)35,000.

Fixed-line 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 Korea Communications Commission after consultation with the Ministry of Strategy and Finance. 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:

 

     Dec 1, 1996      Sept 1, 1997      April 15, 2001      May 1, 2002  

Local Usage Charges (per pulse) (1)

           

Regular service

   (Won) 41.6       (Won) 45       (Won) 39       (Won) 39   

Public telephone

     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.

We also charge a monthly basic charge ranging from (Won)3,000 to (Won)5,200, depending on location, and a non-refundable service initiation fee of (Won)60,000 to new subscribers. The non-refundable service initiation fee is waived for the new subscribers who subscribe to our local service through our online application process. Until April 2001, we charged refundable service initiation deposits, which were refunded upon termination of service. As of December 31, 2010, we had (Won)616 billion of refundable service initiation deposits outstanding and 2,738 thousand subscribers who are enrolled under the mandatory deposit plan and are eligible to switch to the no deposit plan and receive their service initiation deposit back (less the non-refundable service initial fees).

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. We are able to set our own rates for domestic long-distance service without approval from the Korea Communications Commission.

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)  
     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) 41.6       (Won) 45       (Won) 45       (Won) 39       (Won) 39   

Up to 100 km

     182         172         192         192         261   

100 km or longer

     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. every day.

 

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In recent years, we have begun to offer optional flat rate plans, discount plans and bundled product plans in order to mitigate the impact from lower usage of local and domestic long-distance calls and stabilize our revenues from fixed-line telephone services. For a discussion of our bundled products, see “—Bundled Products.” Some of our flat rate and discount plans that we currently offer include the following:

 

   

starting in June 2008, a subscriber who elects to pay a monthly flat rate of (Won)12,500 is able to make free local and domestic long-distance calls after 9 p.m. on weekdays or at any time on weekends. Each month, the subscriber also receives a free movie ticket and free 60 minutes of land-to-mobile calls. The subscriber is also eligible to receive a discount of up to 20%, subject to the length of the mandatory subscription period;

 

   

starting in October 2009, a subscriber who elects to subscribe to our fixed-line phone service for a three year mandatory subscription period is able to make local and domestic long-distance calls at a flat rate of (Won)39 per three minutes; and

 

   

starting in October 2009, a subscriber who elects to subscribe to our broadband Internet access service or HSDPA-based mobile service for a three year mandatory subscription period is able to make local, domestic long-distance and land-to-mobile calls of up to (Won)150,000 with a flat rate payment of (Won)50,000 or such calls up to (Won)50,000 with a flat rate payment of (Won)10,000. Standard rates apply to calls that exceed the capped amounts.

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. We are able to set our own rates for international long-distance service without approval from the Korea Communications Commission.

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 Korea Communications Commission 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 financial statements, we make settlements with most carriers quarterly on a net basis.

 

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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 Korea Communications Commission periodically issues orders setting the interconnection charge calculation method applicable to interconnections with mobile service providers. The Korea Communications Commission 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 mobile operators for landline to mobile calls.

 

     Effective Starting  
     January 1, 2008      January 1, 2009      January 1, 2010  

SK Telecom

   (Won) 33.4       (Won) 32.9       (Won) 31.4   

LG U+

     39.1         38.5         33.6   

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 September 1, 2004  

Weekday

   (Won) 87.0   

Weekend

     82.0   

Evening (1)

     77.2   

 

 

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

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 Korea Communications Commission.

 

     Effective Starting  
     January 1, 2008      January 1, 2009      January 1, 2010  

Local access (1)

   (Won) 18.3       (Won) 18.1       (Won) 17.1   

Single toll access (2)

     19.5         19.3         19.1   

Double toll access (3)

     20.6         20.4         22.5   

 

Source: The Korea Communications Commission.

 

(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.

 

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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 monthly fixed fees to customers of broadband Internet service. In addition, we charge customers a one time installation fee per site of (Won)30,000 and modem rental fee of up to (Won)8,000 on a monthly basis. The rates we charge for broadband Internet access service are subject to approval by the Korea Communications Commission.

The following table summarizes our charges for our representative broadband Internet service plans:

 

     Maximum Speed      Monthly Fee  

olleh Internet Special (1)

     100 Mbps       (Won) 28,800   

olleh Internet Lite (1)

     50                    25,500   

WiBro 1G (2) (6)

     3                    10,000   

WiBro 30G (3) (6)

     3                    19,800   

WiBro 50G (4) (6)

     3                    27,000   

WiBro Unlimited (5) (6)

     3                    40,000   

 

 

(1) We waive the installation fee of (Won)30,000 for mandatory subscription periods of one to four years.

 

(2) We charge 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.

 

(3) We charge a monthly fee of (Won)19,800 for up to 30,000 megabytes of data transmission and (Won)10 per megabyte for any additional data transmission in excess of 30,000 megabytes per month.

 

(4) We charge a monthly fee of (Won)27,000 for up to 50,000 megabytes of data transmission and (Won)10 per megabyte for any additional data transmission in excess of 50,000 megabytes per month.

 

(5) We may limit the service for certain usages, such as CCTV or other large size file transfers, if the monthly data transmission exceeds 100,000 megabytes.

 

(6) Promotional rates available until June 30, 2011.

olleh TV Services. We charge our subscribers an installation fee per site of (Won)24,000, a set-top box rental fee ranging from (Won)2,000 to (Won)7,000 on a monthly basis and a monthly subscription fee. The rates we charge for olleh TV services are subject to approval by the Korea Communications Commission.

The following table summarizes charges for our representative olleh TV service plans:

 

     Real-time
Broadcasting Channels
     Monthly Fee (1)  

olleh TV Video-on-Demand

     0       (Won) 10,000   

olleh TV Choice (2)

     75-77         10,000-16,000   

olleh TV Education (3)

     48         10,000-14,000   

olleh TV Thrift (4)

     99         12,000   

olleh TV Standard (4)

     125         16,000   

olleh TV Deluxe (4)

     130         23,000   

olleh TV SkyLife Economy (5)

     99         20,000   

olleh TV SkyLife Standard (5)

     133         25,000   

olleh TV SkyLife Premium (5)

     171         30,000   

 

 

(1) We provide discounts of 5% to 20% for mandatory subscription periods ranging from one to three years. For olleh TV SkyLife subscribers, we provide discounts of 20% for mandatory subscription period of three years.

 

(2) Assuming selection of one package. Subscribers must choose at least one channel package, each of which charges a monthly fee of (Won)2,000. The packages include entertainment, media, leisure, education and multi-room.

 

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(3) Assuming selection of one package. Subscribers must choose at least one channel package, each of which charges a monthly fee of (Won)2,000. The packages include elementary school, middle/high school and English education.

 

(4) We charge additional monthly fees for value-added services such as short messaging service, video conferencing and high-definition channels from KT Skylife Co., our subsidiary satellite broadcasting operator.

 

(5) For subscription to olleh TV SkyLife service, installation fee is waived for a mandatory subscription period of three years.

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 line ranging from (Won)56,000 to (Won)1,940,000 depending on the capacity of the line.

Bundled Products

We utilize our extensive customer relationships and market knowledge to expand our revenue base by cross-selling our telecommunications products and services. In order to attract additional subscribers to our new services, we bundle our services, such as our broadband Internet access service with WiBro, IP-TV, Internet phone, fixed-line telephone service and mobile services, at a discount.

The following table summarizes our various basic bundled packages that we currently offer. The packages require subscribers to agree to a subscription period of three years.

 

     Monthly Rates    Mobile usage
Charge Discounts
 
     Flat Rate (1)
     Mobile Monthly Fee    Between
Family
Members  (2)
    Calls to
Designated
Numbers (3)
 

Internet / Fixed-Line Phone / Mobile

   (Won) 27,000       Discounts of between
10% to 50%, subject
to the number of
subscribers who
participate (up to 5
mobile numbers)
     50%        20%   

Internet / IP-TV / Mobile (4)

     31,000            50     20

Internet / Fixed-Line Phone / IP-TV / Mobile (4)

     32,000            50%        50%   

 

 

(1) Assuming selection of olleh Internet Lite service. If olleh Internet Special is selected, additional monthly charge of (Won)3,000.

 

(2) Applies to both voice call and video call airtime minutes.

 

(3) Applies to voice call airtime minutes only. Limited to one designated mobile number and one designated fixed-line number.

 

(4) Assuming selection of olleh TV SkyLife Economy Plan. If olleh TV Video-on-Demand is selected, deduction of (Won)2,000 from the monthly flat rate. If olleh TV SkyLife Standard Plan is selected, additional monthly charge of (Won)3,000.

We have also entered into partnerships with a leading online shopping mall, an operator of cinema complexes, a satellite broadcasting service operator, a life insurance company, a car insurance company and a security company, and our subscribers may elect to receive monthly gift certificates, music downloads, online game money, movie tickets or other benefits from such partnership companies with value of up to (Won)50,000 per month in lieu of monthly rate discounts.

We believe that subscribers who sign up for bundled products are less likely to cancel our services than subscribers who subscribe to individual services. Subscription fees paid for our bundled products are allocated to each service in proportion to their fair value and the allocated amount is recognized as revenue according to the revenue recognition policy for each service.

 

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Competition

Competition in the telecommunications sector in Korea is intense. In recent years, business combinations in the telecommunications industry have significantly changed the competitive landscape of the Korean telecommunications industry. In particular, SK Telecom acquired a controlling stake in Hanarotelecom Incorporated in 2008, which was renamed SK Broadband. The acquisition enables SK Telecom to provide fixed-line telecommunications, broadband Internet access and IP-TV services together with its mobile telecommunications services. On January 1, 2010, LG Dacom and LG Powercom merged into LG Telecom Co., Ltd., which subsequently changed its name to LG U+. The merger enables LG U+ provide a similar range of services as SK Telecom and us.

Under the Telecommunications Basic Law and the Telecommunications Business Law, 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 Korea Communications Commission 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 Korea Communications Commission. 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 Korea Communications Commission has also issued guidelines on fair competition of the telecommunications companies. If any telecommunications service provider breaches the guidelines, the Korea Communications Commission may take necessary corrective measures against it after a hearing at which the service provider may defend its action.

Mobile Service. Competition in the mobile telecommunications industry in Korea is intense among SK Telecom, LG U+ and us. Such competition has intensified in recent years due to the implementation of mobile number portability, which enabled 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 who agree to minimum subscription periods.

The following table shows the market share in the mobile telecommunications market as of the dates indicated:

 

     Market Share (%)  
     KT
Corporation
     SK Telecom      LG U+  

December 31, 2008

     31.5         50.5         18.0   

December 31, 2009

     31.3         50.6         18.1   

December 31, 2010

     31.6         50.6         17.8   

 

 

Source: Korea Communications Commission.

 

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We offer various rate plans, including those that offer a specified number of free airtime minutes per month in return for a higher monthly fee and those that are geared toward business customers. Our competitors also offer similar plans at competitive rates.

Local Telephone Service. We compete with SK Broadband and LG U+ in the local telephone service business. SK Broadband began providing local telephone service in 1999, followed by LG U+ in 2004. In addition, the services provided by mobile 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.

The following table shows the market share in the local telephone service market as of the dates indicated:

 

     Market Share (%)  
     KT
Corporation
     SK Broadband      LG U+  

December 31, 2008

     89.8         8.7         1.5   

December 31, 2009

     89.9         8.4         1.7   

December 31, 2010

     86.3         11.7         2.0   

 

 

Source: Korea Communications Commission.

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

Domestic Long-distance Telephone Service. We compete with SK Broadband, LG U+, Onse and SK Telink in the domestic long-distance market. LG U+ began offering domestic long-distance service in 1996, followed by Onse in 1999 and SK Broadband and SK Telink in 2004. The following table shows the market shares in the domestic long-distance market as of the dates indicated:

 

     Market Share (%)  
     KT
Corporation
     SK Broadband      LG U+      Onse      SK Telink  

December 31, 2008

     85.2         3.7         7.8         1.7         1.6   

December 31, 2009

     86.3         6.8         3.4         1.6         1.9   

December 31, 2010

     82.2         11.1         3.1         1.2         2.4   

 

Source: Korea Telecommunications Operators Association.

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 typically charge between 3% to 5% less than us. The following table is a comparison of our standard long-distance usage charges per 10 seconds with the standard rates of our competitors as of December 31, 2010:

 

     KT
Corporation
     SK Broadband      LG U+      Onse      SK Telink  

30 kilometers or longer

   (Won) 14.5       (Won) 13.9       (Won) 14.1       (Won) 13.8       (Won) 13.8   

 

 

Source: Korea Communications Commission.

 

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International Long-Distance Telephone Service. Four companies, SK Broadband, LG U+, Onse and SK Telink, directly compete with us in the international long-distance market. LG U+ began offering international long-distance service in 1991, followed by Onse in 1997 and SK Broadband 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.”

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, 2010:

 

     KT
Corporation
     SK
Broadband
     LG U+      Onse      SK Telink  

United States

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

Japan

     696         672         678         672         384   

China

     990         984         996         984         780   

Australia

     1,086         1,044         1,086         1,044         528   

Great Britain

     1,008         966         996         966         498   

Germany

     948         912         942         912         402   

 

 

Source: KT Corporation.

Broadband Internet Access Service. The Korean broadband Internet access market has experienced significant growth in the past decade. SK Broadband 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 U+. 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.

The following table shows the market share in the broadband Internet access market as of the dates indicated:

 

     Market Share (%)  
     KT
Corporation
     SK
Broadband
     LG U+      Others  

December 31, 2008

     43.4         22.9         14.1         19.6   

December 31, 2009

     42.5         23.5         15.4         18.6   

December 31, 2010

     43.1         23.1         16.1         17.7   

 

 

Source: Korea Communications Commission.

Our competitors generally charge less than us for broadband Internet access service. The following table is a comparison of fees for our olleh Internet Lite service with three year mandatory subscription period with fees of our competitors for comparable services as of December 31, 2010:

 

     KT
Corporation
     SK
Broadband
     LG U+      Cable Providers  (1)  

Monthly subscription fee

   (Won) 25,500       (Won) 25,200       (Won) 25,000       (Won) 20,000   

Monthly modem rental fee

     3,000         3,000         None         1,000   

Additional installation fee upon moving

     10,000         10,000         20,000         20,000   

 

 

Source: KT Corporation.

 

(1) These are typical fees charged by cable providers.

 

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Data Communication Service. We had a monopoly in domestic data communication service until 1994, when LG U+ was authorized to provide the leased-line service. The data communications service market has become more competitive with limited growth during the past decade, and we primarily compete with SK Broadband and LG U+.

Value-Added Service Providers

Value-added service providers may commence operations following filing of a report to the Korea Communications Commission. 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.

Regulation

Under the Telecommunications Basic Law and the Telecommunications Business Law, 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 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 Law, the Korea Communications Commission has comprehensive regulatory authority over the telecommunications industry and all network service providers. The Korea Communications Commission is established under the direct jurisdiction of the President and is comprised of five standing commissioners. Commissioners of the Korea Communications Commission are appointed by the President, and the appointment of the Chairperson must be approved at a confirmation hearing at the National Assembly. The Korea Communications Commission’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 Korea Communications Commission. Our license as a network service provider permits us to engage in a wide range of telecommunications services.

 

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Under the Use and Protection of Credit Information Act, telecommunications service providers are also required to disclose personal credit information of their customers only for the purpose of validating and maintaining telecommunications service agreements. Korean telecommunications service providers may use their customers’ credit information only to the extent allowed by the Use and Protection of Credit Information Act, which has gained greater importance in recent years due to the occurrence of personal information leakage incidents.

The Korea Communications Commission also has the authority to regulate the IP media market, including IP-TV services. We began offering IP-TV services with real-time high definition broadcasting on November 17, 2008. Under the Internet Multimedia Broadcasting Business Act, anyone intending to engage in the IP media broadcasting business must obtain a license from the Korea Communications Commission. The ownership of the shares of an IP media broadcasting company by a newspaper, a news agency or a foreigner is limited, and broadcasting of certain contents must obtain additional approval of the Korea Communications Commission.

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 Korea Communications Commission 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 Korea Communications Commission, it must obtain prior approval from the Korea Communications Commission for the rates and the general terms for that service. Each year the Korea Communications Commission designates the service providers and the types of services for which the rates and the general terms must be approved by the Korea Communications Commission. In 2010, the Korea Communications Commission designated us for local telephone service and SK Telecom for cellular service. The Korea Communications Commission, in consultation with the Ministry of Strategy and Finance, 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 Korea Communications Commission in order to:

 

   

engage in certain businesses specified in the Presidential Decree under the Telecommunications Business Act, such as the telecommunications equipment manufacturing business and the 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 Korea Communications Commission. The Korea Communications Commission can revoke our licenses or order the suspension of any of our businesses if we do not comply with the regulations of the Korea Communications Commission under the Telecommunications Business Law.

 

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The responsibilities of the Korea Communications Commission also include:

 

   

formulating the basic plan for the telecommunications industry; and

 

   

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

In May 2010, the Korea Communications Commission issued a guideline that limits the marketing expenditure amounts of telecommunication service providers in Korea to 22% of their revenues, with the restrictions applicable to fixed-line and mobile segments to be calculated separately. However, up to (Won)100 billion of the marketing expenditures may be applied to either segment at the discretion of the service provider. The calculation of marketing expenditure amounts under the guideline excludes advertising expenses and the calculation of revenue amounts excludes revenues from handset sales. To encourage compliance with the non-binding guideline, the Korea Communications Commission plans to release the marketing expenditure amounts of each service provider on a quarterly basis. The Korea Communications Commission may periodically adjust the guideline to accommodate changes in market conditions.

The responsibilities of the Ministry of Knowledge Economy include:

 

   

drafting and implementing plans for developing telecommunications technology;

 

   

fostering and providing guidance to institutions and entities that conduct research relating to telecommunications; and

 

   

recommending to network service providers that they invest 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 Korea Communications Commission 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 Korea Communications Commission.

Due to the amendment of the Telecommunications 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 network 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 Korea Communications Commission and be settled, by fair and proper methods.

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

 

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lines that represent our excess capacity to other companies upon their request at rates that are determined by the Korea Communications Commission 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 are recognized as revenues from miscellaneous services.

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, 2010, 48.52% of our common shares were owned by foreign investors. In the event that a network service provider violates the shareholding restrictions, its foreign shareholders cannot exercise voting rights for their shares in excess of such limitation, and the Korea Communications Commission 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

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 Korea Communications Commission 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, the Telecommunications Business Act restricts such foreign shareholder from exercising his or her voting rights with respect to common shares exceeding such threshold. The Korea Communications Commission 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 70% of our subscribers as of December 31, 2010 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

 

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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 plants 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 do not carry any business interruption insurance.

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 networks. 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, Cisco Systems and Apple Inc.

Mobile Networks

Our mobile network architecture 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

 

   

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 our mobile networks as of December 31, 2010:

 

     CDMA      W-CDMA  

Mobile switching centers

     35         24   

Base station controllers

     300         419   

Base transceiver stations

     7,614         7,391   

Indoor and outdoor repeaters

     53,826         257,946   

 

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We have 40 MHz of bandwidth in the 1.8 GHz spectrum to provide PCS services based on CDMA wireless network standards and another 40 MHz of bandwidth in the 2.0 GHz spectrum to provide IMT-2000 services based on W-CDMA wireless network standards. Our current right to use 40 MHz of bandwidth in the 1.8 GHz spectrum is scheduled to expire at the end of June 2011. We have applied to the Korea Communications Commission to allocate back to us 20 MHz of bandwidth in the 1.8 GHz spectrum, for which we expect to pay a usage fee if reallocated to us. In addition, the Korea Communications Commission allocated 20 MHz of bandwidth in the 900 MHz spectrum to us, which will become effective on July 1, 2011. We expect to pay a portion of the actual sales generated from using the bandwidth in the 900 MHz spectrum during the license period of 10 years as a usage fee for the bandwidth, as well as a portion of expected sales as determined by the Korea Communications Commission at the time of allocation. In June 2011, the Korea Communications Commission announced its plan to auction in August 2011 the right to use 20 MHz of bandwidth in the 1.8 GHz spectrum that we are scheduled to relinquish at the end of June 2011, 10 MHz of additional bandwidth in the 800 MHz spectrum and 20 MHz of additional bandwidth in the 2.1 GHz spectrum. According to the plan, a maximum of 20 MHz of bandwidth may be sold to a single service provider, and SK Telecom and we are prohibited from bidding for the 20 MHz bandwidth in the 2.1 GHz spectrum. If we are allocated the bandwidths in the 800 MHz or the 1.8 GHz spectrums, we expect to pay usage fees for such bandwidths. We have also installed an intelligent network on our mobile network infrastructure to provide a wide range of advanced call features and value-added services.

Exchanges

Exchanges include local exchanges and “toll” exchanges that connect local exchanges to long-distance transmission facilities. We had 24.0 million lines connected to local exchanges and 16.0 million lines connected to toll exchanges as of December 31, 2010.

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. Starting in 2006, we also began conversion of our exchanges to be compatible to Internet protocol platform in preparation for building our next generation broadband convergence network by 2021. As of December 31, 2010, approximately 85% of our lines connected to toll exchanges are compatible to Internet protocol platform.

Internet Backbone

Our Internet backbone network, called KORNET, has the capacity to handle an aggregate traffic of our broadband Internet access subscribers, Internet data centers and Internet exchange system at any given moment of up to 4.6 Tbps as of December 31, 2010. 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 Internet protocol premium network that enables us to more reliably support olleh TV, WiBro, Internet Phone, upgraded VoIP services and other Internet protocol services. As of December 31, 2010, our Internet protocol premium network had 2,224,986 lines installed to provide voice over Internet protocol services and a total capacity to handle up to 595 Gbps of IP-TV, voice and WiBro service traffic.

Access Lines

As of December 31, 2010, we had 14.5 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, 2010, we had approximately 12.7 million broadband lines with speeds of at least 50 Mbps that enable us to deliver broadband Internet access and multimedia content to our customers.

 

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Transmission Network

Our domestic fiber optic cable network consisted of 484,701 kilometers of fiber optic cables as of December 31, 2010 of which 86,815 kilometers of fiber optic cables are used to connect our backbone network and 397,886 kilometers are used to connect the backbone network to our subscribers. Our backbone network utilizes dense wavelength division multiplexing technology for connecting major cities as well as optical add-drop multiplexer technology for connecting neighboring cities. Dense wavelength division multiplexing technology improves bandwidth efficiency by enabling transmission of data from multiple signals across one fiber strand in a cable by carrying each signal on a separate wavelength. We enhanced our backbone network connecting six major cities in Korea by implementing an optical cross-connector (OXC) architecture in 2008 and are in the process of building our next generation broadband convergence network through installation of network equipment utilizing optical reconfigurable add-drop multiplexer technology and multi-service provisioning platform.

Our extensive domestic long-distance network is supplemented by our fully digital domestic microwave network, which consists of 55 relay sites.

International Network

Our international network infrastructure consists of both submarine cables and satellite transmission systems, including two submarine cable-landing stations in Busan and Keoje and two satellite teleports in Kumsan and Boeun. Data services such as international private lease circuits, Internet protocol and very small aperture terminals are provided through submarine cables and satellite transmission. In order to guarantee high quality services to our end customers, our submarine cables and satellite transmission systems are linked to various points-of-presence in the United States, Asia and Europe. In addition, our international telecommunications networks are directly linked to approximately 315 telecommunications service providers in various international destinations and are routed through our three international switching centers in Seoul, Daejeon and Busan.

Our international Internet backbone with capacity of 250 Gbps is connected to approximately 180 Internet service providers through our two Internet gateways in Heawha and Guro. In addition, we operate a video backbone with capacity of one Gbps to transmit video signals from Korea to the rest of the world.

Satellites

In order to provide broadcasting, video distribution and broadband data services in select areas, we operate two satellites, Koreasat 3, 5 and 6, launched in 1999, 2006 and 2011, respectively. See “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Our Services—Satellite 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 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 1.8% interest in the 39,000-kilometer Southeast Asia-Middle East-Western Europe 3 Cable Network linking 34 countries, activated since December 1999;

 

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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 5.1% 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;

 

   

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

 

   

a 13.1% interest in the 16,500-kilometer Trans Pacific Express Cable Network linking Korea, China, Taiwan and the United States, activated since September 2008.

We have also invested in 8 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

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 total equity as of December 31, 2009 and 2010 and the results of our operations for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2010, in Note 38 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Overview

We are an integrated provider of telecommunications services. Our principal services include mobile service, fixed-line telephone services, Internet services including broadband Internet access service and data communication service. The principal factors affecting our revenues from these services have been our rates for, and the usage volume of, these services, as well as the number of subscribers. For information on rates we charge for our services, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Item 4.B. Business Overview—Revenues and Rates.” We determined our operating segments after the merger with KTF on June 1, 2009 as (i) the Personal Customer Group, which engages in mobile and wireless data communications services, (ii) the Home Customer Group and Enterprise Customer Group, which engage in fixed-line telephone services, Internet services including broadband Internet access service and data communication service, and (iii) others, which include information technology and network services, real estate development and car rental businesses.

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

 

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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:

 

   

merger of KTF into KT Corporation on June 1, 2009;

 

   

employee reductions and changes in severance and retirement benefits;

 

   

IMT-2000 service license payments;

 

   

changes in the rate structure for our services;

 

   

researching and implementing technology upgrades and additional telecommunication services; and

 

   

transition to International Financial Reporting Standards starting in 2011.

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

Merger of KTF into KT Corporation

On June 1, 2009, KTF merged into KT Corporation, with KT Corporation surviving the merger, with the objective of maximizing management efficiencies of our fixed-line and mobile telecommunications operations as well as more effectively responding to the convergence trends in the telecommunications industry. The merger was consummated pursuant to a “comprehensive stock transfer” under Article 360-15 of the Korean Commercial Code, whereby KTF common stockholders received 0.7192335 share of KT Corporation common stock for every one share of KTF common stock they owned.

The success of the merger of KTF with KT Corporation will depend, in part, on our ability to realize the anticipated synergies, growth opportunities and, to a lesser extent, cost savings from combining these two companies. The realization of these anticipated benefits may be impeded, delayed or reduced as a result of numerous factors, some of which are outside our control. Some of our challenges include difficulties in integrating the operations of KTF with those of KT Corporation, including information systems, personnel, policies and procedures, and in reorganizing or reducing overlapping personnel, operations, marketing networks and administrative functions.

Employee Reductions and Changes in Severance and Retirement Benefits

We sponsor a voluntary early retirement plan where we provide additional financial incentives for our employees who have been employed by us for more than 20 years to retire early, as part of our efforts to improve operational efficiencies. In 2008, 1,141 employees retired under our voluntary early retirement plan. In 2009, in addition to our usual voluntary early retirement plan, we held a special voluntary early retirement program in December 2009 where we received applications for voluntary early retirement from employees who had been employed by us for more than 15 years and provided them with additional financial incentives to retire early. The special voluntary early retirement program resulted in the early retirement of 5,992 employees out of 25,340 eligible employees. In aggregate, 6,515 employees retired in 2009 under the voluntary early retirement plan and the special voluntary early retirement program. In 2010, 123 employees retired under our voluntary early retirement plan. We recorded severance indemnities relating to such voluntary early retirement plan and special voluntary early retirement program of (Won)97 billion in 2008, (Won)878 billion in 2009 and (Won)13 billion in 2010.

 

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IMT-2000 Service License Payments

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 Korea Communications Commission. KTF, which subsequently merged with KT ICOM, paid (Won)110 billion in 2008, (Won)130 billion in 2009 and (Won)150 billion in 2010, and we are obligated to pay the remaining (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 Korea Communications Commission. We began offering our HSDPA-based IMT-2000 services nationwide in March 2007.

Changes in the Rate Structure for Our Services

Periodically, we change our rate structure for our 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 increased the portion of fixed income and stabilized 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. We also provide bundled packages of our various services at a discount in order to attract additional subscribers to our new services. We currently bundle our broadband Internet access service with WiBro, IP-TV, fixed-line telephone service, internet phone services and mobile services at a discount. For a discussion of adjustments in our rate structure, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—Item 4.B. Business Overview—Revenues and Rates.”

Researching and Implementing Technology Upgrades and Additional Telecommunication Services

The telecommunications industry is characterized by continual advances and improvements in telecommunications technology, and we have been continually researching and implementing technology upgrades and additional telecommunication services to maintain our competitiveness. For example, in March 2005, we acquired a license to provide WiBro service for (Won)126 billion, and commercially launched the service in June 2006. We completed the upgrade of our 4G WiBro network and expanded our WiBro service coverage to 82 cities nationwide and major highways as of March 2011, which we believe will allow us to provide WiBro services at speeds that are approximately three times faster than our previous 3G network at a lower cost, and had approximately 377 thousand subscribers as of December 31, 2010. In addition, we are currently upgrading our broadband network to enable FTTH connection, which enhances downstream speed and connection quality. 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 enables us to deliver enhanced products and services that require high bandwidth, such as IP-TV service and delivery of other digital media content. We will continue to make capital expenditures, incur research and development expenses and implement technology upgrades and additional telecommunications services in order to effectively implement continual advances and improvements in telecommunications technology.

 

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Transition to International Financial Reporting Standards Starting in 2011

In March 2007, the Financial Services Commission and the Korea Accounting Institute announced a road map for the adoption of Korean IFRS, pursuant to which all listed companies in Korea, including us, will be required to prepare their annual financial statements beginning in 2011 that differ in certain respects from IFRS applied in other countries.

In preparation of such adoption, we began preparing our internal financial statements under both Korean GAAP and Korean IFRS starting in January 2010. Beginning in 2011, we have discontinued reporting under Korean GAAP with reconciliation to U.S. GAAP and instead have commenced reporting under Korean IFRS and we also plan to release annual financial statements prepared pursuant to IFRS as issued by the IASB. Although our accounting department is currently analyzing the effects of adopting IFRS on our annual financial statements, it is not possible to estimate with any degree of certainty the exact impact on our annual financial statements from such adoption because the IFRS accounting policies to be adopted by us for such financial statements have not been finalized. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the adoption of IFRS will not adversely affect our reporting results of operations or financial condition.

Critical Accounting Policies

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 and equipment;

 

   

impairment of long-lived assets, including goodwill;

 

   

impairment of investment securities;

 

   

income taxes; and

 

   

valuation of derivatives.

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

 

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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, 2010 are summarized as follows:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2008     2009     2010  
     (In millions of Won)  

Balance at beginning of year

   (Won) 487,729      (Won) 488,739      (Won) 477,124   

Provision

     148,972        104,977        171,195   

Write-offs

     (147,962     (116,592     (133,095
                        

Balance at end of year

   (Won) 488,739      (Won) 477,124      (Won) 515,224   
                        

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)13 billion as of December 31, 2010.

Useful Lives of Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are depreciated based on the useful lives disclosed in Note 3 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 purposes 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. A decrease of remaining estimated useful life by one year of our property and equipment would result in an increase of depreciation expense of approximately (Won)248 billion in 2010.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

Long-lived assets generally consist of property 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 13 years and is amortized from the date commercial service is initiated through the end of its contractual life, which is November 2016. We started to amortize this frequency usage right in December 2003, and 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

 

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forecasts developed as part of our planning process. The results of our review using the testing method described above did not indicate any need to impair the IMT-2000 frequency usage right in 2010. The use of different assumptions within our cash flow model could result in different amounts for the IMT-2000 frequency usage right.

Impairment of Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of purchase price paid over the fair value assigned to the net assets of acquired businesses. The determination of the fair values of goodwill is based on management’s judgment on the expected cash flows of goodwill, taking market demand, competition and other economic factors into consideration.

The determination of impairments of goodwill involves the use of estimates that include, but are not limited to, the cause, timing and amount of the impairment. Impairment is based on a large number of factors, such as changes in current competitive conditions, expectations of growth in the telecommunications industry, a decline in our expected future cash flows, changes in the future availability of financing, technological obsolescence, discontinuance of services, current replacement costs and prices paid in comparable transactions. The determination of impairment of goodwill requires a significant amount of management’s judgment.

We evaluate the carrying value of goodwill annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may exceed estimated fair value. Goodwill impairment testing is a two-step process. The first step involves determining the fair value of the reporting unit and comparing that to the book value. If the fair value exceeds the book value, then no further testing is required. If the fair value is less than the book value, then a second step is performed. In the second step, the fair values of all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit, including those that may not be currently recorded, are determined. The difference between the sum of all of those fair values and the overall reporting unit’s fair value is a new implied goodwill amount that is compared to the recorded goodwill. If implied goodwill is less than the recorded goodwill, then impairment to the recorded goodwill is recorded.

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.

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.

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

 

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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.

Valuation of Derivatives

We record rights and obligations arising from derivative instruments as assets and liabilities, which are stated at fair value. Gains and losses that result from the change in the fair value of derivative instruments are recognized in current earnings. However, for derivative instruments that qualify for cash flow hedge accounts, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instruments are recorded as gain (loss) on valuation of derivatives for cash flow hedge included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).

Significant management judgment is involved in determining the fair value of derivative instruments. The estimates and assumptions used by our management to determine fair value can be impacted by many factors, such as the credit quality of each derivative counterparty, interest rate, market volatility or the overall condition of the economy and its impact on the capital markets. Any changes in these assumptions could significantly affect the valuation and timing of recognition of valuation losses classified as other than temporary.

Operating Revenues and Operating Expenses

Operating Revenues

Our operating revenues primarily consist of:

 

   

fees related to our mobile services, including initial subscription fees, monthly fees, usage charges for outgoing calls, usage charges for wireless data transmission, contents download fees and value-added monthly service fees;

 

   

fees from our fixed-line telephone services, including:

 

  Ø  

local service revenues, primarily consisting of (i) basic monthly charges and monthly usage charges (or fixed monthly charges for discount plans), (ii) revenues from value-added services, including local telephone directory assistance, call waiting and caller identification services, (iii) interconnection fees we charge to fixed-line and mobile service providers for their use of our local network in providing their services and (iv) revenues from local calls placed from public telephones;

 

  Ø  

non-refundable installation fees;

 

  Ø  

domestic long-distance service revenues, primarily consisting of (i) monthly usage charges (or fixed monthly charges for discount plans), (ii) interconnection fees we

 

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charge to fixed-line and mobile service providers and voice resellers for their use of our domestic long-distance network in providing their services and (iii) revenues from domestic long-distance calls placed from public telephones;

 

  Ø  

international long-distance service revenues, primarily consisting of (i) amounts we bill to our customers for outgoing calls made to foreign countries, (ii) amounts we bill to foreign telecommunications carriers for connection to the domestic telephone network in respect of incoming calls at the applicable settlement rate, (iii) amounts we charge to fixed-line and mobile service providers and voice resellers as interconnection fees for using our international network in providing their services and (iv) other revenues, including revenues from international calls placed from public telephones and international leased lines; and

 

  Ø  

land-to-mobile interconnection revenues;

 

   

Internet service revenues which consist of:

 

  Ø  

broadband Internet access service revenues, primarily consisting of installation fees and basic monthly charges; and

 

  Ø  

other Internet-related service revenues related to our infrastructure and solution services for business enterprises, IP-TV and network portal services.

 

   

revenues from goods sold that are generated primarily through sale of mobile handsets and specially designed phones for fixed-line and mobile convergence services;

 

   

data communications service revenues, primarily consisting of installation fees and basic monthly charges for our leased line services and Kornet Internet connection service and revenues from our satellite services; and

 

   

miscellaneous revenues that are primarily derived from information technology and network services, real estate development and car rental businesses.

Operating Expenses

Our operating expenses primarily include:

 

   

cost of goods sold, primarily consisting of our sale of mobile handsets and specially designed phones for fixed-line mobile convergence services;

 

   

depreciation and amortization expenses incurred primarily in connection with our telecommunications network facilities;

 

   

salaries and related costs, including severance indemnities that are a lump-sum amount paid to employees upon departure who have been employed by us for more than one year, share-based payments and employee welfare expenses;

 

   

sales commissions, primarily consisting of commissions to independent dealers related to procurement of mobile subscribers and mobile handset sales;

 

   

commissions, primarily consisting of payments for third-party outsourcing services, including commissions to the call center staff;

 

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interconnection charges, which are interconnection payments to mobile service providers for calls from landline users and our mobile subscribers to our competitors’ mobile service subscribers; and

 

   

promotion expenses that consist primarily of handset subsidies that we offer to purchasers of new handsets who agree to minimum subscription periods.

Operating Results—2009 Compared to 2010

The following table presents selected income statement data and changes therein for 2009 and 2010.

 

     For the Year Ended
December 31,
     Changes  
      2009 vs. 2010  
     2009     2010      Amount      %  
     (In billions of Won)  

Operating revenues

   (Won) 19,644      (Won) 21,331       (Won) 1,687         8.6

Operating expenses

     18,673        19,156         483         2.6   
                            

Operating income

     971        2,175         1,204         124.1   

Non-operating expense, net

     251        613         362         144.2   
                            

Income from continuing operations before income tax expense

     719        1,562         843         117.2   

Income tax expense on continuing operations

     108        372         264         244.4   

Income (loss) from discontinued operations

     (2     3         5         N.A.   
                            

Net income

   (Won) 610      (Won) 1,193       (Won) 583         95.6
                            

 

 

N.A. means not available.

Operating Revenues

The following table presents a breakdown of our operating revenues and changes therein for 2009 and 2010.

 

     For the Year Ended
December 31,
     Changes  
      2009 vs. 2010  
     2009      2010      Amount     %  
     (In billions of Won)  

Mobile services

   (Won) 6,646       (Won) 7,083       (Won) 437        6.6

Fixed-line telephone services:

          

Local service revenues

     2,674         2,563         (111     (4.2

Non-refundable service installation fees

     17         15         (2     (11.8

Domestic long-distance revenues

     475         381         (94     (19.8

International long-distance revenues

     384         362         (22     (5.7

Land-to-mobile interconnection revenues

     1,147         949         (198     (17.3
                            

Sub-total

     4,697         4,270         (427     (9.1

Internet services:

          

Broadband internet access service

     1,942         1,941         (1     (0.1

Other Internet-related services

     507         626         119        23.5   
                            

Sub-total

     2,449         2,567         118        4.8   

Goods sold

     3,397         4,395         998        29.4   

Data communication services

     1,314         1,309         (5     (0.4

Other

     1,141         1,707         566        49.6   
                            

Total operating revenues

   (Won) 19,644       (Won) 21,331       (Won) 1,687        8.6
                            

 

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Total operating revenues increased by 8.6%, or (Won)1,687 billion, from (Won)19,644 billion in 2009 to (Won)21,331 billion in 2010 primarily due to increases in our mobile handset sales, other operating revenues and mobile service revenues, the impact of which was partially offset by decreases in our fixed-line telephone service revenues.

Mobile Services

Our mobile service revenues increased by 6.6%, or (Won)437 billion, from (Won)6,646 billion in 2009 to (Won)7,083 billion in 2010 primarily due to a 6.8% increase in the number of mobile subscribers from 15.0 million as of December 31, 2009 to 16.0 million as of December 31, 2010.

Fixed-line Telephone Services

Our fixed-line telephone service revenues decreased by 9.1%, or (Won)427 billion, from (Won)4,697 billion in 2009 to (Won)4,270 billion in 2010 primarily due to decreases in land-to-mobile interconnection revenues, local service revenues and domestic long-distance revenues. Specifically:

 

   

Land-to-mobile interconnection revenues decreased by 17.3%, or (Won)198 billion, from (Won)1,147 billion in 2009 to (Won)949 billion in 2010 primarily due to an increase in the volume of calls between mobile subscribers, which in turn led to a reduction in the volume of calls between landline users to mobile subscribers.

 

   

Local service revenues decreased by 4.2%, or (Won)111 billion, from (Won)2,674 billion in 2009 to (Won)2,563 billion in 2010. The number of local call pulses decreased by 5.2% from 2009 to 2010 primarily due to the substitution effect from increase in usage of mobile telephone services and Internet phone services. However, the effect of such decreases was partially offset by participation by some of our subscribers in optional flat rate plans, as well as an increase in revenues from VoIP services.

 

   

Domestic long-distance revenues decreased by 19.8%, or (Won)94 billion, from (Won)475 billion in 2009 to (Won)381 billion in 2010 primarily due to a decrease in the number of domestic long-distance call minutes by 23.2% from 2009 to 2010 primarily due to the substitution effect from increase in usage of mobile telephone services and Internet phone services. The effect of such decreases was partially offset by participation by some of our subscribers in optional flat rate plans.

Internet Services

Our Internet service revenues increased by 4.8%, or (Won)118 billion, from (Won)2,449 billion in 2009 to (Won)2,567 billion in 2010 primarily due to an increase in the number of IP-TV subscribers from 1.2 million as of December 31, 2009 to 2.1 million as of December 31, 2010. The revenues from broadband Internet access service remained stable at (Won)1,942 billion in 2009 and (Won)1,941 billion in 2010.

Goods Sold

Revenues from goods sold increased by 29.4%, or (Won)998 billion, from (Won)3,397 billion in 2009 to (Won)4,395 billion in 2010 primarily due to an increase in the number of HSDPA-based IMT-2000 service compatible handsets and smart phones sold, including Apple iPhones that we launched in November 2009.

 

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Data Communications

Data communications service revenues decreased by 0.4%, or (Won)5 billion, from (Won)1,314 billion in 2009 to (Won)1,309 billion in 2010 primarily due to service fee discounts offered to government agencies and a decrease in revenues related to Kornet broadband Internet connection service to institutional customers resulting from the expiration of certain leased-line contracts.

Others

Other operating revenues increased by 49.6%, or (Won)566 billion, from (Won)1,141 billion in 2009 to (Won)1,707 billion in 2010 primarily due to an increase in sales of our real estate properties.

Operating Expenses

The following table presents a breakdown of our operating expenses and changes therein for 2009 and 2010.

 

     For the Year Ended
December 31,
     Changes  
        2009 vs. 2010  
             2009          2010              Amount             %      
     (In billions of Won)  

Salaries and wages

   (Won) 2,193       (Won) 2,163       (Won) (30     (1.4

Provision for severance benefits

     1,128         243         (885     (78.5

Employee welfare

     587         374         (213     (36.2

Depreciation

     2,874         2,820         (54     (1.9

Commissions

     1,262         1,450         188        14.9   

Interconnection charges

     1,227         1,245         18        1.5   

Cost of services

     582         804         222        38.2   

Cost of goods sold

     3,119         4,087         968        31.1   

Promotion expenses

     1,122         1,228         106        9.4   

Sales commissions

     1,805         1,621         (184     (10.1

Others (1)

     2,774         3,121         347        12.4   
                            

Total operating expenses

   (Won) 18,673       (Won) 19,156       (Won) 483        2.6
                            

 

 

(1) Including transfer to other accounts.

Total operating expenses increased by 2.6%, or (Won)483 billion, from (Won)18,673 billion in 2009 to (Won) 19,156 billion in 2010 primarily due to increases in cost of goods sold, cost of services, commissions and promotion expenses, the impact of which was partially offset by decreases in provision for severance benefits related to special voluntary early retirement programs, employee welfare and sales commissions. Specifically:

 

   

Cost of goods sold increased by 31.1%, or (Won)968 billion, from (Won)3,119 billion in 2009 to (Won) 4,087 billion in 2010 primarily due to an increase in the number of high-end HSDPA-compatible handsets and smart phones sold, including the Apple iPhone that we launched in November 2009, as well as various other smart phones that we launched in 2010.

 

   

Cost of services, which primarily relate to purchases of content for IP-TV services, increased by 38.2%, or (Won)222 billion, from (Won)582 billion in 2009 to (Won)804 billion in 2010 primarily due to an increase in sales of pay-per-view programming to IP-TV subscribers.

 

   

Our commissions, which primarily relate to payments for third-party outsourcing services, including commissions to the call center staff, increased by 14.9%, or (Won)188 billion, from (Won) 1,262 billion in 2009 to (Won)1,450 billion in 2010 primarily due to outsourcing of our activation and installation activities to third-parties.

 

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Our promotion expenses, which consist primarily of handset subsidies, increased by 9.4%, or (Won)106 billion, from (Won)1,122 billion in 2009 to (Won)1,228 billion in 2010 primarily due to an increase in the sales volume of HSDPA-compatible handsets and smart phones.

These factors were partially offset by the following:

 

   

Our provision for severance benefits decreased by 78.5%, or (Won)885 billion, from (Won)1,128 billion in 2009 to (Won)243 billion in 2010 primarily due to a decrease in provision for severance benefits relating to a special voluntary early retirement program. In December 2009, we held a special voluntary early retirement program in which 5,992 employees participated and received additional financial incentives to retire early, whereas we did not have any such special voluntary early retirement program in 2010.

 

   

Employee welfare, which primarily relates to expenditures for employees such as education and healthcare subsidies, decreased by 36.2%, or (Won)213 billion, from (Won)587 billion in 2009 to (Won)374 billion in 2010 primarily due to a change in our compensation policy which reduced certain seasonal bonuses classified as employee welfare, and instead increased benefits classified as salaries.

 

   

Sales commissions, which primarily relate to procurement of mobile subscribers and mobile handset sales by our independent dealers, decreased by 10.1%, or (Won)184 billion, from (Won)1,805 billion in 2009 to (Won)1,621 billion in 2010 primarily due to a decrease in the rate of sales commissions we paid to our independent dealers.

Operating Income

Due to the factors described above, our operating income increased by 124.1%, or (Won)1,204 billion, from (Won)971 billion in 2009 to (Won)2,175 billion in 2010. Our operating margin, which is operating income as a percentage of operating revenues, increased from 4.9% in 2009 to 10.2% in 2010.

Non-Operating Income (Expenses)

The following table presents a breakdown of our non-operating income and expenses on a net basis and changes therein for 2009 and 2010.

 

     For the Year Ended
December 31,
    Changes  
       2009 vs. 2010  
         2009             2010             Amount         %  
     (In billions of Won)  

Interest income

   (Won) 197      (Won) 143      (Won) (54     (27.5 )% 

Interest expense

     (505     (529     (24     4.7   

Net foreign currency transaction loss

     (4     (3     1        (27.9

Net foreign currency translation gain

     223        34        (189     (84.8

Net gain (loss) on valuation of equity method investments

     (14     27        41        N.A.   

Net loss on disposal of property and equipment

     (119     (165     (46     38.7   

Net gain (loss) on settlement of derivatives

     1        (1     (2     N.A.   

Net loss on valuation of derivatives

     (174     (8     166        (95.5

Other bad debts expense

     (47     (9     38        (80.2

Donations

     (39     (81     (42     106.2   

Net other non-operating revenues (losses)

     230        (21     (251     N.A.   
                          

Net non-operating expenses

   (Won) (251   (Won) (613   (Won) (362     144.2
                          

 

 

N.A. means not available.

 

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Our net non-operating expenses increased by 144.2%, or (Won)362 billion, from (Won)251 billion in 2009 to (Won)613 billion in 2010 primarily due to our recognition of net other non-operating revenues in 2009 compared to net other non-operating losses in 2010, a decrease in net foreign currency translation gain, a decrease in interest income, an increase in net loss on disposal of property and equipment and an increase in donations, the impact of which was partially offset by a decrease in net loss on valuation of derivatives. Specifically:

 

   

We recorded net other non-operating revenues of (Won)230 billion in 2009 compared to net other non-operating losses of (Won)21 billion in 2010 primarily due to refunds of (Won)90 billion to our subscribers of fixed-line telephone services with optional flat rate plans who requested termination of such plans in 2010.

 

   

Our net foreign currency translation gain decreased by 84.8%, or (Won)189 billion, from (Won)223 billion in 2009 to (Won)34 billion in 2010 as the Market Average Exchange Rate of the Won against the U.S. dollar appreciated from (Won)1,257.5 to US$1.00 as of December 31, 2008 to (Won) 1,167.6 to US$1.00 as of December 31, 2009 but the level of appreciation decreased during 2010 to (Won)1,138.9 to US$1.00 as of December 31, 2010. The impact of such decrease in net foreign currency translation gain was largely offset by a decrease in net loss on valuation of derivatives discussed below.

 

   

Our interest income decreased by 27.5%, or (Won)54 billion, from (Won)197 billion in 2009 to (Won)143 billion in 2010 primarily due to a decrease in our average balance of interest-earning assets from 2009 to 2010, including our holdings of cash and cash equivalents, as well as a general decrease in interest rates in Korea during such periods.

 

   

Our net loss on disposal of property and equipment increased by 38.7%, or (Won)46 billion, from (Won)119 billion in 2009 to (Won)165 billion in 2010 primarily due to an increase in equipment disposal, in particular machinery.

 

   

Our donations increased by 106.2%, or (Won)42 billion, from (Won)39 billion in 2009 to (Won)81 billion in 2010 primarily due to an increase in our donations to employee welfare funds.

These factors were partially offset by our net loss on valuation of derivatives, which decreased by 95.5%, or (Won)166 billion, from (Won)174 billion in 2009 to (Won)8 billion in 2010 primarily due to a decrease in losses from our combined interest rate currency swap contracts as the exchange rate of the Won against the U.S. dollar fluctuated as discussed above.

Income Tax Expense on Continuing Operations

Our income tax expense on continuing operations increased by 244.4%, or (Won)264 billion, from (Won) 108 billion in 2009 to (Won)372 billion in 2010 primarily due to an increase in income before income tax expense as well as a decrease in tax credit carryforwards and deductions. See Note 26 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. Our effective tax rate increased from 15.0% in 2009 to 23.8% in 2010, primarily due to a decrease in tax credit carryforwards and deductions in 2010. We had net deferred income tax assets of (Won)545 billion as of December 31, 2010.

Net Income

Due to the factors described above, our net income increased by 95.6%, or (Won)583 billion, from (Won) 610 billion in 2009 to (Won)1,193 billion in 2010. Our net income margin, which is net income as a percentage of operating revenues, increased from 3.1% in 2009 to 5.6% in 2010.

 

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Segment Results—Personal Customer Group

Our operating revenues for this segment, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, increased by 11.5%, or (Won)1,074 billion, from (Won)9,314 billion in 2009 to (Won)10,388 billion in 2010, primarily due to an increase in the number of mobile subscribers as well as an increase in HSDPA-compatible handsets and smart phones sold.

Our operating income, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, increased by 42.1%, or (Won) 438 billion, from (Won)1,040 billion in 2009 to (Won)1,478 billion in 2010, as the 11.5% increase in the segment’s operating revenues outpaced a 7.7% increase in operating expenses, primarily due to the reasons discussed above. Operating margin, which is operating income as a percentage of total operating revenues prior to adjusting for inter-company sales, increased from 11.2% in 2009 to 14.2% in 2010.

Depreciation and amortization, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, decreased by 8.4%, or (Won)85 billion, from (Won)1,014 billion in 2009 to (Won)929 billion in 2010. Property and equipment and intangible assets, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, decreased by 1.2%, or (Won)56 billion, from (Won)4,757 billion in 2009 to (Won)4,701 billion in 2010.

Segment Results—Home Customer Group and Enterprise Customer Group

Our operating revenues for this segment, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, decreased by 2.6%, or (Won)263 billion, from (Won)10,109 billion in 2009 to (Won)9,846 billion in 2010, primarily due to a decrease in fixed-line telephone service revenues, the impact of which was partially offset by an increase in revenues from Internet-related services.

We recorded operating loss, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, of (Won)44 billion in 2009 compared to operating income of (Won)575 billion in 2010, as the 8.7% decrease in the segment’s operating expenses outpaced a 2.6% decrease in operating revenues, primarily due to the reasons discussed above. Operating margins were (0.4)% in 2009 and 5.8% in 2010.

Depreciation and amortization, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, decreased by 3.4%, or (Won)69 billion, from (Won)2,055 billion in 2009 to (Won)1,986 billion in 2010. Property and equipment and intangible assets, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, decreased by 2.5%, or (Won)268 billion, from (Won)10,653 billion in 2009 to (Won)10,385 billion in 2010.

Segment Results—Others

Our operating revenues for this segment, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, increased by 38.1%, or (Won)922 billion, from (Won)2,424 billion in 2009 to (Won)3,346 billion in 2010, primarily due to an increase in sales of our real estate properties.

We recorded operating loss, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, of (Won)5 billion in 2009 compared to operating income of (Won)149 billion in 2010, as the 38.1% increase in the segment’s operating revenues outpaced a 31.6% increase in operating expenses. Operating margins were (0.2)% in 2009 and 4.5% in 2010.

Depreciation and amortization, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, increased by 28.4%, or (Won)57 billion, from (Won)200 billion in 2009 to (Won)257 billion in 2010. Property and equipment and intangible assets, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, increased by 113.8%, or (Won)705 billion, from (Won)619 billion in 2009 to (Won)1,324 billion in 2010.

 

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Operating Results—2008 Compared to 2009

The following table presents selected income statement data and changes therein for 2008 and 2009.

 

     For the Year Ended
December 31,
    Changes  
       2008 vs. 2009  
     2008     2009     Amount     %  
     (In billions of Won)  

Operating revenues

   (Won) 19,587      (Won) 19,644      (Won) 57        0.3

Operating expenses

     18,144        18,673        529        2.9   
                          

Operating income

     1,443        971        (472     (32.7

Net non-operating income (expense)

     (733     (251     482        (65.8
                          

Income from continuing operations before income tax expense

     710        719        9        1.3   

Income tax expense on continuing operations

     168        108        (60     (35.7

Income (loss) from discontinued operations

     (29     (2     27        93.1   
                          

Net income

   (Won) 513      (Won) 610      (Won) 97        18.9
                          

Operating Revenues

The following table presents a breakdown of our operating revenues and changes therein for 2008 and 2009.

 

     For the Year Ended
December 31,
     Changes  
        2008 vs. 2009  
     2008      2009      Amount     %  
     (In billions of Won)  

Mobile services

   (Won) 6,424       (Won) 6,646       (Won) 222        3.5

Fixed-line telephone services:

          

Local service revenues

     2,752         2,674         (78     (2.8

Non-refundable service installation fee

     28         17         (11     (39.3

Domestic long-distance revenues

     587         475         (112     (19.1

International long-distance revenues

     442         384         (58     (13.1

Land-to-mobile interconnection revenues

     1,391         1,147         (244     (17.5
                            

Sub-total

     5,200         4,697         (503     (9.7

Internet services:

          

Broadband internet access service

     2,041         1,942         (99     (4.9

Other Internet-related services

     440         507         67        15.2   
                            

Sub-total

     2,481         2,449         (32     (1.3

Goods sold

     3,066         3,397         331        10.8   

Data communication services

     1,336         1,314         (22     (1.6

Other

     1,080         1,141         61        5.6   
                            

Total operating revenues

   (Won) 19,587       (Won) 19,644       (Won) 57        0.3
                            

Total operating revenues increased by 0.3%, or (Won)57 billion, from (Won)19,587 billion in 2008 to (Won)19,644 billion in 2009 primarily due to increases in our mobile handset sales, mobile service revenues and other operating revenues, the impact of which was partially offset by decreases in our fixed-line telephone service revenues, Internet service revenues and data communication service revenues.

Mobile Services

Mobile service revenues increased by 3.5%, or (Won)222 billion, from (Won)6,424 billion in 2008 to (Won)6,646 billion in 2009 primarily due to a 4.5% increase in the number of mobile subscribers from 14.4 million as of December 31, 2008 to 15.0 million as of December 31, 2009.

 

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Fixed-line Telephone Services

Our fixed-line telephone service revenues decreased by 9.7%, or (Won)503 billion, from (Won)5,200 billion in 2008 to (Won)4,697 billion in 2009 primarily due to decreases in land-to-mobile interconnection revenues, domestic long-distance revenues and local service revenues. Specifically:

 

   

Land-to-mobile interconnection revenues decreased by 17.5%, or (Won)244 billion, from (Won)1,391 billion in 2008 to (Won)1,147 billion in 2009 primarily due to an increase in the volume of calls between mobile subscribers, which in turn reduced the volume of calls between landline users to mobile subscribers.

 

   

Domestic long-distance revenues decreased by 19.1%, or (Won)112 billion, from (Won)587 billion in 2008 to (Won)475 billion in 2009 primarily due to a decrease in the number of domestic long-distance call minutes in 2009 compared to 2008 primarily due to the substitution effect from increase in usage of mobile telephone services and Internet phone services. The effect of such decreases was partially offset by participation by some of our subscribers in optional flat rate plans.

 

   

Local service revenues decreased by 2.8%, or (Won)78 billion, from (Won)2,752 billion in 2008 to (Won)2,674 billion in 2009. The number of local call pulses in 2009 compared to 2008 decreased by 32.5% primarily due to the substitution effect from increase in usage of mobile telephone services and the Internet phone services. However, the effect of such decreases was substantially offset by participation by some of our subscribers in optional flat rate plans, as well as an increase in revenues from value-added services.

Internet Services

Our Internet service revenues decreased by 1.3%, or (Won)32 billion, from (Won)2,481 billion in 2008 to (Won)2,449 billion in 2009 primarily due to a decrease in broadband Internet access service revenues, the impact of which was partially offset by an increase in other Internet-related service revenues. Specifically:

 

   

Broadband Internet access service revenues decreased by 4.9%, or (Won)99 billion, from (Won)2,041 billion in 2008 to (Won)1,942 billion in 2009, primarily due to discounts offered to long-term subscribers and bundled products in 2009. The effect of such decreases was offset in part by an increase in the number of fixed-line olleh Internet subscribers from 6.7 million subscribers as of December 31, 2008 to 7.0 million subscribers as of December 31, 2009.

 

   

Other Internet-related service revenues increased by 15.2%, or (Won)67 billion, from (Won)440 billion in 2008 to (Won)507 billion in 2009 primarily due to increases in revenues from our IP-TV services.

Goods Sold

Revenues from goods sold increased by 10.8%, or (Won)331 billion, from (Won)3,066 billion in 2008 to (Won)3,397 billion in 2009 primarily due to an increase in the number of HSDPA-based IMT-2000 service compatible handsets and smart phones sold, including the Apple iPhone that we launched in November 2009.

Data Communications

Data communications service revenues decreased by 1.6%, or (Won)22 billion, from (Won)1,336 billion in 2008 to (Won)1,314 billion in 2009 primarily due to service fee discounts offered to government agencies and a decrease in revenues related to Kornet broadband Internet connection service to institutional customers resulting from the expiration of certain leased-line contracts.

 

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Others

Other operating revenues increased by 5.6%, or (Won)61 billion, from (Won)1,080 billion in 2008 to (Won)1,141 billion in 2009 primarily due to an increase in revenues from real estate development activities.

Operating Expenses

The following table presents a breakdown of our operating expenses and changes therein for 2008 and 2009.

 

     For the Year Ended
December 31,
     Changes  
        2008 vs. 2009  
     2008      2009      Amount     %  
     (In billions of Won)  

Salaries and wages

   (Won) 2,268       (Won) 2,193       (Won) (75     (3.3 )% 

Severance indemnities

     361         1,128         767        212.5   

Depreciation

     3,214         2,874         (340     (10.6

Commissions

     1,354         1,262         (92     (6.8

Interconnection charges

     1,234         1,227         (7     (0.6

Cost of goods sold

     2,365         3,119         754        31.9   

Promotion expenses

     1,080         1,122         42        3.9   

Sales commissions

     2,130         1,805         (325     (15.3

Others (1)

     4,138         3,943         (195     (4.7
                            

Total operating expenses

   (Won) 18,144       (Won) 18,673       (Won) 529        2.9
                            

 

 

(1) Including transfer to other accounts.

Total operating expenses increased by 2.9%, or (Won)529 billion, from (Won)18,144 billion in 2008 to (Won)18,673 billion in 2009 primarily due to increases in severance indemnities related to special voluntary early retirement programs and cost of goods sold, the impact of which was partially offset by decreases in depreciation, sales commissions and commissions. Specifically:

 

   

Our severance indemnities increased significantly by 212.5%, or (Won)767 billion, from (Won)361 billion in 2008 to (Won)1,128 billion in 2009 primarily due to an increase in severance indemnities relating to a special voluntary early retirement program. In December 2009, we held a special voluntary early retirement program where we received applications for voluntary early retirement from employees who had been employed by us for more than 15 years and provided them with additional financial incentives to retire early.

 

   

Cost of goods sold increased by 31.9%, or (Won)754 billion, from (Won)2,365 billion in 2008 to (Won)3,119 billion in 2009 primarily due to an increase in the sales of Internet phone handsets as well as an increase in the number of high-end HSDPA-compatible handsets and smart phones sold, including the Apple iPhone that we launched in November 2009.

These factors were partially offset by the following:

 

   

Depreciation decreased by 10.6%, or (Won)340 billion, from (Won)3,214 billion in 2008 to (Won)2,874 billion in 2009 reflecting a general decrease in our capital expenditures through 2009.

 

   

Sales commissions, which primarily relate to procurement of mobile subscribers and mobile handset sales by our independent dealers, decreased by 15.3%, or (Won)325 billion, from (Won)2,130 billion in 2008 to (Won)1,805 billion in 2009 primarily due to a decrease in the number of new mobile subscribers.

 

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Operating Income

Due to the factors described above, our operating income decreased by 32.7%, or (Won)472 billion, from (Won)1,443 billion in 2008 to (Won)971 billion in 2009. Our operating margin, which is operating income as a percentage of operating revenues, decreased from 7.4% in 2008 to 4.9% in 2009.

Non-Operating Income (Expenses)

The following table presents a breakdown of our non-operating income and expenses on a net basis and changes therein for 2008 and 2009.

 

           Changes  
     For the Year Ended
December 31,
    2008 vs. 2009  
     2008     2009     Amount     %  
     (In billions of Won)  

Interest income

   (Won) 151      (Won) 197      (Won) 46        30.5

Interest expense

     (480     (505     (25     5.2   

Net foreign currency transaction gain (loss)

     3        (4     (7     N.A.   

Net foreign currency translation gain (loss)

     (762     223        985        N.A.   

Net gain on disposal of equity method investment securities

            62        62        N.M.   

Net loss on disposal of property and equipment

     (90     (119     (29     32.6   

Reversal of impairment loss on property and equipment

     6        103        97        1,616.7   

Net gain on settlement of derivatives

     8        1        (7     (87.5

Net gain (loss) on valuation of derivatives

     640        (174     (814     N.A.   

Net other gains (losses)

     (208     (35     173        (83.2
                          

Net non-operating income (expenses)

   (Won) (733   (Won) (251   (Won) 482        (65.8 )% 
                          

 

 

N.A. means not applicable.

 

N.M. means not meaningful.

Our net non-operating expenses decreased by 65.8%, or (Won)482 billion, from (Won)733 billion in 2008 to (Won)251 billion in 2009 primarily due to net foreign currency translation loss in 2008 compared to net foreign currency translation gain in 2009, an increase in reversal of impairment loss on property and equipment and net loss on disposal of equity method investment securities in 2008 compared to net gain on disposal of equity method investment securities in 2009, the impact of which was partially offset by net gain on valuation of derivatives in 2008 compared to net loss on valuation of derivatives in 2009. Specifically:

 

   

We recorded net foreign currency translation loss of (Won)762 billion in 2008 compared to net foreign currency translation gain of (Won)223 billion in 2009 as the Market Average Exchange Rate of the Won against the U.S. dollar depreciated from (Won) 938.2 to US$1.00 as of December 31, 2007 to (Won)1,257.5 to US$1.00 as of December 31, 2008 but appreciated to (Won)1,167.6 to US$1.00 as of December 31, 2009. The impact of such foreign currency translation gain/loss was largely offset by loss/gain from valuation of derivatives discussed below.

 

   

Our reversal of impairment loss on property and equipment increased sixteen-fold, or (Won)97 billion, from (Won)6 billion in 2008 to (Won)103 billion in 2009 primarily due to an increase in compensation that we received from third parties for relocation of our property and equipment that resulted in impairment loss.

 

   

We did not record any net gain on disposal of equity method investment securities in 2008 compared to net gain on disposal of equity method investment securities of (Won)62 billion in

 

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2009. We recorded such gain in 2009 primarily due to the sale of our interest in U-Mobile. We sold all of our interest in U-Mobile with a book value of (Won)65 billion for US$100 million to a third party in September 2009.

These factors were partially offset by the following:

 

   

We recorded net gain on valuation of derivatives of (Won)640 billion in 2008 compared to net loss on valuation of derivatives of (Won)174 billion in 2009 primarily due to gains and losses from our combined interest rate currency swap contracts as the exchange rate of the Won against the U.S. dollar fluctuated as discussed above.

Income Taxes Expense on Continuing Operations

Our income tax expense on continuing operations decreased by 35.7%, or (Won)60 billion, from (Won)168 billion in 2008 to (Won)108 billion in 2009 primarily due to decreases from changes in deferred income tax assets unrecognized related to equity method investment securities as well as tax rate changes, the impact of which was partially offset by a decrease in tax credits. See Note 26 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. Our effective tax rate decreased from 23.7% in 2008 to 15.1% in 2009, primarily due to higher tax credit carryforwards in 2009 compared to 2008. We had net deferred income tax assets of (Won)551 billion as of December 31, 2009.

Net Income

Due to the factors described above, our net income increased by 18.9%, or (Won)97 billion, from (Won)513 billion in 2008 to (Won)610 billion in 2009. Our net income margin, which is net income as a percentage of operating revenues, increased from 2.6% in 2008 to 3.1% in 2009.

Segment Results—Personal Customer Group

Our operating revenues for this segment, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, increased by 11.6%, or (Won)968 billion, from (Won)8,346 billion in 2008 to (Won)9,314 billion in 2009, primarily due to an increase in the number of mobile subscribers as well as an increase in HSDPA-compatible handsets and smart phones sold.

Our operating income, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, increased by 129.1%, or (Won)586 billion, from (Won)454 billion in 2008 to (Won)1,040 billion in 2009, as the 11.6% increase in the segment’s operating revenues outpaced a 4.8% increase in operating expenses, primarily due to the reasons discussed above. Operating margin increased from 5.4% in 2008 to 11.2% in 2009.

Depreciation and amortization, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, decreased by 9.3%, or (Won)104 billion, from (Won)1,118 billion in 2008 to (Won)1,014 billion in 2009. Property and equipment and intangible assets, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, decreased by 3.7%, or (Won)181 billion, from (Won)4,938 billion in 2008 to (Won)4,757 billion in 2009.

Segment Results—Home Customer Group and Enterprise Customer Group

Our operating revenues for this segment, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, decreased by 14.2%, or (Won)1,676 billion, from (Won)11,785 billion in 2008 to (Won)10,109 billion in 2009, primarily due to a decrease in fixed-line telephone service revenues, the impact of which was partially offset by an increase in revenues from Internet-related services.

We recorded operating income, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, of (Won)1,113 billion in 2008 compared to operating loss of (Won)44 billion in 2009, as the 14.2% decrease in the segment’s operating revenues outpaced a 4.9% decrease in operating expenses, primarily due to the reasons discussed above. Operating margins were 9.4% in 2008 and (0.4)% in 2009.

 

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Depreciation and amortization, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, decreased by 6.8%, or (Won)150 billion, from (Won)2,205 billion in 2008 to (Won)2,055 billion in 2009. Property and equipment and intangible assets, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, decreased by 1.6%, or (Won)173 billion, from (Won)10,826 billion in 2008 to (Won)10,653 billion in 2009.

Segment Results—Others

Our operating revenues for this segment, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, increased by 3.0%, or (Won)70 billion, from (Won)2,354 billion in 2008 to (Won)2,424 billion in 2009, primarily due to an increase in revenues from our media intellectual property rights.

We recorded operating income, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, of (Won)29 billion in 2008 compared to operating loss of (Won)5 billion in 2009, as the 4.4% increase in the segment’s operating expenses outpaced a 3.0% increase in operating revenues, primarily due to the reasons discussed above. Operating margins were 1.2% in 2008 and (0.2)% in 2009.

Depreciation and amortization, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, increased by 26.6%, or (Won)42 billion, from (Won)158 billion in 2008 to (Won)200 billion in 2009. Property and equipment and intangible assets, prior to adjusting for inter-segment transactions, decreased by 6.2%, or (Won)41 billion, from (Won)660 billion in 2008 to (Won)619 billion in 2009.

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,  
           2008                 2009                 2010        
     (In billions of Won)  

Net cash provided by operating activities

   (Won) 2,920      (Won) 3,399      (Won) 3,245   

Net cash used in investing activities

     (3,532     (2,872     (3,436

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     1,051        (930     (129

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     1,385        1,891        1,538   

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

     1,891        1,538        1,193   

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     506        (353     (345

Capital Requirements

Historically, our capital requirements consisted principally of purchases of property and equipment and other assets and repayments of borrowings. In our investing activities, we used cash of (Won)3,362 billion in 2008, (Won)2,774 billion in 2009 and (Won)3,239 billion in 2010 for the acquisition of property and equipment, primarily construction-in-progress. In our financing activities, we used cash of (Won)2,147 billion in 2008, (Won)1,446 billion in 2009 and (Won)1,895 billion in 2010 for repayment of current portion of bonds and long-term borrowings.

In recent years, we have also required capital for acquisitions of treasury shares for retirement and payments of retirement and severance benefits related to our early retirement programs. For the acquisition of treasury shares for retirement, we spent (Won)74 billion in 2008, (Won)528 billion in 2009 and (Won)0.3 billion in 2010. Subsequent to such repurchases, we retired most of the treasury shares that we repurchased. We also recorded payments of severance benefits of (Won)221 billion in 2008, (Won)1,345 billion in 2009 and (Won)1,249 billion in 2010. In 2009 and 2010, our payments were particularly high due to a special voluntary early retirement program held in December 2009 in which we received applications for voluntary early retirement from employees who had been employed by us for more

 

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than 15 years and provided them with additional financial incentives to retire early. The special voluntary early retirement program resulted in the early retirement of 5,992 employees out of 25,340 eligible employees.

From time to time, we may also require capital for investments involving acquisitions, including shares of our affiliates, and strategic relationships. On June 1, 2009, KTF merged into KT Corporation pursuant to a “comprehensive stock transfer” under Article 360-15 of the Korean Commercial Code, whereby KTF common stockholders received 0.7192335 share of KT Corporation common stock for every one share of KTF common stock they owned. We delivered 45,629,480 treasury shares and 700,108 shares of our newly issued common shares to KTF shareholders in connection with the merger.

Our cash dividends amounted to (Won)409 billion in 2008, (Won)229 billion in 2009 and (Won)494 billion in 2010.

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 purchase of additional treasury shares and shares of our affiliates as well as investments involving acquisitions and strategic relationships. We compete in the telecommunications sector in Korea, which is rapidly evolving. In recent years, business combinations in the telecommunications industry have significantly changed the competitive landscape of the Korean telecommunications industry. 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. We have also provided guarantees to our affiliates. See 18 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a disclosure of the guarantees provided.

The following table sets forth selected information regarding our contractual obligations to make future payments as of December 31, 2010:

 

     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) 9,686       (Won) 2,437       (Won) 3,825       (Won) 2,432       (Won) 1,082   

Capital lease obligations

     22         6         16                   

Operating lease obligations

     8         5         3                   

Severance payment obligations

     469         3         9         62         395   

Long-term accounts payable—others

     170         170                           
                                            

Total

   (Won) 10,355       (Won) 2,621       (Won) 3,853       (Won) 2,494       (Won) 1,477   
                                            

Estimate of interest payment based on contractual interest rates effective as of December 31, 2010

   (Won) 1,406       (Won) 449       (Won) 573       (Won) 206       (Won) 179   
                                            

 

 

(1) Contractual obligations represent 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.

 

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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. From time to time, we have also disposed of our treasury shares to meet our capital requirements.

Our major sources of cash have been net cash provided by operating activities, including net income, expenses not involving cash payments such as depreciation and amortization, and proceeds from issuance of bonds and long-term borrowings. We expect that these sources will continue to be our principal sources of cash in the future. Net income was (Won)513 billion in 2008, (Won)610 billion in 2009 and (Won)1,193 billion in 2010 due to the reasons discussed in Item 5.A. Operating Results. Depreciation and amortization was (Won)3,703 billion in 2008, (Won)3,361 billion in 2009 and (Won)3,285 billion in 2010 primarily reflecting our capital investment activities during the recent years. Aggregate cash proceeds from issuance of bonds and long-term borrowings were (Won)3,780 billion in 2008, (Won)1,499 billion in 2009 and (Won)2,035 billion in 2010. We also met the capital required for the June 2009 merger with KTF through delivery of 45,629,480 treasury shares and 700,108 shares of our newly issued common shares to KTF shareholders in consideration of the merger. As of December 31, 2010, we held 17,895,964 treasury shares.

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, 2010. However, our ability to rely on some of these alternatives could be affected by factors such as the liquidity of the Korean and the global 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 shareholders’ equity was (Won)11,088 billion as of December 31, 2008, (Won)10,667 billion as of December 31, 2009 and (Won)11,496 billion as of December 31, 2010.

Liquidity

We had a working capital (current assets minus current liabilities) surplus of (Won)1,833 billion as of December 31, 2008, (Won)1,031 billion as of December 31, 2009 and (Won)643 billion as of December 31, 2010. The following table sets forth the summary of our significant current assets for the periods indicated.

 

     As of December 31,  
     2008      2009      2010  
     (In billions of Won)  

Cash and cash equivalents, net

   (Won) 1,891       (Won) 1,538       (Won) 1,193   

Short-term investment assets

     417         444         166   

Trade accounts receivable, net

     3,015         3,622         3,843   

Inventories, net

     425         699         656   

Our cash, cash equivalents and short-term investment assets maturing within one year totaled (Won)2,308 billion as of December 31, 2008, (Won)1,982 billion as of December 31, 2009 and (Won)1,359 billion

 

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as of December 31, 2010. Under Korean GAAP, bank deposits and all highly liquid temporary cash instruments within maturities of three months are considered as cash equivalents. Short-term investment assets primarily consist of time and trust deposits with maturities between four to twelve months and short-term loans and current portion of securities such as beneficiary certificates and available-for-sale securities.

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

 

     As of December 31,  
     2008      2009      2010  
     (In billions of Won)  

Trade accounts payable

   (Won) 834       (Won) 1,485       (Won) 1,531   

Short-term borrowings

     274         368         469   

Current portion of bonds and long-term borrowings, net

     1,440         1,690         2,435   

Other accounts payable

     1,476         2,439         1,620   

Accrued expenses

     528         483         554   

As of December 31, 2010, we entered into various commitments with financial institutions totaling (Won)2,722 billion and US$101 million. See Note 18 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. As of December 31, 2010, (Won)563 billion and US$19 million 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.

Capital Expenditures

We used cash of (Won)3,362 billion in 2008, (Won)2,774 billion in 2009 and (Won)3,239 billion in 2010 for the acquisition of property and equipment, primarily construction-in-progress.

Our current capital expenditure plan, on a non-consolidated basis, calls for the expenditure of approximately (Won)3,200 billion in 2011, which may be adjusted depending on market conditions and our results of operations. The principal components of our capital investment plans are:

 

   

approximately (Won)476 billion in general expansion and modernization of our network infrastructure;

 

   

approximately (Won)1,026 billion in capital investments for IMT-2000 (W-CDMA) service;

 

   

approximately (Won)100 billion in capital investments for WiBro service;

 

   

approximately (Won)186 billion in capital investments for IP-TV service; and

 

   

approximately (Won)127 billion in capital investments for development of services over Internet protocol.

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 4.7% in 2008, 2.8% in 2009 and 2.9% in 2010. 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.”

 

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Recent Accounting Pronouncements in Korean GAAP

We did not adopt any significant Korean accounting standards issued or revised in 2010.

U.S. GAAP Reconciliation

In 2008, we recorded net income of (Won)573 billion under U.S. GAAP compared to net income of (Won)513 billion under Korean GAAP, primarily because of difference in the treatment of reversal of goodwill amortization and depreciation. In 2009, we recorded net income of (Won)840 billion under U.S. GAAP compared to net income of (Won)610 billion under Korean GAAP, primarily because of difference in the treatment of service installation fees, reversal of goodwill amortization and depreciation. In 2010, we recorded net income of (Won)1,196 billion under U.S. GAAP compared to net income of (Won)1,193 billion under Korean GAAP. Total equity under U.S. GAAP is lower than under Korean GAAP by (Won)478 billion as of December 31, 2008, (Won)211 billion as of December 31, 2009 and (Won)396 billion as of December 31, 2010.

For further discussion of the principal differences between Korean GAAP and U.S. GAAP as they relate to us, see Note 38 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements in U.S. GAAP

In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued enhanced guidance for using fair value to measure assets and liabilities by establishing a common definition of fair value, providing a framework for measuring fair value under GAAP, and expanding the disclosure requirements about fair value measurements. In February 2008, the FASB deferred the adoption of such guidance for one year for nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a non-recurring basis. We adopted the fair value guidance for nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities on January 1, 2009 with no material impact to our consolidated financial statements. In April 2009, the FASB issued additional guidance on fair value, which provided: (a) additional application guidance for estimating fair value when the volume and activity for the asset or liability have greatly decreased and (b) indicators for identifying transactions that are not considered orderly. The additional guidance was effective for interim periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009. We adopted the provisions in 2009 with no material impact to our consolidated financial statements.

In December 2007, the FASB issued an amended accounting guidance on business combinations. The guidance revises the method of accounting for a number of aspects of business combinations including acquisition costs, contingencies (including contingent assets, contingent liabilities and contingent purchase price) and post-acquisition exit activities of acquired businesses. We adopted the guidance in 2009 with no material impact to our consolidated financial statements.

In December 2007, the FASB issued new accounting guidance on noncontrolling interests in consolidated financial statements. The new accounting guidance requires that a noncontrolling interest in the equity of a subsidiary be accounted for and reported as equity, provides revised guidance on the treatment of net income and losses attributable to the noncontrolling interest and changes in ownership interests in a subsidiary and requires additional disclosures that identify and distinguish between the interests of the controlling and noncontrolling owners. We retrospectively adopted the presentation and disclosure requirements of the new guidance. The adoption of the new guidance did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

In March 2008, the FASB issued enhanced guidance for disclosures about derivative instruments and hedging activities by expanding the disclosure requirements regarding: (1) how and

 

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why an entity uses derivative instruments; (2) how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for; and (3) how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. In addition, this guidance requires qualitative disclosures about objectives and strategies for using derivatives described in the context of an entity’s risk exposures, quantitative disclosures about the location and fair value of derivative instruments and associated gains and losses, and disclosures about credit-risk-related contingent features in derivative instruments. We adopted the new guidance in 2009 with no material impact to our consolidated financial statements.

In April 2008, the FASB amended the factors that we should consider when developing renewal or extension assumptions used in the determination of useful lives of intangible assets. These assumptions should be consistent with the expected cash flow method used to measure the fair value of intangible assets. The amended guidance was applicable prospectively to intangible assets acquired after January 1, 2009 with no material impact to our consolidated financial statements.

In November 2008, the FASB ratified guidance approved by the Emerging Issues Task Force addressing how the business combination and noncontrolling interest guidance issued by the FASB might impact the accounting for equity method investments. The guidance was effective prospectively for new investments acquired in fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2008. We adopted the guidance in 2009 with no material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In July 2009, the FASB issued the FASB Accounting Standard Codification (“Codification” or “ASC”), which became the single source of authoritative U.S. GAAP. Following the Codification, the FASB will not issue any new standard in the form of Statements, FASB Staff Positions or Emerging Issues Task Force Abstracts. Instead, it will issue Accounting Standards Updates (“ASU”), which will serve to update the Codification, provide background information about the guidance and provide the basis for conclusions on the changes to the Codification. We adopted the Codification, as required, for annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. As a result, references to accounting literature contained in our financial disclosures have been updated to reflect the new ASC structure.

In June 2009, the FASB amended the consolidation rules related to Variable Interest Entities (“VIEs”). The new rules expand the primary beneficiary analysis to incorporate a qualitative review of which entity controls and directs the activities of the VIE. The amendments also modify the rules regarding the frequency of ongoing reassessments of whether a company is the primary beneficiary. Under the revised guidance, we are required to perform ongoing reassessments as opposed to only when certain triggering events occur, as was previously required. We adopted the new guidance in 2010 with no material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In October 2009, the FASB issued ASU No. 2009-13, “Multiple-Deliverable Revenue Arrangements” (“ASU No. 2009-13”). The update addresses how revenues should be allocated among all products and services included in sales arrangements. It establishes a selling price hierarchy for determining the selling price of each product or service, with vendor-specific objective evidence at the highest level, third-party evidence of selling price at the intermediate level, and the best estimate of the selling price at the lowest level. It replaces “fair value” with “selling price” in revenue allocation guidance, eliminates the residual method as an acceptable allocation method and requires the use of the relative selling price method as the basis for allocation. It also significantly expands the disclosure requirements for such arrangements, including, potentially, certain qualitative disclosures. ASU No. 2009-13 will be effective prospectively for sales entered into or materially modified in fiscal years beginning on or after June 15, 2010. The FASB permits early adoption of ASU No. 2009-13, applied retrospectively, to the beginning of the year of adoption. We adopted ASU No. 2009-13 in 2010 with no material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

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In October 2009, the FASB issued ASU No. 2009-14, “Certain Revenue Arrangements That Include Software Elements” (“ASU No. 2009-14”). The update clarifies the guidance for allocating and measuring revenue, including how to identify software that is out of the scope. The update also amends accounting and reporting guidance for revenue arrangements involving both tangible products and software that is “more than incidental to the tangible product as a whole.” Such types of software and hardware will be outside of the scope of software revenue guidance, and the hardware components will also be outside of the scope of software revenue guidance and may result in more revenue recognized at the time of the hardware sale. Additional disclosures will discuss allocation of revenue to products and services in sales arrangements and the significant judgments applied in the revenue allocation method, including impacts on the timing and amount of revenue recognition. ASU 2009-14 will be effective prospectively for revenue arrangements entered into or materially modified in fiscal years beginning on or after June 15, 2010. ASU No. 2009-14 has the same effective date, including early adoption provisions, as ASU No. 2009-13. We must adopt ASU No. 2009-14 and ASU No. 2009-13 at the same time. We adopted ASU No. 2009-14 in 2010 with no material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In December 2009, the FASB issued ASU No. 2009-16, “Transfers and Servicing” (“ASU No. 2009-16”). This update removes the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity (“QSPE”) and creates more stringent conditions for reporting a transfer of a portion of financial asset as sale. To determine if a transfer is to be accounted for as sale, the transferor must assess whether it and all of the entities included in its consolidated financial statements have surrendered control of the assets. This update became effective on January 1, 2010, with adoption applied prospectively for transfers that occur on and after the effective date. The elimination of the QSPE concept required an entity to retrospectively assess all current off-balance sheet QSPE structures for consolidation under ASC Topic 810, “Consolidation,” and record a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings for any consolidation change. Retrospective application of ASU No. 2009-16, particularly the QSPE removal, was assessed as part of the analysis required from ASU No. 2009-17, “Improvements to Financial Reporting by Enterprises Involved with Variable Interest Entities.”

In December 2009, the FASB issued ASU No. 2009-17. This update addressed the primary beneficiary assessment criteria for determining whether an entity is required to consolidate a VIE. This update requires an entity to determine whether it is the primary beneficiary by performing a qualitative assessment, rather than using the quantitative-based model required under the previous accounting guidance. The qualitative assessment consists of determining whether the entity has both the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and has the right to receive benefits or obligation to absorb losses that could potentially be significant to the VIE. This update became effective on January 1, 2010. We adopted ASU No. 2009-16 and No. 2009-17 in 2010 with no material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In January 2010, the FASB amended the disclosure guidance related to fair value measurements. The amended disclosure guidance requires new fair value measurement disclosures and clarifies existing fair value measurement disclosure requirements. The amended disclosure guidance related to disclosures about purchases, sales, issuances and settlements of Level 3 instruments became effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010. The remaining amended disclosure guidance will be effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2009. We adopted this guidance in 2010 with no material impact on our financial statements.

In January 2010, the FASB issued authoritative guidance for improving disclosures about fair value measurements, which requires new and amended disclosure requirements for classes of assets and liabilities, inputs and valuation techniques and transfers between levels of fair value measurements and accounting for distributions to shareholders with components of stock and cash,

 

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which clarifies the accounting for distributions to shareholders that offer them the ability to elect to receive their entire distribution in cash or shares of equivalent value. This guidance became effective in January 2010. We adopted this guidance in 2010 with no material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In February 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-09 to amend ASC 855, Subsequent Events to address certain implementation issues. The amendments remove the requirement for an SEC filer to disclose a date in both issued and revised financial statements. Revised financial statements include financial statements revised as a result of either correction of an error or retrospective application of U.S. GAAP. Additionally, the FASB has clarified that if the financial statements have been revised, then an entity that is not an SEC filer should disclose both the date that the financial statements were issued or available to be issued and the date the revised financial statements were issued or available to be issued. The amendment is effective for interim or annual periods ending after June 15, 2010. We adopted this guidance in 2010 with no material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In July 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-20 to provide financial statement users with greater transparency about an entity’s allowance for credit losses and the credit quality of its financing receivables. This amendment is intended to provide additional information to assist financial statement users in assessing an entity’s credit risk exposures and evaluating the adequacy of its allowance for credit losses. The disclosures as of the end of a reporting period are effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending on or after December 15, 2010. The disclosures about activity that occurs during a reporting period are effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning on or after December 15, 2010. We adopted ASU 2010-20 in 2010 and disclosed the additional information related to credit risk in our consolidated financial statements.

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

In order to maintain our leadership in the converging telecommunications business environment and develop additional platforms, services and applications, we operate:

 

   

a technology strategy center;

 

   

a technology development center;

 

   

a central R&D laboratory;

 

   

a network R&D laboratory; and

 

   

an economics and management research laboratory.

As of December 31, 2010, these research centers employed a total of 512 researchers and employees. As of April 30, 2011, our researchers and employees at our research centers had 82 doctoral degrees and 249 master’s degrees. As of December 31, 2010, KT Corporation had 5,945 registered patents domestically and 456 registered patents internationally.

Under the Information and Communications Industry Promotion Act, 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 Advancement, which uses the fund to promote research and development in information technology. We make 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 research and development institutes. Including such contributions, total expenditures on research and development were (Won)283 billion in 2008, (Won)263 billion in 2009 and (Won)295 billion in 2010.

 

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

 

   

open IP-TV service platform;

 

   

smart home solutions;

 

   

location-based services and social network services;

 

   

cloud service platform;

 

   

network technologies for backbone and access network; and

 

   

future network structure and solutions.

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.”

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 non-independent directors, including the Chief Executive Officer; and

 

   

up to eight outside directors.

All of our directors are elected at the general shareholders’ meeting. If the total assets of a company listed on the KRX KOSPI Market as of the end of the preceding year exceeds (Won)2,000 billion, which is the case with us, the Commercial Code of Korea requires such company to have more than three outside directors with more than 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. If the term of office for the director ends before the close of the annual general meeting of shareholders convened with respect to the last fiscal year within such term of office and a new director is appointed, the term of office for such new director will be the remaining term of office of his or her predecessor.

 

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Under the Commercial Code of Korea, 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 non-independent director and all of our outside directors. Our Outside Director Candidate Nominating Committee nominates outside director candidates for appointment at the general shareholders’ meeting.

Upon the request of any director, a meeting of the board of directors will be assembled. The chairperson 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 chairperson is one year.

Our current directors are as follows:

 

Name

  

Position

   Director
Since
     Date of Birth      Expiration
of

Term of
Office
 

Non-Independent Directors (1)

           

Suk-Chae Lee

   Chief Executive Officer      January 2009         September 11, 1945         2012   

Sang-Hoon Lee

   President      March 2009         January 24, 1955         2012   

Hyun-Myung Pyo

   President      March 2009         October 21, 1958         2012   

Outside Directors (1)

           

E. Han Kim

  

Chairperson of the Board of Directors, Chair Professor, University of Michigan

     March 2009         May 27, 1946         2012   

Choon-Ho Lee

  

Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Korea Educational Broadcasting System

     March 2009         July 22, 1945         2012   

Jeung-Soo Huh

  

Professor, Kyungpook National University

     March 2009         June 10, 1960         2012   

Jong-Hwan Song

  

Professor, Myongji University

     March 2010         September 5, 1944         2013   

Hae-Bang Chung

  

Professor, School of Law, Konkuk University

     March 2010         September 1, 1950         2013   

Chan-Jin Lee

  

Chief Executive Officer, DreamWiz Inc.

     March 2010         October 25, 1965         2013   

Hyun Nak Lee

  

Consultant, Kyonggi Ilbo

     March 2011         November 4, 1941         2014   

Byong Won Bahk

  

Visiting Professor, School of Business, Seoul National University

     March 2011         September 24, 1952         2014   

 

 

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

Suk-Chae Lee is a non-independent director and has served as our chief executive officer since January 2009. Prior to joining us, he served as a senior advisor of Bae, Kim & Lee LLC, chief economic advisor to the President of Korea, Minister of Information and Telecommunications and Vice Minister of Finance and Economy. Mr. Lee holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Seoul National University, an M.A. degree in political economy from Boston University and a Ph.D. degree in economics from Boston University.

Sang-Hoon Lee is a non-independent director and has served as the president of the Enterprise Customer Group since March 2009. He has previously served as senior executive vice president of the Business Development Group and executive vice president of the Business Marketing Unit. Mr. Lee holds a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Seoul National University and both his master’s degree and Ph.D degree in electric engineering from University of Pennsylvania.

 

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Hyun-Myung Pyo is a non-independent director and has served as the president of the Personal Customer Group since December 2009. He has previously served as senior executive vice president of the Corporate Center and senior vice president of the WiBro Business Unit and head of the Marketing Group of KTF. Mr. Pyo holds a bachelor’s degree in electronic engineering from Korea University and both his graduate and Ph.D degrees in electronic engineering from Korea University.

E. Han Kim has served as our outside director since March 2009. He is currently a chair professor of business administration at University of Michigan and has served as outside director of POSCO and Hana Bank. Mr. Kim holds a bachelor’s degree from Rochester University, a master’s degree in business administration from Cornell University and a Ph.D. degree in finance from State University of New York-Buffalo.

Choon-Ho Lee has served as our outside director since March 2009. She is currently the chairperson of the board of directors of Korea Educational Broadcasting System. Ms. Lee has served as a director of the board of Seoul Foundation for Arts and Culture. She holds a bachelor’s degree in politics and foreign affairs from Ewha Womans University and has received both her graduate and Ph.D. degrees in education from Inha University.

Jeung-Soo Huh has served as our outside director since March 2009. He is currently a professor of material science and metallurgical engineering at Kyungpook National University and was formerly a visiting professor at Manchester University. Mr. Huh holds a bachelor’s degree in physical metallurgy from Seoul National University, a graduate degree in material engineering from Seoul National University and a Ph.D. degree in material engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Jong-Hwan Song was elected as our outside director in March 2010. He is currently a professor of North Korean studies at Myongji University. Mr. Song holds a bachelor’s degree and a graduate degree in international relations from Seoul National University and a Ph.D. degree in political science from Hanyang University.

Hae-Bang Chung was elected as our outside director in March 2010. He is currently a professor at Konkuk University School of Law. Mr. Chung holds a bachelor’s degree and a graduate degree in law from Seoul National University and a graduate degree in economics from Vanderbilt University.

Chan-Jin Lee was elected as our outside director in March 2010. He is currently the chief executive officer of DreamWiz Inc. and was formerly the chief executive officer of Hancom Inc. Mr. Lee holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Seoul National University.

Hyun-Nak Lee has served as our outside director since March 2011. He is currently a consultant at Kyonggi Ilbo and was formerly a chief executive officer of Kyonggi Ilbo and an executive director and chief editor of Donga Ilbo. Mr. Lee holds a master’s degree in economics from Seoul National University.

Byong-Won Bahk has served as our outside director since March 2011. He is currently a visiting professor at Seoul National University School of Business. He was formerly a vice minister of the Ministry of Finance and Economy, a chief executive officer and chairperson of board of directors at Woori Finance Holdings Co., Ltd. and a chairperson of board of directors at Woori Bank. Mr. Bahk holds a master’s degree in economics from Washington University.

For the purposes of the Korean Commercial Code, our Chief Executive Officer is deemed to be the “representative director” who is authorized to perform all judicial and extra-judicial acts relating to

 

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our business. Our shareholders elect the Chief Executive Officer in accordance with the provisions of the Commercial Code and our articles of incorporation. A candidate for Chief Executive Officer is nominated by a committee formed for that purpose. The Chief Executive Officer Candidate Nominating Committee consists of:

 

   

all of our outside directors; and

 

   

one non-independent director who is not a candidate.

Under our articles of incorporation, the Chief Executive Officer 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 Chief Executive Officer. In such case, the chairperson of the Chief Executive Officer 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 Chief Executive Officer 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 Chief Executive Officer has failed to achieve the management goals, it may propose to dismiss the Chief Executive Officer at a shareholders’ meeting.

Senior Management

Our executive officers consist of President, Senior Executive Vice President, Executive Vice Presidents and Senior Vice Presidents. The executive officers other than the non-independent directors are appointed by the Chief Executive Officer and may serve up to three years.

The current executive officers are as follows:

 

Name (1)

  

Title and Responsibilities

   Current
Position Held
Since
   Years
with the
Company
   Date of Birth

Ho-Ick Suk

   Vice Chairperson, Corporate Relations Group    June 2009    2    November 27, 1952

Seong-Bok Jeong

   President, Legal & Ethics Office    January 2009    2    December 7, 1954

Yu-Yeol Seo

   President, Home Customer Group    January 2010    33    September 9, 1956

Doo-Whan Choi

   President, Corporate Technology Group    December 2006    4    January 10, 1954

Sam-Soo Pyo

   President, Senior Advisor    December 2010    2    December 12, 1953

Il-Young Kim

   Senior Executive Vice President, Corporate Center    January 2010    2    September 8, 1956

Sung-Man Kim

   Senior Executive Vice President, Network Group    January 2009    28    October 3, 1956

Jung-Hee Song

   Senior Executive Vice President, System Integration Group    January 2011    0    February 18, 1958

Han-Suk Kim

   Senior Executive Vice President, Global Business Unit    January 2010    21    January 12, 1956

Hong-Jin Kim

   Senior Executive Vice President, STO Support Unit    September 2010    1    April 25, 1953

In-Sung Jeon

   Senior Executive Vice President, Group Shared Service Group    January 2010    31    October 9, 1958

Gyoo-Taek Nam

   Executive Vice President, Corporate Center Synergy Management Office    October 2010    25    February 6, 1961

Sang-Jik Lee

   Executive Vice President, Legal Affairs Center    June 2009    2    September 6, 1965

 

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Name (1)

  

Title and Responsibilities

   Current
Position Held
Since
   Years
with the
Company
   Date of Birth

Kyu-Shik Shin

   Executive Vice President, Public Customer Business Unit    January 2011    0    June 7, 1957

Sang-Hong Lee

   Executive Vice President, Technology Strategy Office    January 2010    27    August 13, 1955

Kyung-Soo Lee

   Executive Vice President, Fixed and Mobile Network Strategy Business Unit    December 2010    19    February 5, 1960

Tae-Il Park

   Executive Vice President, Network Technical Support Unit    January 2010    33    February 24, 1956

Hyun-Mi Yang

   Executive Vice President, Combined Customer Strategy Unit    December 2010    2    December 4, 1963

Young-Hee Song

   Executive Vice President, Contents and Media Business Unit    December 2010    2    February 10, 1961

Young-Hee Lee

   Executive Vice President, Group Consulting Support Office    December 2010    30    August 7, 1957

Eun-Hye Kim

   Executive Vice President, GMC Strategy Office    December 2010    0    January 6, 1971

Yeon-Hak Kim

   Executive Vice President, Value Management Office    June 2009    24    May 17, 1962

Hong-Seok Seo

   Executive Vice President, External Support Office    January 2011    0    November 20, 1960

Yong-Taek Cho

   Executive Vice President, Corporate Relations Support Office    July 2009    2    September 7, 1954

Gil-Joo Lee

   Executive Vice President, Public Relations Office    November 2006    35    September 20, 1955

Sang-Hyo Kim

   Executive Vice President, Human Resource Office    May 2010    1    April 1, 1956

Tae-Yol Yoo

   Executive Vice President, Economics & Management Research Laboratory    January 2009    27    April 4, 1960

Jeong-Tae Park

   Executive Vice President, Purchasing Strategy Office    January 2009    27    December 10, 1959

Jung Hwa

   Senior Vice President, Corporate Center Group Strategy Department    December 2010    22    August 10, 1964

Se-Hyun Oh

   Senior Vice President, Corporate Center New Business Strategy Department    January 2011    0    July 2, 1963

Dong-Hyun Han

   Senior Vice President, Corporate Center Strategic Investment Department    January 2009    3    June 26, 1967

Tae-Ki Min

   Senior Vice President, Synergy Management Office Marketing Alignment Department    December 2010    23    August 7, 1962

Sun-Cheol Gweon

   Senior Vice President, Synergy Management Office Investment Management Department    December 2010    20    March 1, 1962

Eun-Soo Park

   Senior Vice President, Ethical Management Department    January 2010    21    January 10, 1962

Hyun-Mo Gu

   Senior Vice President, Personal Customer Strategy Unit    December 2010    24    January 13, 1964

Kuk-Hyun Kang

   Senior Vice President, Personal Marketing Strategy Department    January 2010    22    September 8, 1963

Hyung-Wook Kim

   Senior Vice President, Mobile Handset Planning Department    January 2011    14    April 24, 1963

Seok-Gyoon Na

   Senior Vice President, Personal Customer Business Unit    June 2009    26    October 26, 1958

Hyun-Suk Lee

   Senior Vice President, Marketing Planning Department    January 2011    19    March 10, 1962

Myung-Bum Pyun

   Senior Vice President, Seoul Mobile Marketing Center    June 2009    14    June 19, 1960

Chang-Young Yoon

   Senior Vice President, Strategic Distribution Marketing Center    December 2010    25    February 24, 1957

Won-Sik Han

   Senior Vice President, Mobile Data Business Unit    January 2010    26    October 26, 1960

Seong-Mook Oh

   Senior Vice President, Mobile Network Unit    December 2010    25    August 20, 1960

 

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Name (1)

  

Title and Responsibilities

   Current
Position Held
Since
   Years
with the
Company
   Date of Birth

Tae-Il Kwon

   Senior Vice President, Metropolitan Mobile Network O&M Center    December 2010    26    June 19, 1960

Tae-Hyo Ahn

   Senior Vice President, Personal Fast Incubation Unit    December 2010    26    January 24, 1962

Bong-Goon Kwak

   Senior Vice President, Mobile Incubation Department    January 2010    26    March 2, 1960

Hun-Mun Lim

   Senior Vice President, Home Customer Strategy Unit    December 2010    24    November 15, 1960

Hye-Jung Park

   Senior Vice President, Home Integrative Marketing Communication Unit    December 2010    4    May 23, 1963

Yong-Hwa Park

   Senior Vice President, Home Channel Business Unit    January 2010    28    March 2, 1958

Moon-Chul Jung

   Senior Vice President, Site Reformation Center    January 2010    25    August 5, 1957

Young-Lyoul Lee

   Senior Vice President, Olleh TV Unit    December 2010    4    September 17, 1962

Yoon-Mo Jun

   Senior Vice President, Southern Seoul Marketing Center    December 2010    14    September 6, 1960

Jin-Hoon Kim

   Senior Vice President, Northern Seoul Marketing Center    December 2010    24    May 5, 1960

Jun-Soo Jung

   Senior Vice President, Southern Gyeonggi Marketing Center    December 2010    19    November 2, 1962

Jong-Hack Kang

   Senior Vice President, Busan Marketing Center    June 2009    25    April 5, 1959

Jung-Won Park

   Senior Vice President, Gyeongnam Marketing Center    January 2010    25    July 26, 1959

Doo-Soo Jung

   Senior Vice President, Incheon Marketing Center    January 2010    33    August 22, 1959

Ouk-Young Yoo

   Senior Vice President, Daegu Marketing Center    December 2010    35    December 20, 1956

Ki-Hun Yoo

   Senior Vice President, Northern Gyeonggi Marketing Center    January 2010    28    January 1, 1957

Moon-Hwan Lee

   Senior Vice President, Corporate Customer Strategy Department    January 2009    22    October 1, 1963

Yoon-Sik Jung

   Senior Vice President, Enterprise Customer Business Unit 1    December 2010    2    September 30, 1964

Kyung-Seok Park

   Senior Vice President, Enterprise Customer Business Unit 2    December 2010    25    February 10, 1958

Young-Sik Park

   Senior Vice President, Small & Medium Business Unit    December 2010    33    April 9, 1957

Dong-Hoon Han

   Senior Vice President, Service Delivery Business Unit    December 2010    30    April 9, 1959

Ki-Soong Jang

   Senior Vice President, Corporate Fast Incubation Unit    December 2010    26    October 17, 1958

Jong-Jin Chae

   Senior Vice President, Corporate Product Business Unit    December 2010    26    June 25, 1961

Ju-Ouk Uhm

   Senior Vice President, Northern Seoul Corporate Business Center    January 2010    26    March 17, 1960

Seung-Dong Gye

   Senior Vice President, Southern Seoul Corporate Business Center    December 2010    34    June 6, 1958

Hyung-Chul Park

   Senior Vice President, Southern Gyeonggi Corporate Business Center    December 2010    25    February 2, 1962

Jin-Sik Park

   Senior Vice President, Daejeon Corporate Business Center    December 2010    25    August 5, 1959

Sung-Hwan Gong

   Senior Vice President, Jeonnam Corporate Business Center    December 2010    25    December 21, 1960

Pan-Sik Shin

   Senior Vice President, Jeonbuk Corporate Business Center    July 2009    24    February 25, 1959

Gang-Geun Lee

   Senior Vice President, Gangwon Corporate Business Center    January 2010    22    June 22, 1961

 

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Name (1)

  

Title and Responsibilities

   Current
Position Held
Since
   Years
with the
Company
   Date of Birth

Dong-Myun Lee

   Senior Vice President, Technology Strategy Center    December 2010    20    October 15, 1962

Yoon-Young Park

   Senior Vice President, Technology Development Center    January 2010    19    April 18, 1962

Han-Wook Jung

   Senior Vice President, Central R&D Laboratory    January 2010    25    January 22, 1961

Sung-Chun Lee

   Senior Vice President, Fixed and Mobile Network R&D Center    December 2010    26    May 28, 1960

Hong-Bum Jun

   Senior Vice President, Smart Green Development Department    January 2010    20    October 3, 1962

Cha-Hyun Yoon

   Senior Vice President, Network Establishment Business Unit    December 2010    26    December 2, 1961

Yung-Sig Yoon

   Senior Vice President, Network O&M Business Unit    December 2010    27    November 20, 1956

Chan-Kyung Park

   Senior Vice President, Gangbuk Network O&M Center    January 2010    5    January 1, 1959

Dae-San Lee

   Senior Vice President, Gangnam Network O&M Center    December 2010    24    January 10, 1961

Tae-Geun Kim

   Senior Vice President, Central Network O&M Center    December 2010    28    March 16, 1059

Jong-Ok Lee

   Senior Vice President, Honam Network O&M Center    December 2010    28    June 3, 1960

Jong-Seog Koh

   Senior Vice President, Daegu Network O&M Center    December 2010    22    August 7, 1959

Young-Hyun Kim

   Senior Vice President, Busan Network O&M Center    January 2010    33    December 19, 1958

Sang-Cheon Shim

   Senior Vice President, Customer Service Business Unit    December 2010    25    May 19, 1960

Jung-Sik Suh

   Senior Vice President, Cloud Computing Service Business Unit    April 2010    4    August 18, 1969

Dong-Shik Yoon

   Senior Vice President, Cloud Computing Service Infrastructure Department    April 2010    23    June 9, 1963

Kyung-Kon Koh

   Senior Vice President, Internet Service Business Unit    December 2010    2    April 28, 1963

Hyun-Kyu Lee

   Senior Vice President, Combined Platform & Software Business Unit    January 2011    0    May 13, 1962

Jae Lee

   Senior Vice President, BIT Business Center    December 2010    1    March 2, 1970

Hyung-Joon Kim

   Senior Vice President, Global Planning Department    December 2010    17    November 2, 1963

Sang-Wook Kim

   Senior Vice President, Global GTM2 Department    December 2010    1    February 14, 1965

Young-Mo Kwon

   Senior Vice President, Satellite Business Department    December 2010    22    April 1, 1958

Joon-Shik Park

   Senior Vice President, STO Support Department    November 2011    1    February 16, 1967

Gwang-Suk Shin

   Senior Vice President, Value Management Department 1    December 2010    22    January 5, 1960

Sung-Jin Lee

   Senior Vice President, Financial Accounting Department    January 2009    15    December 2, 1958

Hwa-Joon Cho

   Senior Vice President, Finance Department    January 2010    17    February 24, 1957

Bum-Joon Kim

   Senior Vice President, Investor Relations Department    September 2005    6    March 25, 1965

Jae-Geun Choi

   Senior Vice President, Business Public Relations Department    January 2010    2    November 30, 1961

Hee-Soo Kim

   Senior Vice President, Economics & Management Research Laboratory    March 2011    0    October 15, 1962

Sa-Il Kwon

   Senior Vice President, Business Support Office    March 2010    34    January 30, 1957

Seong-Hoon Shim

   Senior Vice President, Secretarial Office    January 2010    23    February 25, 1964

 

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Name (1)

  

Title and Responsibilities

   Current
Position Held
Since
   Years
with the
Company
   Date of Birth

Geun-Mook Cho

   Senior Vice President, Educational Dispatch    December 2010    28    November 7, 1958

Dae-Soo Park

   Senior Vice President, Educational Dispatch    December 2010    22    October 28, 1963

Choong-Seop Lee

   Senior Vice President, Educational Dispatch    December 2010    11    June 3, 1958

Sun-Jong Heo

   Senior Vice President, R&D    November 2010    5    March 23, 1959

 

 

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

Item 6.B.  Compensation

Compensation of Directors and Executive Officers

In 2010, the total amount of salaries, bonuses (including long-term performance-based incentives for directors) and allowances paid and accrued to all directors and executive officers of KT Corporation for services in all capacities was approximately (Won)42 billion. The aggregate amount accrued by us to provide retirement benefits to such persons was (Won)6 billion in 2010. Starting in 2009, we no longer pay long-term performance-based incentives to our outside directors.

The chairperson of the Chief Executive Officer Candidate Nominating Committee enters into an employment agreement on our behalf with our Chief Executive Officer. The employment agreement sets certain management targets to be achieved by the Chief Executive Officer, including a target for the amount of “EBITDA” to be achieved in each year. EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization. Failure to achieve certain thresholds below the targets will allow the board of directors to take actions with respect to the Chief Executive Officer’s employment, including proposing to the shareholders’ meeting an early termination of his employment. In addition, the head of each of our functional departments, the president of each of our subsidiaries and the heads of each regional head office have entered into employment agreements with the Chief Executive Officer that provide for similar management targets to be achieved by each of our departments, subsidiaries and regional head offices.

Item 6.C.  Board Practices

As of December 31, 2010, none of our non-independent or outside directors maintained directors’ service contracts with us or with any of our subsidiaries providing for benefits upon termination of employment.

Corporate Governance Committee

The Corporate Governance Committee is comprised of four outside directors and one standing director, Choon-Ho Lee, E. Han Kim, Jeung-Soo Huh, Hae-Bang Chung and Hyun-Myung Pyo. The chairperson is Choon-Ho Lee. The committee is responsible for the review of matters with respect to our Corporate Governance Guidelines and our performance under such guidelines to monitor effectiveness of our corporate governance.

Outside Director Candidate Nominating Committee

The Outside Director Candidate Nominating Committee consists of one non-independent director and all of our outside directors, other than for election of an outside director resulting from the

 

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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’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.

Evaluation and Compensation Committee

The Evaluation and Compensation Committee is currently comprised of four outside directors, Jeung-Soo Huh, Choon-Ho Lee, Jong-Hwan Song and Chan-Jin Lee. The chairperson is Jeung-Soo Huh. The committee’s duties include prior review of the Chief Executive Officer’s management goals, terms and conditions proposed for inclusion in the employment contract of the Chief Executive Officer, including, but not limited to, determining whether the Chief Executive Officer has achieved the management goals, and the determination of compensation of the Chief Executive Officer and the non-independent 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 non-independent directors. The chairperson is Suk-Chae Lee. The committee’s duties include the establishment and management of branch offices, the acquisition and disposal of real estate having market value between (Won)15 billion to (Won)30 billion, making investments and providing guarantees up to (Won)30 billion, the disposal and sale of stocks of our subsidiaries, which stocks have a market value of between (Won)15 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-Party Transactions Committee

The Related-Party Transactions Committee is currently comprised of four outside directors, Jong-Hwan Song, Chan-Jin Lee, Hyun-Nak Lee and Byong Won Bahk. The chairperson is Jong-Hwan Song. 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 Commercial Code of Korea, we are required to establish an audit committee comprised of three or more outside directors comprised of at least two-thirds of the audit committee members. 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 E. Han Kim, Hae-Bang Chung, Hyun-Nak Lee and Byong Won Bahk. The chairperson is Hae-Bang Chung. Members of the committee are elected by our shareholders at the shareholders’ meeting. Our internal and external auditors report directly to the committee.

 

   

The duties of the committee include:

 

   

appointing independent auditors;

 

   

approving the appointment and recommending the dismissal of the internal auditor;

 

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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.

Item 6.D.  Employees

On a non-consolidated basis, we had 31,155 employees as of December 31, 2010, compared to 30,841 employees as of December 31, 2009 and 35,063 employees as of December 31, 2008. Prior to the merger with KT Corporation, KTF had 2,560 employees as of December 31, 2008.

The Voluntary Early Retirement Plans

We sponsor a voluntary early retirement plan where we provide additional financial incentives for our employees to retire early, as part of our efforts to improve operational efficiencies. In 2008, 1,141 employees retired under KT Corporation’s voluntary early retirement plan.

In 2009, we had a voluntary early retirement plan where we received applications from employees who had been employed by us for more than 20 years. In addition, we held a special voluntary early retirement program in the fourth quarter of 2009 where we received applications for voluntary early retirement from employees who had been employed by us for more than 15 years and provided them with additional financial incentives to retire early. In aggregate, 6,515 employees retired in 2009 under the voluntary early retirement plan and the special voluntary early retirement program.

In 2010, 123 employees retired under KT Corporation’s voluntary early retirement plan. We did not have a special voluntary early retirement program in 2010.

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.

As of December 31, 2010, about 78.6% 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 our current collective bargaining agreement expires on May 23, 2013. 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.

The Union also negotiates with us an annual agreement on wages on behalf of its members. Under the Act of the Promotion of Worker’s Participation and Cooperation, our Employee-Employer

 

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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.

Recent amendments to the Trade Union and Labor Relations Adjustment Act (“Labor Act”), which will become effective on July 1, 2011, allow multiple labor unions to be formed within one company. Therefore, additional labor unions may be formed by our employees. The amended Labor Act also requires such multiple unions to consolidate themselves into a single channel when negotiating with the company on behalf of their members and to enter into a single collective bargaining agreement with the company.

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 1.56% of our issued shares as of December 31, 2010.

In accordance with the National Pension Act of Korea, we contribute an amount equal to 4.5% of an employee’s standard monthly wages, and each employee contributes 4.5% of his or her standard monthly wages, into his or her personal pension account. Our employees, including executive officers as well as non-executive employees, are subject to a pension insurance system, under which we make monthly contributions to the pension accounts of the employees, and upon retirement, such employees are paid the pension amount due from their pension accounts. Prior to January 2011, our executive and non-executive employees were subject to a lump-sum severance payment system, under which they were entitled to receive a lump-sum severance payment upon termination of their employment, based on their length of service and salary level at the time of termination. Starting in January 2011, in accordance with the Korean Employee Retirement Income Security Act, we replaced such lump-sum severance payment system with our current pension insurance system in the form of a defined benefit plan, with a total unfunded portion of approximately (Won)350 billion as of December 31, 2010. Our employees have the option of choosing either the defined benefit plan or the defined contribution plan. Lump-sum severance amounts previously accrued prior to our adoption of the current pension insurance system continue to remain payable. We also provide a wide range of fringe benefits to our employees, including housing, housing loans, company-provided hospitals and schools, a company-sponsored pension program, an employee welfare fund, industrial disaster insurance, cultural and athletic facilities, physical education grants, meal allowances, 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

The objective of our training program is to develop information and technology specialists who are able to create value for our customers. In order to develop skills of our employees, we require 60 hours of training per year from most of our employees, using individually-tailored curriculums based on individual assessments. We also operate Cyber Academy to provide online classes to our employees, as well as offer various foreign language classes to our employees. In addition, we provide tuition and living expense reimbursements to our high potential individuals who pursue graduate programs in Korea and abroad, as well as provide financial assistance to those who pursue work-related professional licenses or participate in after-work study programs.

 

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Item 6.E.  Share Ownership

Common Stock

The persons who are currently our directors held, as a group, 35,033 common shares as of March 31, 2011, the most recent date for which this information is available. The table below shows the ownership of our common shares by directors:

 

Shareholders

   Number of Common
Shares Owned
 

Suk-Chae Lee

     21,204   

Sang-Hoon Lee

     10,316   

Hyun-Myung Pyo

     3,513   

E. Han Kim

       

Choon-Ho Lee

       

Jeung-Soo Huh

       

Jong-Hwan Song

       

Hae-Bang Chung

       

Chan-Jin Lee

       

Hyun Nak Lee

       

Byong Won Bahk

       

Stock Options

We have not granted any stock options to our current directors and executive officers.

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, 2010:

 

Shareholders

   Number of
Shares
     Percent of
Total
Shares Issued
 

National Pension Corporation

     21,557,950         8.26

NTTDoCoMo, Inc.

     14,257,813         5.46

Employee stock ownership association

     4,069,147         1.56

Directors as a group

     28,073         0.01

Public

     203,302,861         77.86

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

     17,895,964         6.85
                 

Total issued shares

     261,111,808         100.00
                 

 

 

(1) Includes shares of treasury stock owned by our treasury stock fund.

Item 7.B.  Related Party Transactions

We have issued guarantees of (Won)10 billion as of December 31, 2008, (Won)10 billion as of December 31, 2009 and (Won)38 billion as of December 31, 2010 in favor of our consolidated subsidiaries. We have also engaged in various transactions with our subsidiaries and affiliated companies. See Notes 18 and 32 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

In November 2010, we also entered into a contract with Dreamwiz Corp., whose chief executive officer is Mr. Chan Jin Lee who serves as our outside director, to obtain social network-related support services for our website www.olleh.com. The term of the service contract is for a period of five years from November 2010 to November 2015 for an estimated aggregate service fee of (Won)370 million.

 

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Item 7.C.  Interests of Experts and Counsel

Not applicable.

Item 8.  Financial Information

Item 8.A.  Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

See “Item 18—Financial Statements” and pages F-1 through F-96.

Legal Proceedings

In November 2009, 56 of our former customers began a claim against us for an aggregate (Won)130 million in damages, alleging that we improperly subscribed them to our optional flat rate plans for fixed-line services without properly obtaining their consent or giving notification. The Seoul Central District Court ruled in favor of us on all claims in May 2011, and the plaintiffs filed an appeal in June 2011.

In connection with this complaint, the Korea Communications Commission investigated our past practices regarding our subscription of customers to optional flat rate plans, and issued an administrative decision in April 2011 which imposed several corrective orders including amendments to our standard terms of use and issuance of an administrative fine of approximately (Won)10 billion. We paid such fines to the Korea Communications Commission and implemented its corrective orders.

We are a defendant in various other 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 have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

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)  

2006

     2,000                 2,000   

2007

     2,000                 2,000   

2008

     1,120                 1,120   

2009

     2,000                 2,000   

2010

     2,410                 2,410   

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.

 

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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

Except as disclosed elsewhere in this annual report, we have not experienced any significant changes since the date of our audited consolidated financial statements included in this annual report.

Item 9.  The Offer and Listing

Item 9.A.  Offer and Listing Details

Market Price Information

Common Stock

Our shares were listed on the KRX KOSPI Market on December 23, 1998. The price of the shares on the KRX KOSPI Market as of the close of trading on June 28, 2011 was (Won)39,300 per share. The table below shows the high and low closing prices and the average daily volume of trading activity on the KRX KOSPI Market for the shares.

 

     Price      Average Daily
Trading Volume
 
     High      Low     
     (In Won)      (Number of shares)  

2006

     49,350         37,600         539,707   

2007

     56,100         40,150         917,274   

2008

     52,200         29,500         1,019,430   

2009

     42,000         33,100         1,371,110   

First quarter

     42,000         35,800         1,275,616   

Second quarter

     39,000         33,100         1,710,969   

Third quarter

     41,050         36,650         1,474,130   

Fourth quarter

     40,600         39,100         1,015,789   

2010

     50,600         39,150         1,343,486   

First quarter

     50,600         39,150         1,838,430   

Second quarter

     49,350         44,650         1,353,466   

Third quarter

     45,700         41,100         1,148,613   

Fourth quarter

     49,200         43,500         1,033,436   

2011 (through June 28)

     45,500         36,350         989,721   

First quarter

     45,500         37,850         1,131,917   

January

     45,500         41,800         1,450,595   

February

     42,050         39,100         1,082,810   

March

     39,900         37,850         865,669   

Second quarter (through June 28)

     40,500         36,350         847,525   

April

     40,500         37,500         883,324   

May

     39,850         37,450         943,658   

June (through June 28)

     39,300         36,350         706,764   

 

 

Source: KRX KOSPI Market.

 

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ADSs

The outstanding ADSs, each of which represents one-half of one share of our common stock, have been traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange since May 25, 1999.

The price of the ADSs on the New York Stock Exchange as of the close of trading on June 28, 2011 was $18.86 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 January 2006.

 

     Price      Average Daily
Trading  Volume
 
     High      Low     
     (In US$)      (Number of ADSs)  

2006

     26.66         20.11         562,859   

2007

     29.22         21.51         592,205   

2008

     27.10         10.10         819,733   

2009

     17.64         11.42         639,566   

First quarter

     15.74         11.42         973,548   

Second quarter

     15.09         13.14         704,511   

Third quarter

     17.38         14.18         390,295   

Fourth quarter

     17.64         16.05         489,908   

2010

     22.62         17.12         784,905   

First quarter

     21.43         17.12         718,461   

Second quarter

     22.62         18.61         744,727   

Third quarter

     20.46         17.79         868,906   

Fourth quarter

     22.07         20.29         803,784   

2010 (through June 28)

     20.86         17.75         1,291,515   

First quarter

     20.72         18.34         1,380,642   

January

     20.72         19.66         1,554,945   

February

     20.30         19.59         1,555,063   

March

     19.77         18.34         1,084,987   

Second quarter (through June 28)

     20.86         17.75         1,200,926   

April

     20.32         19.31         837,350   

May

     20.86         18.22         1,539,710   

June (through June 28)

     18.86         17.75         1,210,370   

 

 

Source: New York Stock Exchange.

Item 9.B.  Plan of Distribution

Not applicable.

Item 9.C.  Markets

The KRX KOSPI Market

On January 27, 2005, the Korea Exchange was established pursuant to the Korea Securities and Futures Exchange Act through the consolidation of the Korea Stock Exchange, the Korea Futures Exchange, the KOSDAQ Stock Market, Inc. (the “KOSDAQ”) and the KOSDAQ Committee within the Korea Securities Dealers Association, which was in charge of the management of the KOSDAQ. There are three different markets operated by the Korea Exchange: the KRX KOSPI Market, the KRX KOSDAQ Market and the KRX Derivatives Market. The Korea Exchange has two trading floors located in Seoul, one for the KRX KOSPI Market and one for the KRX KOSDAQ Market, and one trading floor in Busan for the KRX Derivatives Market. The Korea Exchange is a limited liability company, the shares of which are held by (i) securities companies and futures companies that were formerly members of the Korea Stock Exchange or the Korea Futures Exchange, (ii) the Small Business

 

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Corporation, (iii) the Korea Securities Finance Corporation and (iv) the Korea Securities Dealers Association. Currently, the Korea Exchange is the only stock exchange in Korea and is operated by membership, having as its members most of the Korean securities companies and some Korean branches of foreign securities companies.

The KRX KOSPI Market has the power in some circumstances to suspend trading in the shares of a given company or to de-list a security. The KRX KOSPI Market 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.

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 KRX KOSPI Market publishes the Korea Composite Stock Price Index every two seconds, which is an index of all equity securities listed on the KRX KOSPI Market. The Korea Composite Stock Price Index is calculated using the aggregate value method, in which 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.

 

Year

   Opening      High      Low      Closing      Period Average  
               Dividend
Yield (1) (2)
(Percent)
     Price
Earnings
Ratio (2) (3)
 

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         2.1         12.9   

2001

     503.31         704.50         468.76         693.70         1.7         16.4   

2002

     698.00         937.61         584.04         627.55         1.6         15.2   

2003

     633.03         822.16         515.24         810.71         2.0         11.8   

2004

     821.26         936.06         719.59         895.92         2.0         13.8   

2005

     896.00         1,379.37         870.84         1,379.37         1.8         10.6   

2006

     1,383.32         1,464.70         1,203.86         1,434.46         1.6         11.1   

2007

     1,438.89         2,064.85         1,355.79         1,897.13         1.4         15.8   

2008

     1,891.45         1,888.88         938.75         1,124.47         2.6         8.9   

2009

     1,132.87         1,718.88         1,018.81         1,682.77         1.6         22.9   

2010

     1,696.14         2,051.00         1,552.79         2,051.00         1.1         17.8   

2011 (through June 28)

     2,070.08         2,228.96         1,923.92         2,062.91         1.2         16.1   

 

 

Source: The KRX KOSPI Market

 

(1) Dividend yields are based on daily figures. 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 KRX KOSPI Market. Starting in April 2000, KOSPI 200 excludes classified companies, companies which did not submit annual reports to the KRX KOSPI Market, 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 KRX KOSPI Market 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 KRX KOSPI Market 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 KRX KOSPI Market. 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 KRX KOSPI Market. See “Item 10. Additional Information—Item 10.A. Taxation—Korean Taxation.”

The number of companies listed on the KRX KOSPI Market, 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)
 

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   

 

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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)
 

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         253,843         191,421         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         646,668         467,629         3,157,662         3,117,139   

2006

     731         704,588         757,948         279,096         3,435,180         3,695,332   

2007

     746         951,887         1,014,589         363,732         5,539,588         5,904,485   

2008

     765         576,888         458,757         355,205         5,189,644         4,126,953   

2009

     770         887,316         759,949         483,902         5,783,552         4,953,367   

2010

     777         1,141,885         1,002,621         380,859         5,619,768         4,934,382   

2011 (through June 28)

     782         1,158,897         1,066,437         325,590         7,344,163         6,758,225   

 

 

Source: The KRX KOSPI Market

 

(1) Converted at the Concentration Base Rate of The Bank of Korea or the Market Average Exchange Rate as announced by 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 Services Commission of Korea and the Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets Act. The Securities and Exchange Act which regulated the securities markets in the past was replaced with the Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets Act on February 4, 2009. The new law, as did the Securities and Exchange Act, 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 KRX KOSPI Market. 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 KRX KOSPI Market or registered on the KRX KOSDAQ Market, 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.

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 Services 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

 

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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 KRX KOSPI Market nor registered on the KRX KOSDAQ Market 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 KRX KOSPI Market and this securities company places a sell order with another securities company which is a member of the KRX KOSPI Market, 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 Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets Act, the KRX KOSPI Market 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 KRX KOSPI Market breaches its obligation in connection with a buy order, the KRX KOSPI Market 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 Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets Act, 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.

Item 9.D.  Selling Shareholders

Not applicable.

 

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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, 2010, 261,111,808 Common Shares were issued, of which 17,895,964 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 Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets 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 Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets Act and the Commercial Code. We have filed a copy of our articles of incorporation as an exhibit 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 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

 

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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. 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.

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 Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets 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;

 

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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.

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 the 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 Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets 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, 2010, 1.56% 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 Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets 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 Korea Communications Commission may require corrective measures to comply with the ownership restrictions.

 

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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 shareholders 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.

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 Commercial Code of Korea, 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.

 

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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, among others, 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;

 

   

reduction of our capital stock;

 

   

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.

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 absentia 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.”

 

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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 KRX KOSPI Market 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 KRX KOSPI Market 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 KRX KOSPI Market for the one week period before the date of the adoption of the relevant board resolution. However, if we or any of the dissenting shareholders do not accept the purchase price calculated using the above method, the rejecting party may request the court to determine 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.

Under the Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets Act, we must file with the Financial Services Commission and the KRX KOSPI Market (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 Services Commission and the KRX KOSPI Market.

 

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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, pursuant to the Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets Act, we may acquire Shares only by (i) purchasing on the KRX KOSPI Market, (ii) a tender offer, or (iii) receiving Shares returned to us upon the cancellation or termination of a trust agreement with a trustee who acquired the Shares by either of the methods indicated above. 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, 2010, there were 17,895,964 treasury shares including shares held by our treasury stock fund.

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.

Item 10.C.  Material Contracts

The Merger Agreement between KT Corporation and KTF

On January 20, 2009, KTF and KT Corporation entered into a merger agreement, pursuant to which KTF merged into KT Corporation on June 1, 2009. KTF common stockholder received 0.7192335 share of KT Corporation common stock for every one share of KTF common stock that they owned. KT Corporation waived issuance of any merger consideration in respect of all of the outstanding shares of KTF common stock held by KT Corporation immediately prior to the merger.

 

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Pursuant to the merger agreement, all of the assets, liabilities, rights and obligations (including contractual rights and obligations) of KTF were comprehensively succeeded by KT Corporation. The employees of KTF became employees of KT Corporation as a result of the merger, and the obligations to pay severance payments to those employees were succeeded by KT Corporation.

Under Korean law, holders of shares of KT Corporation or KTF common stock who opposed the merger were entitled to exercise their appraisal rights to purchase their shares, which were set at (Won)38,535 for each share of KT Corporation common stock properly submitted to KT Corporation for appraisal and (Won)29,284 for each share of KTF common stock properly submitted to KTF for appraisal.

KT Corporation delivered 700,108 shares of its newly issued common stock (par value (Won)5,000) and 45,629,480 shares of its treasury shares (par value (Won)5,000) to KTF stockholders listed on the stockholder registry of KTF as of the date of the merger. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Item 5.A. Operating Result—Overview—Merger of KTF into KT Corporation.”

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 Strategy and Finance. The Financial Services Commission has also adopted, pursuant to its authority under the Korean Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets 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 Strategy and Finance 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 Strategy and Finance 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 Strategy and Finance 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

 

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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 Services Commission and the KRX KOSPI Market within five business days after reaching the 5.0% ownership interest. In addition, any change in the ownership interest subsequent to the report which equals or exceeds 1.0% of the total issued Equity Securities is required to be reported to the Financial Services Commission and the KRX KOSPI Market within five business days from the date of the change. The required information to be included in the 5.0% 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. Any person reporting the holding of 5.0% or more of the total issued Equity Securities and any person reporting the change in the ownership interest which equals or exceeds 1.0% of the total issued Equity Securities pursuant to the requirements described above must also deliver a copy of such reports to us.

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 Services 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 certificate 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 Services 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 KRX KOSPI Market or the KRX KOSDAQ Market, unless prohibited by specific laws. Foreign investors may

 

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trade shares listed on the KRX KOSPI Market or the KRX KOSDAQ Market only through the KRX KOSPI Market or the KRX KOSDAQ Market, 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;

 

   

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;

 

   

shares acquired by direct investment as defined in the Foreign Investment Promotion Law;

 

   

disposal of shares pursuant to the exercise of appraisal rights of dissenting shareholders;

 

   

disposal of shares in connection with a tender offer;

 

   

acquisition of shares by a foreign depositary in connection with the issuance of depositary receipts;

 

   

acquisition and disposal of shares through overseas stock exchange market if such shares are simultaneously listed on the KRX KOSPI Market or the KRX KOSDAQ Market and such overseas stock exchange; and

 

   

arm’s length transactions between foreigners, if all of such foreigners belong to an investment group managed by the same person.

For over-the-counter transactions of shares between foreigners outside the KRX KOSPI Market or the KRX KOSDAQ Market for shares with respect to which the limit on aggregate foreign ownership has been reached or exceeded, an investment broker licensed in Korea must act as an intermediary. Odd-lot trading of shares outside the KRX KOSPI Market or the KRX KOSDAQ Market must involve a licensed investment trader in Korea as the 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 KRX KOSPI Market or the KRX KOSDAQ Market (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 or who acquire the shares in an over-the-counter transaction or dispose of shares where such acquisition or disposal is deemed to be a foreign direct investment pursuant to the Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets Act. Upon registration, the Financial Supervisory Service will issue to the foreign investor an investment registration certificate that must be presented each time the foreign investor opens a brokerage account with a financial investment business entity. Foreigners eligible to obtain an investment registration certificate include foreign nationals who are individuals residing abroad for more than six months, foreign governments, foreign municipal authorities, foreign

 

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public institutions, corporations incorporated under foreign laws, international organizations, funds and associations as defined under the Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets Act. 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 certificates in its name in certain circumstances as described in the relevant regulations.

Upon a foreign investor’s purchase of shares through the KRX KOSPI Market or the KRX KOSDAQ Market, no separate report by the investor is required because the investment registration certificate 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 KRX KOSPI Market or the KRX KOSDAQ Market (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 KRX KOSPI Market or the KRX KOSDAQ Market 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 investment trader, the investment broker, the Korea Securities Depository or the financial 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, investment traders, investment brokers, the Korea Securities Depository, financial securities companies and internationally recognized custodians that satisfies all relevant requirements under the Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets Act and 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 the Korea Securities Depository, foreign exchange banks including domestic branches of foreign banks, investment traders, investment brokers, collective investment business entities and internationally recognized custodians satisfying the relevant requirements under the Financial Investment Services and Capital Markets Act 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.

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 Knowledge Economy. The acquisition of

 

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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 an investment broker or an investment trader. 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 investment broker or investment trader 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.

Investment brokers and investment traders are allowed to open foreign currency accounts with foreign exchange banks exclusively for accommodating foreign investors’ stock investments in Korea. Through these accounts, these investment brokers and investment traders 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 22.0% (including local income tax). 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% (including local income tax) 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 KRX KOSPI Market, and you have no permanent establishment in Korea. 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% (including local income tax) of the gross realization proceeds or, subject to the production of satisfactory evidence of the acquisition cost and the transaction costs of the ADSs, 22.0% (including local income tax) 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 KRX KOSPI Market 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% (including local income tax) 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.

 

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Most tax treaties that Korea has entered into provide exemptions for capital gains tax for capital gains from sale and purchase of shares of common stock. However, Korea’s tax treaties with Japan, Austria, Spain and a few other countries do not provide an exemption from such capital gains tax. For example, Article 13 of Korea’s tax treaty with Japan provides that if a taxpayer holding 25% or more (including those shares held by any related party of the taxpayer) of total issued shares of a company in a taxable year sells 5% or more (including those sold by any related party of the taxpayer) of total issued shares of the same company in the same taxable year, the country where the company is a resident may impose tax on such taxpayer.

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 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 KRX KOSPI Market, you will be subject to the 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 KRX KOSPI Market 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.

With respect to transfers of ADSs, a tax ruling recently issued in 2004 by the Korean tax authority appears to hold that depositary receipts (such as the ADSs) constitute share certificates subject to the securities transaction tax. In May 2007, the Seoul Administrative Court held that depositary receipts do not constitute share certificates subject to the securities transaction tax. In 2008, the case was upheld by the Seoul High Court and was further upheld by the Supreme Court. However, as the Supreme Court dismissed the tax authorities’ appeal without ruling on the substantive law issue, it is not clear if the Supreme Court’s decision for this case will serve as the Supreme Court’s precedent on this issue. Even if depositary receipts (such as the ADSs) constitute share certificates subject to the securities transaction tax under the Securities Transaction Tax Law, sale price of ADSs from a transfer of depositary receipts listed on the New York Stock Exchange, the Nasdaq National Market or other qualified foreign exchanges are exempt from 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;

 

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

 

   

a bank;

 

   

an 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;

 

   

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 shares of common stock or ADSs and are:

 

   

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 shares of common stock or ADSs.

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. U.S. holders should consult their own tax advisers regarding the treatment of any foreign currency gain or loss on any Won received by U.S. holders that are converted into U.S. dollars on a date subsequent to receipt.

 

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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, 2013 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 (the “Treaty”) has been approved for the purposes of the qualified dividend rules, and we believe we are eligible for benefits under the Treaty. Based on our audited financial statements and relevant market and shareholder data, we do not anticipate being classified as a PFIC. You should consult your own tax advisers regarding the availability of the reduced dividend tax rate in 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 that 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.

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 generally may claim a credit, up to any applicable reduced rates provided under the Treaty, 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 certain kinds of hedging transactions) for at least a 16-day period that includes the ex-dividend date. Instead of claiming a credit, you may generally elect to deduct such Korean taxes in computing your taxable income provided that you do not elect to claim a foreign tax credit for any foreign income taxes paid or accrued for the relevant tax year. Foreign tax credits will not be allowed for withholding taxes imposed in respect of certain hedged positions in securities and may not be allowed in respect of arrangements in which your expected economic profit is insubstantial. You may not be able to use the foreign tax credit associated with any Korean withholding tax imposed on a distribution of additional shares that is not subject to U.S. tax unless you can use the credit against United States tax due on other foreign-source income.

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.

 

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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 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 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.

 

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For details of the assets and liabilities recorded relating to our derivative contracts outstanding as of December 31, 2009 and 2010, see Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. We recognized a valuation gain of (Won)18 billion and a valuation loss of (Won)191 billion in 2009 and a valuation gain of (Won)40 billion and a valuation loss of (Won)48 billion in 2010.

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.

In 2009 and 2010 we entered into various currency-related derivative contracts with various financial institutions, including the following:

 

Transaction Type

  

Financial Institution

  

Description

Interest rate swap contracts

   Merrill Lynch and others    Exchange fixed interest rate payments for variable interest rate payments for a specified period

Currency swap contracts

   Merrill Lynch and others    Exchange foreign currency cash flow for local currency cash flow for a specified period

Combined interest rate currency swap contracts

   Merrill Lynch and others    Exchange foreign currency-denominated variable interest rate payments for local currency-denominated fixed interest rate payments

Currency forward contracts

   Kookmin Bank and others    Exchange a specified currency at an agreed exchange rate at a specified date

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 limited extent, interest rate swap contracts and combined interest rate and 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 several interest rate swap contracts with Merrill Lynch and others in which we exchange fixed interest rate payments with variable interest rate payments for a specified period, as well as entered into the combined interest rate and currency swap contracts described above.

 

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The following table summarizes the principal 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, 2010 which are sensitive to exchange rates and/or interest rates. The information is presented in Won, which is our reporting currency.

 

     Maturities  
     2011     2012     2013     2014     2015     Thereafter     December 31, 2010  
               Total     Fair
Value
 
     (In Won millions except rates)  

Local currency:

                

Fixed rate

     1,644,615        1,500,373        1,550,160        890,653        510,532        535,429        6,631,762        6,583,632   

Average weighted rate (1)

     5.99     5.24     5.53     5.23     5.32     5.51     5.52       

Variable rate

     101,656        60,457        6,848        4,508        1,540               175,009        170,498   

Average weighted rate (1)

     4.80     4.38     4.29     4.29     0.00            4.61       
                                                                

Sub-total

     1,746,271        1,560,830        1,557,008        895,161        512,072        535,429        6,806,771        6,754,130   
                                                                

Foreign currency:

                

Fixed rate

            227,780               683,340        455,560        341,670        1,708,350        1,723,872   

Average weighted rate (1)

            5.13            5.88     5.48     6.09     5.55       

Variable rate

     690,863        134,150        345,313                             1,170,326        1,102,093   

Average weighted rate (1)

     1.68     1.63     1.63                          1.66       
                                                                

Subtotal

     690,863        361,930        345,313        683,340        455,560        341,670        2,878,676        2,825,965   
                                                                

Total

     2,437,134        1,922,760        1,902,321        1,578,501        967,632        877,099        9,685,447        9,580,095   
                                                                

 

 

(1) Weighted average rates of the portfolio at the period end.

Item 12.  Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities

Item 12.A.  Debt Securities

Not applicable.

Item 12.B.  Warrants and Rights

Not applicable.

Item 12.C.  Other Securities

Not applicable.

 

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Item 12.D.  American Depositary Shares

Fees and Charges

Under the terms of the deposit agreement, holders of our ADSs are required to pay the following service fees to the depositary:

 

Services

  

Fees

Issuance of ADSs upon deposit of shares

   Up to $0.05 per ADS issued

Delivery of deposited shares against surrender of ADSs

   Up to $0.05 per ADS surrendered

Distribution delivery of ADSs pursuant to sale or exercise of rights

   Up to $0.02 per ADS held

Distributions of dividends

   None

Distribution of securities other than ADSs

   Up to $0.02 per ADS held

Other corporate action involving distributions to shareholders

   Up to $0.02 per ADS held

Holders of our ADSs are also responsible for paying certain fees and expenses incurred by the depositary and certain taxes and governmental charges such as:

 

   

fees for the transfer and registration of shares charged by the registrar and transfer agent for the shares in Korea (i.e., upon deposit and withdrawal of shares);

 

   

expenses incurred for converting foreign currency into U.S. dollars;

 

   

expenses for cable, telex and fax transmissions and for delivery of securities;

 

   

taxes and duties upon the transfer of securities (i.e., when shares are deposited or withdrawn from deposit); and

 

   

fees and expenses incurred in connection with the delivery or servicing of shares on deposit.

Depositary fees payable upon the issuance and surrender of ADSs are typically paid to the depositary by the brokers (on behalf of their clients) receiving the newly issued ADSs from the depositary and by the brokers (on behalf of their clients) delivering the ADSs to the depositary for surrender. The brokers in turn charge these fees to their clients. Depositary fees payable in connection with distributions of cash or securities to ADS holders and the depositary services fee are charged by the depositary to the holders of record of ADSs as of the applicable ADS record date.

The depositary fees payable for cash distributions are generally deducted from the cash being distributed. In the case of distributions other than cash (i.e., stock dividend, rights), the depositary charges the applicable fee to the ADS record date holders concurrent with the distribution. In the case of ADSs registered in the name of the investor (whether certificated or uncertificated in direct registration), the depositary sends invoices to the applicable record date ADS holders. In the case of ADSs held in brokerage and custodian accounts (via the Depository Trust Company, or DTC), the depositary generally collects its fees through the systems provided by DTC (whose nominee is the registered holder of the ADSs held in DTC) from the brokers and custodians holding ADSs in their DTC accounts. The brokers and custodians who hold their clients’ ADSs in DTC accounts in turn charge their clients’ accounts the amount of the fees paid to the depositary.

In the event of refusal to pay the depositary fees, the depositary may, under the terms of the deposit agreement, refuse to provide the requested service until payment is received or may set off the amount of the depositary fees from any distribution to be made to such holder of ADSs.

 

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The fees and charges that holders of our ADSs may be required to pay may vary over time and may be changed by us and by the depositary. Holders of our ADSs will receive prior notice of such changes.

Fees and Payments from the Depositary to Us

In 2010, we received the following payments from the depositary:

 

Reimbursement of NYSE listing fees:

   $ 142,645.00   

Reimbursement of SEC filing fees:

   $ 9,865.00   

Reimbursement of settlement infrastructure fees (including maintenance fees):

   $ 161,258.73   

Reimbursement of proxy process expenses (printing, postage and distribution):

   $ 66,045.72   

Reimbursement of legal fees:

   $ 369,631.00   

Contributions toward our investor relations efforts (including non-deal roadshows, investor conferences and investor relations agency fees):

   $ 441,720.07   

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, 2010. 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 the end of the period covered by this report. 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. Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, and under the supervision of, our principal executive, principal operating and principal financial officers, and

 

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effected by our board of directors, management and other personnel, 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.

Our 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 our assets; (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 our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

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.

Our management has completed an assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010 based on criteria in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”). Based on this assessment, management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2010.

Samil PricewaterhouseCoopers, an independent registered public accounting firm, which also audited our consolidated financial statements as of, and for the year ended December 31, 2010, as stated in their report which is included herein, has issued an attestation report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting.

Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm

The attestation report of our independent registered public accounting firm on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting is furnished 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 the year covered by this annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Item 16.  [Reserved]

Item 16A.  Audit Committee Financial Expert

At our annual shareholders’ meetings in March 2011, our shareholders elected Hyun-Nak Lee and Byong-Won Bahk as members of the Audit Committee. Our Audit Committee is comprised of E. Han Kim, Hae-Bang Chung, Hyun-Nak Lee and Byong Won Bahk. The board of directors has determined that E. Han Kim is the audit committee financial expert.

 

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Item 16B.  Code of Ethics

We have adopted a code of ethics, as defined in Item 16B. 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.com. 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 during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009 and 2010:

 

     Year Ended
December 31,
 
     2009      2010  
     (In millions)  

Audit fees

   (Won) 3,952       (Won) 3,503   

Audit-related fees

     62         70   

Tax fees

     66         96   

Other fees

     854         95   
                 

Total fees

   (Won) 4,934       (Won) 3,764   
                 

Audit fees in the above table are the aggregate fees billed by our auditors 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 established pre-approval policies and procedures to pre-approve all audit services to be provided by Samil PricewaterhouseCoopers, our independent registered public accounting firm. Our audit committee’s policy regarding the pre-approval of non-audit services to be provided to us by our independent auditors is that all such services shall be pre-approved by our audit committee. Non-audit services that are prohibited to be provided to us by our independent auditors under the rules of the SEC and applicable law may not be pre-approved. In addition, prior to the granting of any pre-approval, our audit committee must be satisfied that the performance of the services in question will not compromise the independence of our independent registered public accounting firm and does not include delegation of the audit committee’s responsibilities to the management under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

Our audit committee did not pre-approve any non-audit services under the de minimis exception of Rule 2-01 (c)(7)(i)(C) of Regulation S-X as promulgated by the SEC.

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, 2010:

 

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                 0                 0                 0   

February 1 to February 29

     0         0         0         0   

March 1 to March 31

     0         0         0         0   

April 1 to April 30

     0         0         0         0   

May 1 to May 31

     0         0         0         0   

June 1 to June 30

     0         0         0         0   

July 1 to July 31

     0         0         0         0   

August 1 to August 31

     0         0         0         0   

September 1 to September 30

     0         0         0         0   

October 1 to October 31

     0         0         0         0   

November 1 to November 30

     0         0         0         0   

December 1 to December 31

     0         0         0         0   
                                   

Total

     0         0         0         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.

Item 16F.  Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant

Not Applicable

Item 16G.  Corporate Governance

The following is a summary of the significant differences between the New York Stock Exchange’s corporate governance standards and those that we follow under Korean law.

 

NYSE Corporate Governance Standards

  

KT Corporation’s Corporate Governance Practice

Director Independence

  

Independent directors must comprise a majority of the board.

  

The Commercial Code 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 Commercial Code 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 Nominating Committee composed of all of our outside directors and one non-independent director. We also maintain a Corporate Governance Committee comprised of four outside directors and one non-independent director. The committee is responsible for the review of matters with respect to our Corporate Governance Guidelines and our performance under such guidelines to monitor effectiveness of our corporate governance.

 

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NYSE Corporate Governance Standards

  

KT Corporation’s Corporate Governance Practice

Compensation Committee

  
Listed companies must have a compensation committee composed entirely of independent directors.    We maintain an Evaluation and Compensation Committee composed of four 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 their 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 non-independent 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.

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.com.

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 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.com

 

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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-3   

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as of December 31, 2009 and 2010

     F-4   

Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010

     F-7   

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity

     F-8   

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010

     F-12   

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

     F-15  

Item 19.  Exhibits

 

1    Articles of Incorporation of KT Corporation (English translation)
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)
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)
2.4*    Letter from Citibank, N.A., as depositary, to the Registrant relating to the establishment of a direct registration system for ADSs and the issuance of uncertified ADSs as part of the direct registration system. (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.4 of the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F filed on June 30, 2008)
4.1*    The Merger Agreement dated January 20, 2009, entered into by and between KT Corporation and KT Freetel Co., Ltd. (incorporated herein by reference to Annex I of the Registrant’s Registration Statement (Registration No. 333-156817) on Form F-4)
8.1    List of subsidiaries of KT Corporation

 

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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 Framework Act on Telecommunications (English translation)
15.2    Enforcement Decree of the Framework Act on Telecommunications (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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LOGO

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of

KT Corporation

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated statement of financial position and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in shareholders’ equity and of cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of KT Corporation and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2010 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the year then ended in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the Republic of Korea. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010, 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 these financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting in Item 15 of Form 20-F. Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements and on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our integrated 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 audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit of the financial statements included 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, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

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 38 to the consolidated financial statements.

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 (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) 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

 

Samil PricewaterhouseCoopers

LS Yongsan Tower, 191, Hangangno 2-ga, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 140-702, Korea (Yongsan P.O Box 266, 140-600) www.samil.com

Samil PricewaterhouseCoopers is the Korean network firm of PricewaterhouseCoopers International Limited (PwCIL). “PricewaterhouseCoopers” and “PwC” refer to the network of member firms of PwCIL. Each member firm is a separate legal entity and does not act as an agent of PwCIL or any other member firm.

 

F-1


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being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) 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.

/s/ Samil PricewaterhouseCoopers

Seoul Korea

June 28, 2011

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of

KT Corporation

Sungnam, Korea

We have audited the accompanying consolidated Statements of Financial Position of KT Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2009, and the related consolidated statements of income, cash flows and change in shareholders’ equity for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008. 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 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 provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such 2009 and 2008 consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of KT Corporation and subsidiaries at December 31, 2009, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the Republic of Korea.

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 38 to the consolidated financial statements.

As discussed in Note 27 to the consolidated financial statements, the accompanying 2009 and 2008 financial statements have been retrospectively adjusted for discontinued operations.

/s/ Deloitte Anjin LLC

Seoul, Korea

June 16, 2010

(June 28, 2011 as to the effects of discontinued operations discussed in Note 27)

 

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KT Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position

December 31, 2010 and 2009

 

     (in millions of Korean won)      (in thousands
of U.S dollars)
 
     2010      2009      2010  

Assets

        

Current Assets

        

Cash and cash equivalents, net (Notes 4, 19 and 31)

   (Won) 1,193,348       (Won) 1,538,122       $ 1,047,808   

Short-term investment assets (Notes 4, 7 and 19)

     166,200         443,934         145,930   

Trade accounts receivable, net (Notes 19 and 32)

     3,843,287         3,621,844         3,374,561   

Short-term loans receivable, net (Notes 6, 19 and 32)

     755,016         484,926         662,934   

Current finance lease receivables, net (Notes 11, 17 and 32)

     240,414         203,406         211,093   

Other receivables, net (Note 19)

     408,392         281,609         358,585   

Accrued revenues

     18,393         22,506         16,150   

Advance payments

     125,025         91,737         109,777   

Prepaid expenses

     145,317         119,065         127,594   

Income taxes receivable

     5,796         27,037         5,089   

Current derivative instruments assets (Note 13)

     151,243         288         132,797   

Current deferred income tax assets (Note 26)

     363,492         437,525         319,161   

Inventories, net (Notes 5 and 11)

     655,831         699,402         575,846   

Other current assets (Note 19)

     877         448         769   
                          

Total current assets

     8,072,631         7,971,849         7,088,094   
                          

Long-term financial instruments (Note 4)

     3,054         3,037         2,682   

Available-for-sale securities (Note 7)

     199,515         117,290         175,182   

Equity-method investments (Note 8)

     429,148         287,989         376,809   

Held-to-maturity securities (Note 7)

     66         65         58   

Long-term loans receivable to employees, net

     71,982         62,758         63,203   

Other investment assets

     79,426         90,231         69,739   

Property and equipment, net (Notes 9, 11, 12, 17 and 33)

     15,227,858         14,774,560         13,370,672   

Intangible assets, net (Notes 10, 33 and 36)

     1,232,866         1,279,500         1,082,506   

Long-term trade accounts and notes receivable, net (Note 32)

     800,365         402,259         702,753   

Long-term loans receivable, net (Note 6)

     415,087         414,981         364,463   

Non-current finance lease receivables, net (Notes 11, 17, and 32)

     453,848         311,795         398,497   

Leasehold rights and deposits

     321,179         353,992         282,008   

Long-term other receivables, net

     40         11,596         35   

Non-current derivative instruments assets (Note 13)

     97,166         295,058         85,316   

Non-current deferred income tax assets (Note 26)

     185,724         113,266         163,073   

Exclusive memberships

     101,574         103,522         89,186   

Other non-current assets

     21,930         26,569         19,255   
                          

Total non-current assets

     19,640,828         18,648,468         17,245,437   
                          

Total assets

   (Won) 27,713,459       (Won) 26,620,317       $ 24,333,531   
                          

 

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KT Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position (Continued)

December 31, 2010 and 2009

 

     (in millions of Korean won)      (in thousands
of U.S dollars)
 
      2010      2009      2010  

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

        

Current liabilities

        

Current portion of bond and long-term borrowings, net (Notes 14 and 19)

   (Won) 2,434,985       (Won) 1,689,546       $ 2,138,015   

Trade accounts payable (Notes 19 and 32)

     1,530,981         1,484,943         1,344,263   

Short-term borrowings

     468,710         367,505         411,546   

Other accounts payable (Notes 17, 19 and 32)

     1,620,470         2,438,674         1,422,838   

Advances received

     153,599         152,654         134,866   

Withholdings (Note 19)

     176,299         98,099         154,798   

Accrued expenses (Notes 18 and 19)

     553,583         483,366         486,068   

Income taxes payable

     287,843         12,942         252,738   

Unearned revenue

     14,665         9,251         12,876   

Deposits received (Notes 19 and 32)

     95,196         158,799         83,586   

Current portion of accrued provisions (Note 16)

     89,181         39,841         78,305   

Current derivative instruments liabilities (Note 13)

     228         5,124         200   

Current deferred income tax liabilities (Note 26)

     1,817         1         1,595   

Other current liabilities

     2,073         478         1,820   
                          

Total current liabilities

     7,429,630         6,941,223         6,523,514   
                          

Bonds payable, net (Notes 14 and 19)

     6,745,673         7,337,399         5,922,972   

Long-term borrowings, net (Notes 14 and 19)

     473,014         198,273         415,325   

Provisions for severance benefits, net (Note 15)

     360,028         337,524         316,119   

Non-current accrued provisions (Note 16)

     114,453         103,576         100,494   

Refundable deposits for telephone installation

     615,809         696,396         540,705   

Long-term deposits received

     255,807         101,924         224,609   

Non-current derivative instruments liabilities (Note 13)

     20,243         6,155         17,774   

Long-term other accounts payable, net (Notes 17 and 32)

     171,596         164,696         150,668   

Long-term trade accounts payable, net (Note 32)

     25,521         14,603         22,408   

Non-current deferred income tax liabilities (Note 26)

     2,657         1,065         2,333   

Other non-current liabilities

     3,356         50,044         2,948   
                          

Total non-current liabilities

     8,788,157         9,011,655         7,716,355   
                          

Total liabilities

   (Won) 16,217,787       (Won) 15,952,878       $ 14,239,869   
                          

Commitments and Contingencies (Note 18)

 

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KT Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position (Continued)

December 31, 2010 and 2009

 

    (in millions of Korean won)     (in thousands
of U.S dollars)
 
     2010     2009     2010  

Capital stock

     

Common stock (Notes 20 and 36)

  (Won) 1,564,499      (Won) 1,564,499      $ 1,373,693   
                       

Total capital stock

    1,564,499        1,564,499        1,373,693   
                       

Capital surplus

     

Paid-in capital in excess of par value

    1,440,258        1,440,258        1,264,604   

Other capital surplus

    9,519        8,311        8,358   
                       

Total capital surplus

    1,449,777        1,448,569        1,272,962   
                       

Capital adjustments

     

Treasury stock (Note 21)

    (955,083     (956,159     (838,601

Loss on disposal of treasury stock

    (295     (890,650     (259

Stock options (Note 22)

    875        1,500        768   

Other capital adjustments (Notes 22 and 36)

    (308,031     (320,419     (270,464
                       

Total capital adjustment

    (1,262,534     (2,165,728     (1,108,556
                       

Accumulated other comprehensive income and expense (Note 28)

     

Gain on translation of foreign operations

    12,989        5,571        11,405   

Loss on translation of foreign operations

    (39,199     (18,763     (34,418

Unrealized gain on valuation of available-for-sale securities

    7,927        5,310        6,960   

Unrealized loss on valuation of available-for-sale securities

    (801     (83     (703

Accumulated comprehensive income of equity-method investees (Note 8)

    785        438        689   

Accumulated comprehensive expense of equity-method investees (Note 8)

    (5,916     (13,736     (5,194

Gain on valuation of derivatives for cash flow hedge (Note 13)

    4,699        11,468        4,126   

Loss on valuation of derivatives for cash flow hedge (Note 13)

    (63,131     (34,747     (55,432
                       

Total accumulated other comprehensive income and expense

    (82,647     (44,542     (72,567
                       

Retained earnings (Note 23)

     

Legal reserve

    780,499        780,499        685,310   

Voluntary reserves

    4,651,362        4,758,013        4,084,083   

Unappropriated retained earnings

    3,932,870        4,035,257        3,453,218   
                       

Total retained earnings.

    9,364,731        9,573,769        8,222,611   
                       

Minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries

    461,846        290,872        405,519   
                       

Total shareholders’ equity

    11,495,672        10,667,439        10,093,662   
                       

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

  (Won) 27,713,459      (Won) 26,620,317      $ 24,333,531   
                       

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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KT Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Income

Years Ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

 

    (in millions of Korean won,
except per share amounts)
    (in thousands
of U.S dollars)
 
    2010     2009     2008     2010  

Operating revenues (Notes 24, 32 and 33)

  (Won) 21,331,313      (Won) 19,643,812      (Won) 19,587,242      $ 18,729,751   

Operating expenses (Notes 25 and 32)

    19,156,231        18,673,265        18,144,427        16,819,941   
                               

Operating income (Note 33)

    2,175,082        970,547        1,442,815        1,909,810   
                               

Non-operating income

       

Interest income

    143,165        197,367        151,291        125,705   

Foreign currency transaction gain

    23,051        42,125        66,508        20,240   

Foreign currency translation gain (Note 19)

    65,793        240,925        40,409        57,769   

Gain on valuation of equity-method investments (Note 8)

    37,597        19,672        16,061        33,012   

Gain on disposal of property and equipment

    13,653        5,531        4,368        11,988   

Reversal of accrued provisions

    17,215        4,988        4,069        15,115   

Gain on settlement of derivatives

    744        2,249        17,182        653   

Gain on valuation of derivatives (Note 13)

    39,920        17,643        650,679        35,051   

Other non-operating revenues

    181,679        276,991        99,786        159,521   
                               
    522,817        807,491        1,050,353        459,054   
                               

Non-operating expenses

       

Interest expense

    529,364        505,496        480,315        464,803   

Other bad debts expense

    9,261        46,872        22,144        8,132   

Foreign currency transaction loss

    25,968        46,171        63,054        22,801   

Foreign currency translation loss (Note 19)

    31,871        17,893        802,298        27,984   

Loss on valuation of equity-method investments (Note 8)

    11,067        33,300        27,026        9,717   

Donations

    81,096        39,320        79,544        71,206   

Loss on disposal of property and equipment

    178,963        124,689        94,290        157,137   

Loss on impairment of property and equipment

    9,297        1,236        20,676        8,163   

Loss on disposal of intangible assets

    19,620        4,247        1,653        17,227   

Loss on settlement of derivatives

    2,156        1,031        9,666        1,893   

Loss on valuation of derivatives (Note 13)

    47,721        191,268        10,936        41,901   

Other non-operating expenses

    189,742        47,240        171,390        166,601   
                               
    1,136,126        1,058,763        1,782,992        997,565   
                               

Income from continuing operations before income taxes

    1,561,773        719,275        710,176        1,371,299   

Income tax expense on continuing operations (Note 26)

    371,843        107,763        167,859        326,493   
                               

Income from continuing operations

    1,189,930        611,512        542,317        1,044,806   
                               

Income (loss) from discontinued operations (Note 27)

    2,612        (1,817     (29,027     2,293   
                               

Net income

  (Won) 1,192,542      (Won) 609,695      (Won) 513,290      $ 1,047,099   
                               

Controlling interest net income

  (Won) 1,168,005      (Won) 494,846      (Won) 449,810      $ 1,025,555   
                               

Minority interest net income

  (Won) 24,537      (Won) 114,849      (Won) 63,480      $ 21,544   
                               

Earnings per share attributable to controlling interest (Note 29)

       

Basic income per share from continuing operations (in won)

  (Won) 4,797      (Won) 2,225      (Won) 2,319      $ 4.212   

Basic net income per share (in won)

  (Won) 4,803      (Won) 2,254      (Won) 2,217      $ 4.217   

Diluted income per share from continuing operations (in won)

  (Won) 4,797      (Won) 2,199      (Won) 2,319      $ 4.212   

Diluted net income per share (in won)

  (Won) 4,802      (Won) 2,227      (Won) 2,217      $ 4.216   

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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KT Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity

Years Ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

 

    Capital
stock
    Capital
surplus
    Capital
adjustments
    Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income and
expense
    Retained
earnings
    Minority
interests
    Total  
    (in millions of Korean won)  

Balances as of January 1, 2008 (as reported)

  (Won) 1,560,998      (Won) 1,272,634      (Won) (3,815,786   (Won) 142      (Won) 9,843,775      (Won) 2,276,003      (Won) 11,137,766   

Cumulative effect of changes in accounting policies

           168,143        (168,143            1,711        2,141        3,852   
                                                       

As restated

    1,560,998        1,440,777        (3,983,929     142        9,845,486        2,278,144        11,141,618   

Dividends

                                (407,374     (1,896     (409,270
                               

Retained earnings after appropriation

                                9,438,112        2,276,248        10,732,348   

Net income for the year

                                449,810        63,480        513,290   

Acquisition of treasury stock

                  (73,807                          (73,807

Disposal of treasury stock

                  807                             807   

Retirement of treasury stock

                  73,807               (73,807              

Loss on disposal of treasury stock

           (144                                 (144

Other share-based payments

                  398                             398   

Other capital adjustments

                  986                      221        1,207   

Acquisition of subsidiaries’ stock and changes in consolidated entities

                  (944                   14,754        13,810   

Changes in the interest in the subsidiaries

                  (12,054                   (98,730     (110,784

Gain on translation of foreign operations

                         8,612               4,947        13,559   

Loss on translation of foreign operations

                         8,308               3,471        11,779   

Unrealized gain on valuation of available-for-sale securities

                         (5,831            (3,108     (8,939

Unrealized loss on valuation of available-for-sale securities

                         (4,345            (3,200     (7,545

Changes in equity-method investees with accumulated comprehensive income

                         7,603               2,351        9,954   

Changes in equity-method investees with accumulated comprehensive expense

                         988               (27     961   

Gain on valuation of derivatives for cash flow hedge

                         9,112               262        9,374   

Loss on valuation of derivatives for cash flow hedge

                         (13,710            (4,660     (18,370
                                                       

Balances as of December 31, 2008

  (Won) 1,560,998      (Won) 1,440,633      (Won) (3,994,736   (Won) 10,879      (Won) 9,814,115      (Won) 2,256,009      (Won) 11,087,898   
                                                       

 

F-8


Table of Contents

KT Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity (Continued)

Years Ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

 

    Capital
stock
    Capital
surplus
    Capital
adjustments
    Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income and
expense
    Retained
earnings
    Minority
interests
    Total  
    (in millions of Korean won)  

Balances as of January 1, 2009

  (Won) 1,560,998      (Won) 1,440,633      (Won) (3,994,736   (Won) 10,879      (Won) 9,814,115      (Won) 2,256,009      (Won) 11,087,898   

Dividends

                                (226,280     (3,080     (229,360
                               

Retained earnings after appropriation

                                9,587,835        2,252,929        10,858,538   

Issuance of common stock

    3,501                                           3,501   

Net income for the year

                                494,846        114,849        609,695   

Consideration for exchange rights

           18,442                                    18,442   

Exercise of exchange rights of exchangeable bonds

           (18,442     451,157                             432,715   

Acquisition of treasury stock

                  (528,144                          (528,144

Disposal of treasury stock

                  2,436,797                             2,436,797   

Retirement of treasury stock

                  508,912               (508,912              

Loss on disposal of treasury stock

           (375     (890,650                          (891,025

Stock options

           8,311        (7,380                          931   

Other share-based payments

                  700                             700   

Other capital adjustments

                  1,059                      (811     248   

Other capital adjustments by merger

                  (89,375                   (1,553,491     (1,642,866

Acquisition of subsidiaries’ stock and changes in consolidated entities

                  (24,105                   (268,373     (292,478

Changes in the interest in the subsidiaries

                  (29,963                   (243,849     (273,812

Gain on translation of foreign operations

                         (4,891            (3,751     (8,642

Loss on translation of foreign operations

                         (14,497            (4,159     (18,656

Unrealized gain on valuation of available-for-sale securities

                         497               (610     (113

Unrealized loss on valuation of available-for-sale securities

                         4,262               3,425        7,687   

Changes in equity-method investees with accumulated comprehensive income

                         (9,931            (273     (10,204

Changes in equity-method investees with accumulated comprehensive expense

                         (10,155            17        (10,138

Gain on valuation of derivatives for cash flow hedge

                         331               155        486   

Loss on valuation of derivatives for cash flow hedge

                         (21,037            (5,186     (26,223
                                                       

Balances as of December 31, 2009

  (Won) 1,564,499      (Won) 1,448,569      (Won) (2,165,728   (Won) (44,542   (Won) 9,573,769      (Won) 290,872      (Won) 10,667,439   
                                                       

 

F-9


Table of Contents

KT Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity (Continued)

Years Ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

 

    Capital
stock
    Capital
surplus
    Capital
adjustments
    Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income and
expense
    Retained
earnings
    Minority
interests
    Total  
    (in millions of Korean won)  

Balances as of January 1, 2010

  (Won) 1,564,499      (Won) 1,448,569      (Won) (2,165,728   (Won) (44,542   (Won) 9,573,769      (Won) 290,872      (Won) 10,667,439   

Dividends

                                (486,393     (7,708     (494,101
                               

Retained earnings after appropriations

                                9,087,376        283,164        10,173,338   

Net income for the year

                                1,168,005        24,537        1,192,542   

Appropriations of loss on disposal of treasury stock

                  890,650               (890,650              

Acquisition of treasury stock

                  (349                          (349

Disposal of treasury stock

                  (295                          (295

Stock options

           140        (183                          (43

Other share-based payments

           1,068        5,658                             6,726   

Acquisition of subsidiaries’ stock and changes in consolidated entities

                  5,879                      158,750        164,629   

Changes in the interest in the subsidiaries

                  809                      (345     464   

Other capital adjustments

                  1,025                      (872     153   

Gain on translation of foreign operations

                         7,418               (533     6,885   

Loss on translation of foreign operations

                         (20,436            (2,762     (23,198

Unrealized gain on valuation of available-for-sale securities

                         2,617               199        2,816   

Unrealized loss on valuation of available-for-sale securities

                         (718            (30     (748

Changes in equity-method investees with accumulated comprehensive income

                         347               (262     85   

Changes in equity-method investees with accumulated comprehensive expense

                         7,820                      7,820   

Gain on valuation of derivatives for cash flow hedge

                         (6,769                   (6,769

Loss on valuation of derivatives for cash flow hedge

                         (28,384                   (28,384
                                                       

Balances as of December 31, 2010

  (Won) 1,564,499      (Won) 1,449,777      (Won) (1,262,534   (Won) (82,647   (Won) 9,364,731      (Won) 461,846      (Won) 11,495,672   
                                                       

 

F-10


Table of Contents

KT Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity (Continued)

Years Ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

 

    Capital
stock
    Capital
surplus
    Capital
adjustments
    Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income and
expense
    Retained
earnings
    Minority
interests
    Total  
    (in thousands of U.S dollars)  

Balances as of January 1, 2010

  $ 1,373,693      $ 1,271,902      $ (1,901,596   $ (39,110   $ 8,406,154      $ 255,397      $ 9,366,440   

Dividends

                                (427,073     (6,768     (433,841
                               

Retained earnings after appropriations

                                7,979,081        248,629        8,932,599   

Net income for the year

                                1,025,555        21,544        1,047,099   

Appropriations of loss on disposal of treasury stock

                  782,027               (782,027              

Acquisition of treasury stock

                  (306                          (306

Disposal of treasury stock

                  (259                          (259

Stock options

           123        (161                          (38

Other share-based payments

           938        4,968                             5,906   

Acquisition of subsidiaries’ stock and changes in consolidated entities

                  5,162                      139,389        144,551   

Changes in the interest in the subsidiaries

                  710                      (303     407   

Other capital adjustments

                  900                      (766     134   

Gain on translation of foreign operations

                         6,513               (468     6,045   

Loss on translation of foreign operations

                         (17,944            (2,425     (20,369

Unrealized gain on valuation of available-for-sale securities

                         2,298               175        2,473   

Unrealized loss on valuation of available-for-sale securities

                         (630            (26     (656

Changes in equity-method investees with accumulated comprehensive income

                         305               (230     75   

Changes in equity-method investees with accumulated comprehensive expense

                         6,866                      6,866   

Gain on valuation of derivatives for cash flow hedge

                         (5,943                   (5,943

Loss on valuation of derivatives for cash flow hedge

                         (24,922                   (24,922
                                                       

Balances as of December 31, 2010

  $ 1,373,693      $ 1,272,963      $ (1,108,555   $ (72,567   $ 8,222,609      $ 405,519      $ 10,093,662   
                                                       

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

F-11


Table of Contents

KT Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Years Ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

 

     (in millions of Korean won)     (in thousands
of U.S dollars)
 
     2010     2009     2008     2010  

Cash flows from operating activities

        

Net income

   (Won) 1,192,542      (Won) 609,695      (Won) 513,290      $ 1,047,100   
                                

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities

        

Share-based payments

     6,969        1,049        1,922        6,119   

Provision for severance benefits

     248,053        1,128,370        362,342        217,801   

Depreciation

     2,895,499        2,935,448        3,264,291        2,542,365   

Amortization of intangible assets

     389,960        426,018        438,544        342,401   

Provision for doubtful accounts

     164,799        104,977        150,583        144,700   

Interest expense

     34,722        25,994        45,581        30,487   

Interest income

     (46,891     (22,126     (20,964     (41,172

Other bad debts expense

     9,261        46,872        22,355        8,132   

Loss (Gain) on foreign currency translation, net

     (33,346     (224,104     760,867        (29,279

Loss (Gain) on valuation of equity-method investments, net

     (27,037     13,628        10,965        (23,740

Gain on disposal of equity-method investments, net

     (1,318     (62,076     136        (1,157

Loss on impairment of available-for-sale securities

     2,792        10,102        3,826        2,451   

Gain on disposal of available-for-sale securities

     (257     (9,496     (3,996     (226

Loss on disposal of property and equipment, net

     165,310        119,158        88,917        145,149   

Loss on impairment of property and equipment

     9,297        1,236        20,676        8,163   

Loss on disposal of intangible assets

     19,620        4,247        1,653        17,227   

Loss on impairment of intangible assets

     3,443        7,742        17,435        3,023   

Loss on valuation of derivatives, net

     7,801        173,625        (639,744     6,850   

Others

     132,529        (8,635     21,893        116,366   
                                
     3,981,206        4,672,029        4,547,282        3,495,660   
                                

 

F-12


Table of Contents

KT Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Continued)

Years Ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

 

     (in millions of Korean won)     (in thousands
of U.S dollars)
 
     2010     2009     2008     2010  

Changes in operating assets and liabilities

        

Decrease (increase) in trade accounts and notes receivable

   (Won) 69,456      (Won) (465,422   (Won) (367,263   $ 60,985   

Short-term loans granted

     (278,531     (180,572     (71,188     (244,561

Decrease in current finance lease receivables

     13,955        5,834        78,103        12,253   

Decrease(increase) in other accounts receivable

     (90,253     (120,762     20,460        (79,246

Decrease(increase) in accrued revenue

     5,722        (1,201     (7,676     5,024   

Increase in advance payments

     (51,579     (27,294     (6,919     (45,288

Increase in prepaid expenses

     (4,677     (19,928     (44,282     (4,107

Decrease(increase) in income taxes receivable

     25,984        (25,538     (107     22,815   

Decrease(increase) in guarantee deposits

     (532     1,049        8,026        (467

Decrease(increase) in derivative instruments assets

     19,148        (30,838     554        16,813   

Decrease(increase) in other current assets

     (354     275        (173     (311

Decrease(increase) in inventories

     36,850        (274,851     (131,305     32,356   

Dividend received

     11,306        1,332        1,047        9,927   

Increase in long-term trade accounts and notes receivable

     (781,407     (387,630     (253,257     (686,107

Long-term loans granted

            (147,602     (113,229     0   

Increase in non-current finance lease receivables

     (169,991     (16,555     (299,257     (149,259

Decrease(increase) in leasehold rights and deposits

     37,133        (2,484     (3,804     32,604   

Decrease(increase) in deferred income tax assets and liabilities

     11,691        (68,054     (126,811     10,265   

Decrease(increase) in long-term other accounts receivable

     9,748        (890     (8,146     8,559   

Decrease(increase) in other non-current assets

     44,099        (8,827     (19,536     38,721   

Increase in trade accounts payable

     21,213        645,925        (262,733     18,626   

Increase(decrease) in other accounts payable

     (286,700     869,594        (160,717     (251,734

Increase(decrease) in advances received

     (11,572     52,277        31,905        (10,161

Increase(decrease) in withholdings

     76,042        (129,398     26,901        66,768   

Increase(decrease) in accrued expenses

     75,844        (42,864     44,402        66,594   

Increase(decrease) in income taxes payable

     275,554        (107,361     (152,286     241,947   

Increase in unearned revenue

     5,220        81        1,363        4,583   

Increase(decrease) in other current liabilities

     716        376        (6,782     629   

Increase in deposits received

     18,932        39,232        77,868        16,623   

Increase(decrease) in derivative instruments liabilities

     (11,490     35,423        (388     (10,089

Payment of severance benefits

     (1,249,246     (1,345,331     (220,800     (1,096,888

Decrease(increase) in deposits for severance benefits

     278,332        48,917        (148,848     244,387   

Increase(decrease) in contribution to National Pension Fund

     (193     135        122        (169

Increase(decrease) in accrued provisions

     (49,051     (11,257     18,500        (43,069

Decrease in refundable deposits for telephone installation

     (80,585     (85,129     (59,437     (70,757

Increase in long-term accounts payable

     2,902        17,494        30,794        2,548   

Increase(decrease) in long-term other payables

     105,594        (99,864     (24,833     92,716   

Increase(decrease) in other non-current liabilities

     (8,496     (1,151     8,949        (7,460
                                
     (1,929,216     (1,882,859     (2,140,783     (1,693,930
                                

Net cash provided by operating activities

     3,244,532        3,398,865        2,919,789        2,848,830   
                                

 

F-13


Table of Contents

KT Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Continued)

Years Ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

 

     (in millions of Korean won)     (in thousands
of U.S dollars)
 
     2010     2009     2008     2010  

Cash flows from investing activities

        

Decrease in short-term investment assets

     668,313        657,223        544,946        586,806   

Disposal of available-for-sale securities

     12,338        12,609        614,822        10,833   

Disposal in equity-method investments

     25,021        111,901        1,580        21,969   

Decrease in long-term financial instruments

     10,481        13        2,819        9,203   

Collection of held-to-maturity securities

     16        14,093        65        14   

Collection of long-term loans

     3        89,603        10,001        3   

Disposal of property and equipment

     27,159        69,947        56,365        23,847   

Increase in customers’ contribution to construction costs

     5,522        16,440        74,228        4,849   

Disposal of intangible assets

     4,253        1,326        17,013        3,734   

Disposal of other investment assets

     1,378        189        5,630        1,210   

Increase in short-term investment assets

     (320,100     (685,809     (343,115     (281,061

Acquisition of available-for-sale securities

     (88,981     (52,962     (714,831     (78,129

Acquisition of held-to-maturity securities

            (5     (13,988       

Acquisition of equity-method investments

     (135,539     (38,191     (123,371     (119,009

Increase in long-term financial instruments

     (9     (3,006     (11     (8

Long-term loans granted

     (50,234     (71,810     (50,421     (44,107

Acquisition of property and equipment

     (3,239,396     (2,774,426     (3,362,469     (2,844,320

Acquisition of intangible assets

     (352,033     (215,115     (189,772     (309,099

Acquisition of other investment assets

     (4,182     (3,782     (6,245     (3,672

Acquisition of subsidiaries’ assets and liabilities

                   55,655          
                                

Net cash used in investing activities

     (3,435,990     (2,871,762     (3,532,409     (3,016,937
                                

Cash flows from financing activities

        

Increase in short-term borrowings, net

     211,012        99,395        42,538        185,277   

Issuance of bonds

     1,606,224        1,421,091        2,405,577        1,410,329   

Increase in long-term borrowings

     429,082        77,539        1,374,480        376,751   

Inflows from capital transactions of consolidated entities

     61,281        4,124        7,951        53,807   

Decrease in capital lease liabilities

     (37,648     (48,723     (29,764     (33,056

Payment of current portion of bond and long-term borrowings

     (1,894,942     (1,445,857     (2,147,487     (1,663,835

Payment of dividends

     (502,185     (229,360     (409,270     (440,939

Acquisition of treasury stock

     (300     (528,143     (73,807     (263

Outflows from capital transactions of consolidated entities

     (1,504     (280,512     (118,868     (1,321
                                

Net cash used in financing activities

     (128,980     (930,446     1,051,350        (113,250
                                

Effect of changes in consolidated entities

     (21,879     59,714        48,482        (19,211
                                

Effect of exchange rate on cash

     (2,457     (9,167     18,721        (2,157
                                

Net increase(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     (344,774     (352,796     505,933        (302,725

Cash and cash equivalents (Note 31)

        

Beginning of the year

     1,538,122        1,890,918        1,384,985        1,350,533   
                                

End of the year

   (Won) 1,193,348      (Won) 1,538,122      (Won) 1,890,918      $ 1,047,808   
                                

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

KT Corporation and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

1.    General information

KT Corporation (the “Controlling Company”) commenced operations on January 1, 1982, when it spun off from the Korea Communications Commission (formerly the Korean Ministry of Information and Communications) to provide telephone services and to engage in the development of advanced communications services under the Act of Telecommunications of Korea.

On October 1, 1997, upon the announcement of the Government-Investment Enterprises Management Basic Act and the Privatization Law, the Controlling Company became a government-funded institution under the Commercial Code of Korea.

On December 23, 1998, the Controlling Company’s shares were listed on the Korea Exchange.

On May 29, 1999, the Controlling Company issued 24,282,195 additional shares and issued American Depository Shares (ADS), representing new shares and government-owned shares, at the New York Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange. On July 2, 2001, the ADS representing 55,502,161 government-shares were issued.

In 2002, the Controlling Company acquired 60,294,575 government-owned shares in accordance with the Korean government’s privatization plan. As of December 31, 2010, the Korean government did not own any share in the Controlling Company.

On June 1, 2009, the Controlling Company, as the surviving entity, merged with KT Freetel Co., Ltd. to have competitive advantages in the global trends of convergence between fixed and mobile communication.

The Controlling Company’s shares as of December 31, 2010 are owned as follows:

 

     Number of shares      Percentage of
ownership(%)
 

National Pension Service

     21,557,950         8.26

NTTDoCoMo, Inc.

     14,257,813         5.46

Employee Stock Ownership Association

     4,069,147         1.56

Others

     203,330,934         77.87
                 
     243,215,844         93.15

Treasury stock

     17,895,964         6.85
                 
     261,111,808         100.00
                 

2.    Consolidated Subsidiaries

The consolidated subsidiaries as of December 31, 2010, are as follows:

 

Subsidiary

 

Type of Business

  Total issued
shares
    Shares owned by     Percentage
of
ownership
(%)
    Financial
year end
 
      Parent     Subsidiaries     Total      

Domestic subsidiaries

             

KT Powertel Co., Ltd. (“KTP”)

  Trunk radio system business     17,329,432        7,771,418               7,771,418        44.85        12.31   

 

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Table of Contents

Subsidiary

 

Type of Business

  Total issued
shares
    Shares owned by     Percentage
of
ownership
(%)
    Financial
year end
 
      Parent     Subsidiaries     Total      

KT Networks Corporation (“KTN”)

 

Group telephone management

    2,000,000        2,000,000               2,000,000        100.00        12.31   

KT Linkus Co., Ltd. (“KTL”)

 

Public telephone maintenance

    3,135,554        2,941,668               2,941,668        93.82        12.31   

KT Submarine Co., Ltd. (“KTSC”)

 

Submarine cable construction and maintenance

    4,380,000        1,617,000               1,617,000        36.92        12.31   

KT Capital Co., Ltd. (“KT Capital”)

 

Financing service

    27,394,245        20,200,000        7,194,245        27,394,245        100.00        12.31   

KT Telecop Co., Ltd. (“KT Telecop”)

 

Security service

    6,491,353        5,765,911        84,544        5,850,455        90.13        12.31   

KT Internal Venture Fund No.2

 

Investment fund

    (*2     (*2     (*2     (*2     94.34        2.28   

Sofnics, Inc. (“Sofnics”)

 

Software development and sales

    225,000        120,000        15,000        135,000        60.00        12.31   

KT Edui Co., Ltd. (formerly, JungBoPremiumEdu Co., Ltd.) (“KT Edui”)

 

Online education business

    768,000        540,000               540,000        70.31        12.31   

KT New Business Fund No. 1

 

Investment fund

    (*2     (*2     (*2     (*2     100.00        12.31   

KT DataSystems Co., Ltd. (“KTDS”)

 

System integration and maintenance

    2,518,044        2,400,000               2,400,000        95.31        12.31   

Gyeonggi-KT Green Growth Fund

 

Venture investment of Green Growth Business

    (*2     (*2     (*2     (*2     56.45        12.31   

KTC Media Contents Fund 1

 

New technology investment fund

    (*2     (*2     (*2     (*2     81.82        4.30   

KTC Media Contents Fund 2

 

New technology investment fund

    (*2     (*2     (*2     (*2     85.71        12.31   

KT Innotz Inc. (“KT Innotz”)

 

Software development of mobile clouding computer and solution

    1,000,000        600,000               600,000        60.00        12.31   

Vanguard Private Equity Fund (*1)

 

Corporate restructuring

    (*2     (*2     (*2     (*2     28.10        12.31   

KT-LIG ACE Private Equity Fund (*1)

 

Investment fund

    (*2     (*2     (*2     (*2     9.01        12.31   

KTR Co., Ltd. (“KTR”) (*3)

 

Rental service

    4,974,608               4,974,608        4,974,608        58.00        12.31   

KT Rental Co., Ltd. (“KT Rental”) (*4)

 

Rental service

    11,410,700        6,618,046               6,618,046        58.00        12.31   

KT Estate Inc. (“KT Estate”)

 

Residential Building Development and Supply

    1,600,000        1,600,000               1,600,000        100.00        12.31   

KT Strategic Investment Fund No.1

 

Investment fund

    (*2     (*2     (*2     (*2     100.00        12.31   

KT Hitel Co., Ltd. (“KTH”)

 

Data communication

    34,500,000        22,750,000               22,750,000        65.94        12.31   

KT Commerce Inc. (“KTC”)

 

B2C, B2B service

    1,400,000        266,000        1,134,000        1,400,000        100.00        12.31   

KT Tech, Inc. (“KT Tech”)

 

PCS handset development

    5,489,382        5,146,962               5,146,962        93.76        12.31   

KT M Hows Co., Ltd. (“KTF M Hows”)

 

Mobile marketing

    1,000,000        510,000               510,000        51.00        12.31   

 

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Table of Contents

Subsidiary

 

Type of Business

  Total issued
shares
    Shares owned by     Percentage
of
ownership
(%)
    Financial
year end
 
      Parent     Subsidiaries     Total      

KT M&S Co., Ltd. (“KT M&S”)

  PCS distribution     30,000,000        30,000,000               30,000,000        100.00        12.31   

KT Music Corporation (“KT Music”)

 

Online music production and distribution

    29,766,863        14,494,258               14,494,258        48.69        12.31   

Sidus FNH Corporation (“Sidus FNH”)

  Movie production     (*2     (*2     (*2     (*2     51.00        12.31   

Sidus FNH Benex Cinema Investment Fund

 

Movie investment fund

    (*2     (*2     (*2     (*2     43.33        12.31   

Nasmedia, Inc. (“Nasmedia”)

 

Online advertisement

    3,535,029        1,767,516               1,767,516        50.00        12.31   

Overseas subsidiaries

             

Korea Telecom Japan Co., Ltd. (“KTJ”, Japan)

 

Foreign telecommunication business

    12,856        12,856               12,856        100.00        12.31   

Korea Telecom China Co., Ltd. (“KTCC”, China)

 

Foreign telecommunication business

    1,244,600,000        1,244,600,000               1,244,600,000        100.00        12.31   

Super iMax (Uzbekistan)

 

Wireless high speed internet business

    (*2     (*2     (*2     (*2     100.00        12.31   

East Telecom (Uzbekistan)

 

Fixed line telecommunication business

    (*2     (*2     (*2     (*2     85.00        12.31   

New Telephone Company, Inc. (“NTC”, Rusia)

 

Foreign telecommunication business

    6,639,492        5,309,189               5,309,189        79.96        12.31   

Helios-TV (Rusia)

 

Cable TV business

    (*2     (*2     (*2     (*2     100.00        12.31   

Novaya Svyaz

  Internet business     (*2     (*2     (*2     (*2     100.00        12.31   

KTSC Investment Management B.V. (“KTSC”, Netherlands)

 

Management of investment in Super iMax and East Telecom

    137,690        82,614               82,614        60.00        12.31   

Korea Telecom America, Inc. (“KTAI”, America)

 

Foreign telecommunication business

    6,000        6,000               6,000        100.00        12.31   

PT. KT Indonesia (“KTI”, Indonesia)

 

Foreign telecommunication business

    200,000        198,000               198,000        99.00        12.31   

 

1 Even though the Controlling Company has less than 30% ownership in this subsidiary, this subsidiary was consolidated as the Controlling Company has significant control as a general partner in accordance with the Indirect Investment Asset Management Business Act.

 

2 There are no issued shares since these are not corporations.

 

3 KTR Co., Ltd. was spun off from KT Rental Co., Ltd. on June 1, 2010.

 

4 KT Rental Co., Ltd. merged with the Rent-A-Car division that was spun off from Kumho Rent-A-Car Global Co., Ltd. on June 1, 2010.

The consolidated subsidiaries are determined in accordance with the Enforcement Decree of the Act on External Audit of Stock Companies and SKFAS No. 25, Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

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Table of Contents

Newly consolidated subsidiaries as of December 31, 2010, and subsidiaries consolidated as of December 31, 2009 but excluded as of December 31, 2010, are as follows:

 

Consolidated subsidiaries

  

Remarks

KT-LIG ACE Private Equity Fund

   New investment made in 2010

KTR Co., Ltd.

   Newly incorporated through spin-off

KT Estate Inc.

   New investment made in 2010

KT Strategic Investment Fund No.1

   New investment made in 2010

Novaya Svyaz

   Total assets exceeded (Won)10,000 million

Excluded subsidiary

  

Remarks

Doremi Media Co., Ltd

   Disposed of in 2010

A summary of financial data of the major consolidated subsidiaries as of and for the year ended December 31, 2010 is as follows:

 

(in millions of Korean won)

   Total assets      Total liabilities      Net assets      Sales      Net income (loss)  

KT Powertel Co., Ltd.

   (Won) 165,838       (Won) 68,805       (Won) 97,033       (Won) 127,491       (Won) 13,592   

KT Networks Corporation

     171,875         120,503         51,372         342,449         2,321   

KT Telecop Co., Ltd

     130,410         96,214         34,196         216,651         4,874   

KT Hitel Co., Ltd.

     223,225         37,744         185,481         149,845         (2,739

KT Tech, Inc.

     129,052         109,470         19,582         341,514         1,725   

KTR Co., Ltd.

     304,047         269,345         34,702         28,869         1,231   

KT Rental Co., Ltd.

     933,557         673,211         260,346         378,775         13,797   

KT Capital Co., Ltd.

     2,037,839         1,837,892         199,947         176,389         27,763   

KTDS

     147,950         118,184         29,766         355,542         8,144   

KT M&S Co., Ltd.

     265,446         239,158         26,288         615,972         (19,959

New Telephone Company, Inc.

     220,209         18,610         201,599         129,263         33,001   

Others

     691,247         249,396         441,851         485,318         3,342   
                                            

Total

   (Won) 5,420,695       (Won) 3,838,532       (Won) 1,582,163       (Won) 3,348,078       (Won) 87,092   
                                            

A summary of financial data of the major consolidated subsidiaries as of and for the year ended December 31, 2010, is presented prior to the elimination of intercompany transactions. The financial data of New Telephone Company, Inc. are based on the consolidated financial statements and the financial data of all others are based on non-consolidated financial statements.

3.    Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Controlling Company and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as “the Company”) in the preparation of its financial statements. These policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated.

Basis of Presentation

The Company maintains its accounting records in Korean won and prepares statutory financial statements in 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 consolidated financial statements are intended for use by those who are informed about Korean accounting principles and practices. The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been condensed, restructured and translated into English from the Korean language financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

Principles of Consolidation

The fiscal year end of the consolidated subsidiaries is the same as that of the Controlling Company, except for KT Internal Venture Fund No.2 and KTC Media Contents Fund 1. If the fiscal year end of a consolidated subsidiary is different from that of the Controlling Company, the consolidated financial statements are prepared based on the subsidiary’s reliable financial statements as of the fiscal year end of the Controlling Company. Differences in accounting policy between the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries are adjusted during consolidation.

The investment accounts of the Controlling Company and corresponding capital accounts of the subsidiaries are eliminated as of the fiscal year end of the subsidiaries closest to date when the Controlling Company acquires control in the subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and balances with consolidated subsidiaries have been eliminated during consolidation.

When the Company has control over a subsidiary, the Company records differences between the initial investment accounts and corresponding capital accounts of subsidiaries as goodwill or negative goodwill. The goodwill is amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives, which range from four to ten years. The negative goodwill relating to the expected expense or loss in the future is reversed as a gain when the related expense or loss is actually incurred, whereas the negative goodwill not relating to the certain future expense is amortized over the weighted average useful lives of depreciable non-monetary assets of an acquiree and the amounts of this negative goodwill in excess of the fair value of the total non-monetary assets of an acquiree are recorded as a gain as of the acquisition date. In addition, the differences between the additional investment in the subsidiaries and net assets of the subsidiaries attributable to subsequently acquired controlling interest and differences between the acquisition cost of the investments in the subsidiaries and changes in net assets of the subsidiaries due to certain equity transactions of the subsidiaries including capital increase with consideration are reflected in the capital surplus or capital adjustment.

When the Company gains significant influence over the equity-method investees, the excess of the acquisition cost of an investment in an investee over the Company’s share of the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired is amortized using the straight-line method over its estimated useful life, not exceeding 20 years. When acquisition cost of investments in an investee is less than the Company’s interest on the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired, the investment differences relating to the expected expense or loss in the future is reversed as a gain when the related expense or loss is actually incurred. The investment differences not relating to the certain future expense up to fair value of depreciable non-monetary assets of an investee is amortized over the weighted average useful lives of depreciable non-monetary assets of an investee and the remaining amounts of investment difference in excess of the fair value of the total non-monetary assets of an investee are recorded as a gain as of the acquisition date.

Unrealized gains or losses included in inventories and other assets as a result of intercompany transactions are eliminated based on the average gross profit ratio of the corresponding company. Unrealized gains or losses, arising from sales by the Controlling Company to the consolidated subsidiaries, are fully eliminated and charged to the equity of the Controlling Company. Unrealized gains or losses, arising from sales by the consolidated subsidiaries to the Controlling Company, or sales between consolidated subsidiaries, are fully eliminated, and charged to the equity of the Controlling Company and the minority interests, based on the percentage of ownership. Unrealized gains or losses, arising from the transactions between the Company and equity method investees are eliminated in proportion to the Company’s ownership and reflected in equity-method investments.

 

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Table of Contents

Minority interest

The Company records the equity of the consolidated subsidiaries, which is not included in the equity of the Controlling Company, as minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries. In addition, even if the minority interest has a deficit balance, the total comprehensive income is attributed to the owners of the parent and to the minority interests.

Reclassifications of Prior Year Financial Statements

Certain reclassifications have been made in 2008 and 2009 consolidated financial statements to conform to 2010 consolidated financial statement presentation. Such reclassifications did not have an effect on the shareholders’ equity and net income of the Company as of and for the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2009.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue is the gross inflow of economic benefits arising in the ordinary course of the Company’s activities and is measured as the fair value of the consideration received or receivable for the sale of goods and services in the said ordinary course of the Company’s activities. Revenue is shown as net of value-added tax, sales discounts and sales returns. The Company recognizes revenue when the amount of revenue can be reliably measured, and it is probable that future economic benefits will flow into the Company. Total consideration for combined services is allocated to each service in proportion to its fair value and the allocated amount is recognized as revenue according to revenue recognition policy for the service.

Revenue from the sale of goods is recognized when the significant risks and rewards of ownership of goods are transferred to the buyer. Revenue from the rendering of services is recognized under the percentage-of-completion method, under which revenue is generally recognized based on the costs incurred to date as a percentage of the total estimated costs to be incurred.

The Company recognizes revenues from construction contracts using the percentage-of-completion method to determine the amounts to be recognized as revenues in a given period. The stage of completion is measured using the percentage of the total contract costs incurred up to the date of statement of financial position over the total estimated costs for each contract. When the outcome of a construction contract cannot be estimated reliably, the contract revenue is recognized only to the extent of contract costs incurred that are likely to be recoverable, and contract costs incurred for the period is recognized as an expense.

Interest income is recognized using the effective interest method. Dividend income is recognized when the rights to receive such dividends and amounts thereof are determined.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand and in banks, and financial instruments with maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase. These financial instruments are readily convertible into cash without significant transaction costs and bear low risks from changes in value due to interest rate fluctuations.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

The Company provides an allowance for doubtful accounts and notes receivable. Allowances are calculated based on the estimates made through a reasonable and objective method.

 

F-20


Table of Contents

Changes in the allowances for doubtful accounts for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2010 are summarized as follows:

 

     Year Ended December 31,  
     2010     2009     2008  
     (In millions of Won)  

Balance at beginning of year

   (Won) 477,124      (Won) 488,739      (Won) 487,729   

Provision

     171,195        104,977        148,972   

Write-offs

     (133,095     (116,592     (147,962
                        

Balance at end of year

   (Won) 515,224      (Won) 477,124      (Won) 488,739   
                        

Inventories

The quantities of inventories are determined using the perpetual method and periodic inventory count, while the costs of inventories are determined using the moving-weighted average method. Goods-in-transit and land use the specific identification method. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less applicable variable selling expense. Replacement cost is used for the estimate of the net realizable value of raw materials. Market prices of merchandise and supplies are net realizable value and replacement cost, respectively. If, however, the circumstances which caused the valuation loss cease to exist, the valuation loss is reversed up to the original carrying amount before valuation. The said reversal is deducted from cost of sales.

Investments in Securities

Costs of debt securities and equity securities are determined using the specific identification method and the moving-weighted average method, respectively. Investments in equity securities or debt securities are classified into trading securities, available-for-sale securities and held-to-maturity securities, depending on the acquisition and holding purpose. Investments in equity securities of companies, over which the Company exercises a significant control or influence, are recorded using the equity method of accounting. Trading securities are classified as current assets while available-for-sale securities and held-to-maturity securities are classified as long-term investments, excluding those securities that mature or are certain to be disposed of within one year, which are then classified as current assets.

Held-to-maturity securities are measured at amortized cost while available-for-sale and trading securities are measured at fair value. However, non-marketable securities, classified as available-for-sale securities, are carried at cost when the fair values are not readily determinable.

Gains and losses related to trading securities are recognized in the income statement, while unrealized gains and losses of available-for-sale securities are recognized under other comprehensive income and expense. Realized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities are recognized in the income statement.

Equity-Method Investments

Company reflects any changes in the equity of its equity-method investments after the initial purchase date. Under the equity method, the Company records changes in its proportionate ownership in the book value of the investee in current operations, as capital adjustments or as adjustments to retained earnings, depending on the nature of the underlying change in the book value of the investee. All other changes in equity should be accounted for under other comprehensive income and expense.

 

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Table of Contents

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost, which includes acquisition cost, production cost and other costs required to prepare the asset for its intended use. It also includes the present value of the estimated cost of dismantling and removing the asset, and restoring the site after the termination of the asset’s useful life, provided it meets the criteria for recognition of provisions.

Property, plant and equipment are stated net of accumulated depreciation calculated by straight-line and declining-balance methods based on following estimated useful lives:

 

     Estimated Useful Lives

Building

   5 - 60 years

Structures

   5 - 40 years

Equipment

  

Machinery

   3 - 15 years

Other

   6 - 15 years

Underground access to cable tunnels and concrete and steel telephone poles

   20 -40 years

Vehicles

   3 - 10 years

Others

  

Tools

   3 - 8 years

Office equipment

   2 - 20 years

Expenditures incurred after the acquisition or completion of assets are capitalized if they enhance the value of the related assets over their recently appraised value or extend the useful life of the related assets. Routine maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred.

Intangible Assets

Intangible assets are stated at cost, which includes acquisition cost, production cost and other costs required to prepare the asset for its intended use. Intangible assets are stated net of accumulated amortization calculated by straight-line method based on following estimated useful lives:

 

     Estimated Useful Lives

Goodwill

   4 - 10 years

Industrial property rights

   5 - 10 years

Development Costs

   3 - 8 years

Software

   4 - 8 years

Frequency usage rights

   5.75 years or 13 years
from the date of service commencement

Other intangible assets

  

Right to use the base stations

   30, 50 years

Copyrights

   50 years

Others

   10 - 20 years

Development costs which are individually identifiable and directly related to a new technology or to new products which carry probable future benefits are capitalized as intangible assets. Amortization of development cost begins at the commencement of the commercial production of the related products or use of the related technology.

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the Controlling Company’s share in the net identifiable assets of the acquired subsidiary or associate at the date of acquisition.

Capitalization of Interest Expense

The Company capitalizes the interest it incurs on borrowings used to finance the cost of manufacturing, acquisition, and construction of inventory and property, plant, and equipment that require more than one year to complete from the initial date of manufacture, acquisition, and construction.

 

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Table of Contents

Government Grants

The Company recognizes government grants, which are to be repaid, as liabilities. The government grants and donations, which are intended to be used for the acquisition of certain assets, are deducted from the cost of the acquired assets. The government grants or donations, received to compensate for specific expenses, are offset against the related expenses. Other government grants or donations, for which the use or purpose is not specified, are recorded as gains from assets received, and are recognized in current operations. Prior to the acquisition of the assets specified, the grant or donation is recorded as deduction from the assets granted. When the related assets are acquired, the amounts are recognized as a deduction from the account under which the assets acquired are recorded and offset against the depreciation expense over the period of the asset’s useful live. After the disposal of the assets specified by the grant or donation, the remaining amounts are deducted or added to the asset’s disposal gain and loss.

Impairment of Assets

When the book value of an asset is significantly greater than its recoverable value due to obsolescence, physical damage or an abrupt decline in the market value of the asset, the said decline in value is deducted from the book value to agree with recoverable amount and is recognized as an asset impairment loss for the period. When the recoverable value subsequently exceeds the book value, the impairment amount is recognized as gain for the period to the extent that the revised book value does not exceed the book value that would have been recorded without the impairment. Reversal of impairment of goodwill is not allowed.

Derivatives

All derivative instruments are accounted for at their fair value according to the rights and obligations associated with the derivative contracts. The resulting changes in fair value of derivative instruments are recognized either under the income statement or shareholders’ equity, depending on whether the derivative instruments qualify as a cash flow hedge. Fair value hedge accounting is applied to a derivative instrument purchased with the purpose of hedging the exposure to changes in the fair value of an asset or a liability or a firm commitment that is attributable to a particular risk. The resulting changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges are recognized under the shareholders’ equity under accumulated other comprehensive income and expense.

Income Tax and Deferred Income Tax

Income tax expense includes the current income tax under the relevant income tax law and the changes in deferred tax assets or liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities represent temporary differences between financial reporting and the tax bases of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets are recognized for temporary differences which will decrease future taxable income or operating loss to the extent that it is probable that future taxable income will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilized. Deferred tax effects applicable to items in the shareholders’ equity are directly reflected in the shareholders’ equity.

Discounts on Debentures

Discounts on debentures are amortized over the term of the debentures using the effective interest rate method. Amortization of the discount is recorded as part of interest expense.

 

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Table of Contents

Accrued Severance Benefits

Employees and directors with at least 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. Accrued severance benefits represent the amount which would be payable assuming all eligible employees and directors were to terminate their employment as of the date of statement of financial position.

The domestic subsidiaries have partially funded their accrued severance benefits through severance insurance deposits with an insurance company. Deposits made by the subsidiaries are recorded as deductions from accrued severance benefits. The excess portion of deposits over accrued severance benefits is recorded as other investments.

In addition, the domestic subsidiaries deposit a certain portion of severance benefits to National Pension Service according to National Pension Law. The deposit amount is recorded as a deduction from accrued severance benefits.

Overseas subsidiaries accrue employees’ retirement benefits according to the local regulations in which they operate.

Provisions and Contingent Liabilities

When it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will occur due to a present obligation resulting from a past event, and whose amount is reasonably estimable, a corresponding amount of provision is recognized in the financial statements. However, when such outflow is dependent upon a future event, is not certain to occur, or cannot be reliably estimated, a disclosure regarding the contingent liability is made in the notes to the financial statements.

Finance Leases

i) The Company as Lessee

The Company accounts for lease transactions as either operating lease or finance lease, depending on the terms of the lease agreement. A finance lease is a lease that transfers substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to the ownership of an asset. The lower of the present value of minimum lease payments and the fair value of the lease asset is recognized as the value of the finance lease asset and liability. Annual minimum lease payments, excluding residual value, are allocated to interest expense, or for the redemption of capital lease liability using the effective interest method.

ii) The Company as Lessor

The Company accounts for lease transactions as finance lease for leases that transfer substantially all of the risks and benefits of ownership of the lease asset to the lessee. The Company recognizes the amount equivalent to the net investment in the lease asset as finance lease receivable. The Company recognizes interest income over lease term using systematic and reasonable method. Interest income is calculated for net finance lease receivable based on effective interest rate. The lease receipt is recorded separately as collection of finance lease receivable and interest income.

Operating Leases

i) The Company as Lessee

An operating lease is a lease that does not transfer substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership of an asset. The annual minimum lease payments, less guaranteed residual value, are charged to expense on a regular basis over the lease term.

 

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ii) The Company as Lessor

The Company accounts for operating leases as leases that do not transfer substantially all of the risks and benefits of ownership of the lease asset to the lessee. The lease assets are recognized as tangible or intangible assets depending on the nature of the lease assets. The annual minimum lease receipts, less guaranteed residual value, are recognized as revenue over the lease term.

Valuation of Assets and Liabilities at Present Value

Receivables and payables resulting from long-term installment payment transactions, long-term cash loans or other similar borrowings, are valued at their present values, discounted at an appropriate discount rate when the difference between the nominal value and present value is material. The present value discounts are amortized or recovered using the effective interest rate method and are recognized as interest income or expense over the term of the contract.

Translation of Assets and Liabilities Denominated in Foreign Currencies

Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into Korean won at the rates of exchange in effect at the date of statement of financial position, and the resulting translation gains and losses are recognized in current operations.

Currency Translation for Foreign Operations

Assets and liabilities of a foreign subsidiary or company subject to the equity method of accounting for investments are translated into Korean won at the rates of exchange in effect at the date of statement of financial position, while equity accounts are translated at historical rates, except for the change in retained earnings during the year (current period income or loss) which is the result of the income statement translation process, and income statement accounts at the average rate over the period. Net translation adjustments are allocated to the controlling interest and minority interest and the portions allocated to the controlling interest are accounted for as gain(loss) on translation of foreign operation included in the other comprehensive income. Net translation adjustment of equity-method investees are accounted for as comprehensive income(expensive) of equity-method investees in the other comprehensive income.

Share-based Payments

In the case of equity-settled share-based payment, the fair value of the goods or employee services received in exchange for the grant of the options is recognized as an expense and a capital adjustment. If the fair value of goods or employee services cannot be estimated reliably, the fair value is estimated based on the fair value of the equity granted.

For cash-settled share-based payment, the fair value of the obligation the Company will assume is determined by the fair value of the goods or employee services received in exchange for the grant of the options. Until the liability is settled, the Company is required to measure the fair value at date of statement of financial position and at settlement date. The change in fair value is recognized as an expense.

Share-based payment transactions with an option for the parties to choose between cash and equity settlement are accounted for based on the substance of the transaction.

 

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Joint Venture

A joint venture is a contractual agreement to establish joint control over business, assets or entities. In case of jointly controlled entities that involve the establishment of a corporation, partnership or other entity in which each participant has an interest, the Company applies the equity method of accounting. As of December 31, 2010, the Company holds 50% of ownership on Kumho Rent-A-Car Global Co., Ltd., and applies the equity method of accounting.

Accounting Estimates

The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported therein. Although these estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of current events and actions that the Company may undertake in the future, actual results may differ from those estimates.

U.S. Dollar Convenience Translation

The December 31, 2010 consolidated financial statements are expressed in Korean Won and have been translated into U.S. dollars at the rate of W1,138.9 to US$1, the market average exchange rate announced by Seoul Money Brokerage Services, Ltd. and in effect on December 31, 2010, solely for the convenience of the reader. These translations 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.

Changes in Accounting Policies

Through December 31, 2008, Korea Accounting Institute and Financial Supervisory Service have issued and revised various Korea accounting standards and the following is a summary of major changes, which are newly adopted by the Company.

 

Accounting Standards

  

Key Requirements

SKAS No. 25 “Consolidated Financial Statements”    If negative consolidated capital surplus is incurred, it is first charged to related consolidated capital surplus, and remaining amount is recorded as a consolidated capital adjustment.
Opinion on Application of Accounting Standards 06-2 “Accounting for Recognition of Deferred Tax Related to Investments on a Subsidiary”    Temporary differences related to investments in subsidiary, equity method investee or joint venture are not classified by origin but are treated as a lump-sum difference in considering whether to recognize deferred tax assets or liabilities. However, temporary differences arising from certain transactions under SKAS No. 16, such as elimination of inter-company transactions through equity method, shall be separately treated in the same way as they are recognized in the consolidated financial statements.

As a result of the adoption of the accounting standards, the Company’s net assets at the beginning of 2008 increased by (Won)3,852 million.

 

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Reconciliation of the differences in accounting policies

For the year ended December 31, 2010, the following adjustments were made on the subsidiaries’ financial statements to reconcile the differences in accounting policies between the Controlling Company and subsidiaries:

 

(in millions of Korean won)

   Net assets
before adjustment
     Amount
of adjustment
    Net assets
after adjustment
     Remarks  

KT Linkus Co., Ltd.

   (Won) 8,444       (Won) (375   (Won) 8,069         1   

KT Hitel Co., Ltd.

     185,481         (4,824     180,657      

KT New Business Fund No. 1

     22,432         (165     22,267      
                            

Total

   (Won) 216,357       (Won) (5,364   (Won) 210,993      
                            

 

1 Adjustments are made to unify the amortization period of investment difference arising from one subsidiary’s investments in another subsidiary.

4.    Restricted Deposits

Restricted deposits as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, are as follows:

 

(in millions of Korean won)

   2010      2009     

Description

Cash and cash equivalents

   (Won) 9,495       (Won) 10,241       Restricted for research and development

Short-term investment assets

     14,211         12,817       Restricted for investing in Media Contents, Pledge

Long-term investment assets

     3,054         3,035       Checking account deposits
                    

Total

   (Won) 26,760       (Won) 26,093      
                    

5.    Inventories

Inventories as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, are as follows:

 

     2010      2009  

(in millions of Korean won)

   Acquisition
cost
     Valuation
allowance
    Book
Value
     Acquisition
cost
     Valuation
allowance
    Book
Value
 

Merchandise

   (Won) 598,486       (Won) (39,715   (Won) 558,771       (Won) 625,253       (Won) (45,157   (Won) 580,096   

Supplies

     38,361         (1,540     36,821         43,996         (4,716     39,280   

Others

     60,239                60,239         80,026                80,026   
                                                   

Total

   (Won) 697,086       (Won) (41,255   (Won) 655,831       (Won) 749,275       (Won) (49,873   (Won) 699,402   
                                                   

6.    Loans Receivable

Loans granted by KT Capital and KTR as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, are summarized as follows:

Current

 

     2010     2009  

(in millions of Korean won)

   Original
amount
    Allowance for
doubtful
accounts
    Carrying
value
    Original
amount
    Allowance for
doubtful
accounts
    Carrying
Value
 

Factoring

   (Won) 35,737      (Won) (179   (Won) 35,558      (Won) 15,077      (Won) (76   (Won) 15,001   

Loans

     680,684        (8,961     671,723        448,398        (9,168     439,230   

Deferred loan origination fee

     (1,434            (1,434     (753            (753

Accounts receivable-loans

     13,383        (1,604     11,779        2,154        (94     2,060   

Loans for installment credit

     37,401        (586     36,815        28,412        (2,334     26,078   

Deferred incidental expense

     11               11        5               5   

Accounts receivable-loans for installment credit

     546               546        950        (14     936   

Financial investment for new technology

     18               18        200        (94     106   

Financial loans for new technology

                          2,500        (237     2,263   
                                                

Total

   (Won) 766,346      (Won) (11,330   (Won) 755,016      (Won) 496,943      (Won) (12,017   (Won) 484,926   
                                                

 

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Non-Current

 

     2010     2009  

(in millions of Korean won)

   Original
amount
    Allowance for
doubtful
accounts
    Carrying
value
    Original
amount
    Allowance for
doubtful
accounts
    Carrying
value
 

Factoring receivables

   (Won)      (Won)      (Won)      (Won) 2,945      (Won) (15   (Won) 2,930   

Loans

     352,816        (4,419     348,397        378,768        (7,242     371,526   

Deferred loan origination fee

     (2,139            (2,139     (3,593            (3,593

Loans for installment credit

     56,852        (931     55,921        43,833        (2,994     40,839   

Deferred incidental expense

     (89            (89     179               179   

New technology financial investment assets

     3,966        (20     3,946        1,356        (911     445   

New technology financial loans

     9,315        (264     9,051        2,932        (277     2,655   
                                                

Total

   (Won) 420,721      (Won) (5,634   (Won) 415,087      (Won) 426,420      (Won) (11,439   (Won) 414,981   
                                                

7.    Securities

Trading securities as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, are as follows:

 

(in millions of Korean won)

       2010              2009      

Beneficiary certificates

   (Won) 6,003       (Won) 21,470   

The above trading securities are in short-term investment assets in the consolidated statements of financial position and carried at fair value determined based on the trading price as of year-end published by the financial institutes.

Available-for-sale securities as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, are as follows:

Current

 

(in millions of Korean won)

       2010              2009      

Beneficiary certificates

   (Won)       (Won) 6,508   

Debt securities

     45         3   
                 

Total

   (Won) 45       (Won) 6,511   
                 

The above current available-for-sale securities are included in the short-term investment assets in the consolidated statements of financial position and carried at fair value determined based on the trading price as of fiscal year-end published by the financial institutes.

Non-current

 

(in millions of Korean won)

   2010      2009  

Marketable equity securities 1

     

Solitech Co., Ltd.

   (Won) 2,684       (Won) 2,348   

Digital Ocean Co., Ltd. (formerly GaeaSoft Corp.)

     214         487   

Krtnet Corp.

     2,536         2,626   

PT. Mobile-8 Telecom Tbk

     2,561         2,504   

Show Mirae Asset PEF 1

     3,274         2,168   

KOREA CABLE T.V CHUNG-BUK SYSTEM CO., LTD.

     1,250         221   

Daewoo Securities Green Korea Special Purpose Acquisition Company

     2,818           

Tongyang Value Ocean Special Purpose Acquisition Company

     606           

Others

     4,178         1,503   
                 

Sub-total

     20,121         11,857   
                 

 

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(in millions of Korean won)

   2010      2009  

Non-marketable equity securities 1

     

Korea Information Certificate Authority, Inc.

     1,000         2,000   

Vacom Wireless, Inc.

     641         641   

Neighbor Systems Co., Ltd.

     525         525   

Entaz Co., Ltd.

     1,000         1,000   

Smart Channel Co., Ltd.(formerly Mediapuff Plus) 2

     500         500   

SBS KT SPC

     25,000         15,000   

IBK-Auctus Green Growth PEF

     7,000         100   

MBC KT SPC

     11,000         11,000   

Korea Software Financial Cooperative

     1,220         1,220   

Daesung Private Equity Fund

     3,000         3,000   

Translink Capital Partners I, L.P. 3

     2,430         5,222   

Translink Management II Fund 4

     1,731           

Pacren Walden Ventures Parallel VI-KT, L.P. 4

     5,858         3,652   

Sovik Contents Investment Fund

     1,500         1,500   

Korea Telecommunications Operators Association

     689         689   

GE Premier 1st CR-REIT

     3,000           

Wooridle Film Investment Fund No. 1 5

     563           

Luxpia Co., Ltd.

     1,000         1,000   

Leaders PEF

     16,003         18,644   

Minigate Co., Ltd

     2,400           

Mirae Asset PEF

     5,090           

BC Card Co., Ltd

     8,712           

SEMI Materials, Co., Ltd

     2,990           

SEJONG Metal Co,. Ltd. (redeemable convertible preferred stock)

     1,100           

Smith & Mobile Inc.

     1,500           

Alti semiconductor Co., Ltd

     3,000           

Alphaasset Sinabro Private Stock Investment Trusts 7th

     2,725           

Enswers Inc.

     2,001         2,001   

On Game Network Inc.

     5,368         5,527   

Woongjin passone

     3,121           

Wiz communications Co., Ltd

     1,852         1,987   

QCP Investment Purpose Company III Inc.

     2,000         2,000   

Petra PEF 2nd

     5,000           

Petra PEF 1st

     3,905         4,000   

Hyundai-Asan Private Stock Investment Trusts

     2,819           

CJ Venture Investment 12th Global Contents Investment Fund

     1,969         2,003   

Enterprise DB Corp.

     3,013           

KDBCJKL PEF 2nd

     4,200           

KoFC-IMM Pioneer Champ 2010-17th Investment Fund

     2,010           

Nexenta Systems, Inc.

     2,260           

SoftBank Commerce Korea

     959         959   

Shinhan Venture Capital Co., Ltd.

     900         900   

Others

     17,438         15,002   
                 

Sub-total

     169,992         100,072   
                 

Debt securities

     

Government and public bonds

     20         64   

Tongyang Value Ocean Special Purpose Acquisition Company Convertible bonds

     200         200   

KIC Co., Ltd. Convertible bonds

     813           

Foosung Co., Ltd. Convertible bonds

             2,420   

KB2B. Bonds with warrant

     2,443         1,677   

Saehacoms Co., Ltd. Bonds with warrant

     783           

Probe corp. Convertible bonds

     1,000         1,000   

Sejong Metal Co,. Ltd. Bonds with warrant

     981           

Others

     3,162           
                 

Sub-total

     9,402         5,361   
                 

Total

   (Won) 199,515       (Won) 117,290   
                 

 

1

The fair value of marketable equity securities is determined using quoted market prices as of year end. Non-marketable equity securities are recognized at acquisition cost if the fair value of the securities cannot be reliably measured due to lack

 

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of basis and experience. But if the reasonably estimated recoverable amounts of non-marketable securities are less than the carrying amounts and the amount of deficiency is material then, the securities are recognized at the recoverable amounts by deducting the deficiency from the carrying amounts directly.

 

2 The securities are pledged as collateral for borrowings of investee.

 

3 During the year ended December 31, 2010, the Company recognized (Won)2,792 million of loss on impairment of investment securities as non-operating expense.

 

4 This is an investment fund which the Company participates as a limited partner. As the Company has no significant influence or control over this investee, the Company classifies this investment as an available-for-sale security.

 

5 The Company has no significant influence due to withdrawal from the fund. Accordingly, the Company reclassifies this investment as an available-for-sale security.

Held-to-maturity securities as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, are as follows:

 

(in millions of Korean won)

   2010      2009  

Current (*)

   (Won)       (Won) 17   

Non-Current

     66         65   
                 

Total

   (Won) 66       (Won) 82   
                 

The current held-to-maturity securities are included in short-term investment assets in the consolidated statements of financial position.

Maturities of debt securities as of December 31, 2010, are as follows:

 

(in millions of Korean won)

   Available-for-sale      Held-to-maturity  

Within 1 year

   (Won) 45       (Won)   

Over 1 year and within 5 years

     9,402         66   
                 

Total

   (Won) 9,447       (Won) 66   
                 

For the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, changes in valuation gain or loss on short-term available-for-sale securities are as follows:

2010

 

(in millions of Korean won)

 

2010.1.1

   Valuation Amount      Included in Earnings      2010.12.31  

(Won) 7,800

   (Won) 2,201       (Won) 1,392       (Won) 11,393   

Deferred income tax

  

     (2,342
              

Total

  

   (Won) 9,051   
              

2009

 

(in millions of Korean won)

 

2009.1.1

   Valuation Amount      Included in Earnings      2009.12.31  

(Won) (2,810)

   (Won) 5,015       (Won) 5,595       (Won) 7,800   

Deferred income tax

  

     (2,009
              

Total

  

   (Won) 5,791   
              

The amounts are not adjusted for the minority interests in consolidated subsidiaries.

 

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Equity-method Investments

Equity-method investments as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, are as follows:

 

(In millions of Korean won)

  2010     2009  

Investee

  Percentage
of
Ownership
    Acquisition
Cost
    Net asset
value
    Carrying
value
    Acquisition
Cost
    Net asset
value
    Carrying
value
 

Kumho Rent-A-Car Global Co.,
Ltd 1, 9

    50.00   (Won) 2,032      (Won) 589      (Won) 943      (Won)      (Won)      (Won)   

Korea Telecom Directory Co., Ltd.

    34.00     6,800        (2,559            6,800        (2,283       

KBSi Co., Ltd.

    32.38     4,760        6,874        6,874        4,760        5,259        5,259   

CU Industrial Development Co.,
Ltd. 8

    19.00     506        9,198        9,198        506        12,769        12,769   

KTCS Corporation 7, 8

    17.05     3,800        19,613        19,613        3,800        16,449        16,449   

KTIS Corporation 7, 8

    17.80     2,850        19,432        19,432        2,850        16,413        16,413   

Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd. 11

    32.28     195,976        29,247        29,247        195,976        12,945        12,945   

MOS Facilities Co., Ltd. 8

    15.93     5,000        101        101        5,000        114        114   

Kiwoom Investment Co., Ltd.

    20.17     9,000        7,858        7,858        9,000        7,175        7,175   

Korea Information & Technology Fund 10

    33.33     100,000        122,042        122,042        100,000        115,636        115,636   

Exdell Corporation 8

    19.00     190        273        273        190        239        239   

Information Technology Solution Bukbu Corporation 8

    18.00     180        368        368        180        376        376   

Information Technology Solution Nambu Corporation 8

    18.00     180        360        360        180        381        381   

Information Technology Solution Seobu Corporation 8

    18.00     180        434        434        180        451        451   

Information Technology Solution Busan Corporation 8

    18.00     180        322        322        180        339        339   

Information Technology Solution Jungbu Corporation 8

    18.00     180        470        470        180        458        458   

Information Technology Solution Honam Corporation 8

    18.00     180        434        434        180        414        414   

Information Technology Solution Deagu Corporation 8

    18.00     180        245        245        180        269        269   

Everyshow

    20.69     1,500        688        688        1,500        1,045        1,045   

KT-Global New Media Fund

    50.00     14,000        12,663        12,663        14,000        12,932        12,932   

Company K Movie Asset Fund No. 1

    60.00     9,000        9,362        9,362        9,000        8,806        8,806   

Boston Global Film & Contents Fund L.P.

    31.84     10,000        10,146        10,146        10,000        10,085        10,085   

OIC Co., Ltd. (formerly OIC Language Visual Limited)

    20.00     200        41        41        200        183        183   

Mongolian Telecommunications

    40.00     3,450        12,312        12,312        3,450        11,135        11,135   

Metropol Property LLC

    34.00     1,739        628        1,373        1,739        640        1,684   

WiBro Infra Co., Ltd. 2

    26.22     65,000        65,502        65,502                        

Harex Info Tech Inc. 8

    14.77     3,375        433        433        3,375        62        62   

Boston Film Fund

    38.96     7,461        1,383        1,383        8,000        4,249        4,249   

KTF-CJ Music Contents Investment Fund

    50.00     5,000        4,952        4,952        5,000        4,955        4,955   

Shinhan-KT Mobilecard Co., Ltd.

    50.00     1,000        (1            1,000        248        248   

KT-DoCoMo Mobile Investment Fund

    45.00     4,500        4,858        4,858        4,500        4,473        4,473   

MetroM Co., Ltd. 8

    19.88     80        179        179        80        147        147   

KDNET Co., Ltd. 8

    19.88     80        142        142        80        147        147   

GOODTECH Co., Ltd. 8

    19.88     80        180        180        80        153        153   

Touchtel Co., Ltd. 8

    19.90     100        183        183        100        180        180   

KNS Co.,Ltd (formerly Excelnet Co., Ltd.)

    20.62     249        259        259        100        120        120   

 

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(In millions of Korean won)

  2010     2009  

Investee

  Percentage
of
Ownership
    Acquisition
Cost
    Net asset
value
    Carrying
value
    Acquisition
Cost
    Net asset
value
    Carrying
value
 

KMTEC Co., Ltd. 8

    19.90     100        185        185        100        183        183   

MTT Co., Ltd. 8

    19.90     100        221        221        100        206        206   

Goodmorning F Co., Ltd. 8

    19.00     254        891        891        254        1,696        1,696   

BKLCD Co., Ltd.

    29.15     20,000        18,111        18,111        20,000        19,542        19,542   

TPS

    100.00     164        1,100        1,100        164        1,283        1,283   

ETN

    100.00     1        1        1        1        1        1   

Oscar ent. Co., Ltd.

    49.00     650        423        423        650        398        398   

KT-IMM Investment Fund 2

    45.45     5,000        5,076        5,076                        

Ansan U-City BTL 1, 8

    15.00     98        68        68                        

Miraeasset Good Company Investment Fund No.3 2

    33.33     3,040        3,008        3,008                        

2010 KIF IMM IT Investement Fund 2

    21.88     700        659        659                        

Anyang KDC project 2

    21.05     2,600        2,600        2,600                        

QCP New technology investment fund 20th 2

    37.74     2,000        96        96                        

Nau IB 7th fund 2

    30.77     2,000        302        302                        

Saehacoms Co., Ltd. 1

    20.00     500        393        393                        

Crzyfish, Inc. 1

    25.05     500        455        455                        

Haitai Confectionery & Foods Co., Ltd 1, 10

    30.37     53,741        35,713        52,689                        

Wooridle Film Investment Fund 3

                                1,600        1,478        1,478   

eNtoB Corp. 4

                                6,050        8,314        8,730   

WMC Co., Ltd. 5

                                80        98        98   

Sky Life Contents Fund 4

                                4,500        3,751        3,751   

Netcom 4

                                90                 

PARANGOYANGI 6

                                2,900        (542       

Music City Media Co., Ltd. 6

                                1,040        (688       

D&G Star Co., Ltd. 4

                                260        27        27   

Paramount Music Co., Ltd. 4

                                1,000        305        305   
                                                 

Total

    (Won) 550,436      (Won) 408,513      (Won) 429,148      (Won) 431,135      (Won) 283,016      (Won) 287,989   
                                                 

 

1 The Company newly acquired the shares of the investees in 2010.

 

2 These companies are newly established in 2010.

 

3 The investments in the investees were reclassified as an available-for-sale in 2010.

 

4 The Company sold all of its equity shares of these companies in 2010.

 

5 WMC Co., Ltd. merged with KNS Co., Ltd. in 2010.

 

6 These companies go bankrupt were liquidated in 2010.

 

7 The shares of the investees are listed on the Korea Exchange in 2010.

 

8 As of December 31, 2010, the Company’s ownership of the investees is less than 20%. Since the Company can exercise significant influence or control over the investees, the investments are classified as equity method investment.

 

9 This investment is the joint venture. As a result, the Company accounts for this investment using the equity method.

 

10 Although the Company’s respective ownership in these companies is more than 30%, the Company is not the largest stockholder of these companies. As a result, the Company accounts for these investments as equity-method investments.

 

11 As the Company is not the largest shareholder of these companies in the consideration of the potential voting rights, the Company accounts for these investments as equity-method investments.

 

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The details of changes in differences between the initial purchase price and the Company’s initial proportionate ownership in net book value of the investees ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, are as follows:

 

     2010  

(in millions of Korean won)

   2010.1.1     Addition     Amortization     2010.12.31  

Kumho Rent-A-Car

   (Won)      (Won) 1,415      (Won) (1,062   (Won) 353   

Metropol Property LLC

     1,044               (298     746   

eNtoB Corp.

     416        (345     (71       

Haitai Confectionery & Foods Co., Ltd.

            20,842        (3,908     16,934   
                                

Total

   (Won) 1,460      (Won) 21,912      (Won) (5,339   (Won) 18,033   
                                
     2009  

(in millions of Korean won)

   2009.1.1     Addition     Amortization     2009.12.31  

eNtoB Corp.

   (Won) 553      (Won)      (Won) (137   (Won) 416   

Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd.

     10,928               (10,928       

Harex Info Tech Inc.

     383               (383       

U-Mobile

     49,561        (43,731     (5,830       

Metropol Property LLC

     1,342               (298     1,044   

OliveNine Entertainment Co., Ltd.

     644        (644              

The Contents Entertainment

     947        (947              

Doremi Music Publishing Co., Ltd.

     (15     15                 
                                

Total

   (Won) 64,343      (Won) (45,307   (Won) (17,576   (Won) 1,460   
                                

There are no unrealized gains and losses arising from intercompany transactions to be eliminated as of December 31, 2010.

 

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The changes in the book values of equity-method investments for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

(In millions of Korean won)

  2010  

Investee

  2010.1.1     Acquisition
(Disposal)
    Valuation
gain(loss)
    Other increase
(Decrease)
    2010.12.31  

Kumho Rent-A-Car Global

  (Won)      (Won)      (Won) (1,719   (Won) 2,662      (Won) 943   

KBSi Co., Ltd.

    5,259               1,615               6,874   

CU Industrial Development Co., Ltd.

    12,769               (3,571            9,198   

KTCS Corporation

    16,449               3,127        37        19,613   

KTIS Corporation

    16,413               3,569        (550     19,432   

Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd. 1

    12,945               16,142        160        29,247   

MOS Facilities Co., Ltd.

    114               (253     240        101   

Kiwoom Investment Co., Ltd.

    7,175               462        221        7,858   

Korea Information & Technology Fund

    115,636               6,915        (509     122,042   

Exdell Corporation

    239               34               273   

Information Technology Solution Bukbu Corporation

    376               (8            368   

Information Technology Solution Nambu Corporation

    381               (21            360   

Information Technology Solution Seobu Corporation

    451               (17            434   

Information Technology Solution Busan Corporation

    339               (17            322   

Information Technology Solution Jungbu Corporation

    458               12               470   

Information Technology Solution Honam Corporation

    414               20               434   

Information Technology Solution Deagu Corporation

    269               (24            245   

Everyshow

    1,045               (378     21        688   

KT-Global New Media Fund

    12,932               (269            12,663   

Company K Movie Asset Fund No. 1

    8,806               556               9,362   

Boston Global Film & Contents Fund L.P. 1

    10,085               61               10,146   

OIC Co., Ltd. (formerly OIC Language Visual Limited)

    183               (142            41   

Mongolian Telecommunications

    11,135               (28     1,205        12,312   

Metropol Property LLC

    1,684               (45     (266     1,373   

WiBro Infra Co., Ltd.

           65,000        505        (3     65,502   

Harex Info Tech Inc.

    62               28        343        433   

Boston Film Fund

    4,249        (538     (2,338     10        1,383   

KTF-CJ Music Contents Investment Fund

    4,955               (3            4,952   

Shinhan-KT Mobilecard Co., Ltd.

    248               (248              

KT-DoCoMo Mobile Investment Fund

    4,473               385               4,858   

MetroM Co., Ltd.

    147               32               179   

KDNET Co., Ltd.

    147               (5            142   

GOODTECH Co., Ltd.

    153               27               180   

Touchtel Co., Ltd.

    180               3               183   

KNS Co.,Ltd (formerly Excelnet Co., Ltd.)

    120               (17     156        259   

KMTEC Co., Ltd.

    183               2               185   

MTT Co., Ltd.

    206               15               221   

Goodmorning F Co., Ltd.

    1,696        (884     77        2        891   

BKLCD Co., Ltd.

    19,542               (310     (1,121     18,111   

TPS

    1,283               3,512        (3,695     1,100   

ETN

    1                             1   

Oscar ent. Co., Ltd.

    398               25               423   

KT-IMM Investment Fund

           5,000        76               5,076   

Ansan U-City BTL 1

           98        (30            68   

Miraeasset Good Company Investment Fund No.3 1

           3,040        (32            3,008   

2010 KIF IMM IT Investement Fund 1

           700        (41            659   

Anyang KDC project

           2,600                      2,600   

QCP New technology investment fund 20th

           2,000               (1,904     96   

Nau IB 7th fund 1

           2,000        53        (1,751     302   

Saehacoms Co., Ltd.

           500        (107            393   

Crzyfish, Inc.

           500        (45            455   

Haitai Confectionery & Foods Co., Ltd

           53,741        (1,052            52,689   

Wooridle Film Investment Fund

    1,478               (447     (1,031       

eNtoB Corp. 1

    8,730        (7,937     400        (1,193       

WMC Co., Ltd.

    98               19        (117       

Sky Life Contents Fund

    3,751        (3,812     61                 

D&G Star Co., Ltd.

    27        (10     (2     (15       

Paramount Music Co., Ltd.

    305                      (305       
                                       

Total

  (Won) 287,989      (Won) 121,998      (Won) 26,564      (Won) (7,403   (Won) 429,148   
                                       

 

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Table of Contents

(In millions of Korean won)

  2009  

Investee

  2009.1.1     Acquisition
(Disposal)
    Valuation
gain(loss)
    Other Increase
(Decrease)
    2009.12.31  

Korea Telecom Directory Co., Ltd.

  (Won) 8,358      (Won)      (Won) (8,358   (Won)      (Won)   

KBSi Co., Ltd.

    4,679               580               5,259   

CU Industrial Development Co., Ltd.

    8,369               4,350        50        12,769   

KTCS Corporation

    13,666        1,050        1,771        (38     16,449   

KTIS Corporation

    12,812               2,233        1,368        16,413   

Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd.

    32,928               (4,018     (15,965     12,945   

MOS Facilities Co., Ltd.

    41               (275     348        114   

Kiwoom Investment Co., Ltd.

    6,953               54        168        7,175   

Korea Information & Technology Fund

    110,909               3,984        743        115,636   

Exdell Corporation

    218               21               239   

Information Technology Solution Bukbu Corporation

    225        (13     164               376   

Information Technology Solution Nambu Corporation

    221        (13     173               381   

Information Technology Solution Seobu Corporation

    222        (13     242               451   

Information Technology Solution Busan Corporation

    246        (13     106               339   

Information Technology Solution Jungbu Corporation

    295        (15     178               458   

Information Technology Solution Honam Corporation

    248        (13     179               414   

Information Technology Solution Deagu Corporation

    218        (12     63               269   

Everyshow

    1,226               (181            1,045   

KT-Global New Media Fund

    5,817        8,000        (885            12,932   

Company K Movie Asset Fund No. 1

    8,803               3               8,806   

Boston Global Film & Contents Fund L.P. 1

           10,001        84               10,085   

OIC Co., Ltd. (formerly OIC Language Visual Limited)

           200        (17            183   

Mongolian Telecommunications

    13,289               910        (3,064     11,135   

Metropol Property LLC

    1,776                      (92     1,684   

Harex Info Tech Inc.

    631               (569            62   

Boston Film Fund

    4,281               (32            4,249   

KTF-CJ Music Contents Investment Fund

    5,038               (83            4,955   

Shinhan-KT Mobilecard Co., Ltd.

    708               (460            248   

KT-DoCoMo Mobile Investment Fund

    4,439               34               4,473   

MetroM Co., Ltd.

                  76        71        147   

KDNET Co., Ltd.

                  75        72        147   

GOODTECH Co., Ltd.

                  81        72        153   

Touchtel Co., Ltd.

                  91        89        180   

KNS Co.,Ltd (formerly Excelnet Co., Ltd.)

                  30        90        120   

KMTEC Co., Ltd.

                  93        90        183   

MTT Co., Ltd.

                  117        89        206   

Goodmorning F Co., Ltd.

    1,460               235        1        1,696   

BKLCD Co., Ltd.

           20,000        (458            19,542   

TPS

    205               2,429        (1,351     1,283   

ETN

    1                             1   

Oscar ent. Co., Ltd.

    384               14               398   

Wooridle Film Investment Fund 1

    1,529               (51            1,478   

eNtoB Corp.

    8,740               281        (291     8,730   

WMC Co., Ltd.

                  27        71        98   

Sky Life Contents Fund

    3,737               14               3,751   

Netcom

    80               (1     (79       

D&G Star Co., Ltd.

    190               (163            27   

Paramount Music Co., Ltd.

    313               (8            305   

KTC Media Contents Investment Fund No.1

    4,510                      (4,510       

OLIVE9

           (3            3          

U Mobile

    82,663        (65,424     (17,794     555          

KSCALL

    327        (449     281        (159       

KOSNC

    341        (541     200                 

KCALL

    332        (515     183                 

TMWORLD

    320        (474     154                 

UMSNC

    293        (465     172                 

The Contents Entertainment

    950        (950                     

Olive Nine Creative Co., Ltd.

    150        (150                     

Onestone Communication Co., Ltd.

    206        (206                     
                                       

Total

  (Won) 353,347      (Won) (30,018   (Won) (13,671   (Won) (21,669   (Won) 287,989   
                                       

 

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1 In accordance with SKAS No. 24 Preparation and Presentation of Financial Statements II (Financial Industry), gain on valuation of equity-method investments amounting to (Won)136 million (2009: (Won)10 million) and loss on valuation of equity-method investments amounting to (Won)102 million (2009: (Won)16 million) recorded by KT Capital are classified as operating revenue and operating expense, respectively.

Market value information of publicly listed investees as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, is as follows:

 

      2010  

(In millions of Korean won)

   Number of Shares
Owned
     Market Price per
share
     Market Value      Recorded Book
Value
 

KTCS Corporation

     8,132,130       (Won) 2,210.0       (Won) 17,972       (Won) 19,613   

KTIS Corporation

     6,196,190         3,510.0         21,749         19,432   

Mongolian Telecommunications

     10,348,111         3,413.1         35,319         12,312   

 

      2009  

(In millions of Korean won)

   Number of Shares
Owned
     Market Price per
share
     Market Value      Recorded Book
Value
 

Mongolian Telecommunications

     10,348,111       (Won) 1,877.8       (Won) 19,432       (Won) 11,135   

Financial information of investees as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, are as follows:

 

(In millions of Korean won)

   2010  

Investee

   Assets      Liabilities      Sales      Net income(loss)  

Kumho Rent-A-Car Global

   (Won) 6,045       (Won) 4,868       (Won) 222,039       (Won) 1,333   

Korea Telecom Directory Co., Ltd.

     20,692         28,896         21,648         283   

KBSi Co., Ltd.

     31,246         10,017         57,947         4,987   

CU Industrial Development Co., Ltd.

     121,632         73,412         27,981         (18,986

KTCS Corporation

     168,243         53,237         353,950         16,270   

KTIS Corporation

     157,782         48,641         349,114         18,041   

Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd.

     533,246         385,935         431,356         42,956   

MOS Facilities Co., Ltd.

     6,097         5,463         22,252         (1,545

Kiwoom Investment Co., Ltd.

     39,173         215         5,135         2,296   

Korea Information & Technology Fund

     366,281                 27,930         20,747   

Exdell Corporation

     2,957         1,519         10,990         257   

Information Technology Solution Bukbu Corporation

     5,591         3,547         29,091         366   

Information Technology Solution Nambu Corporation

     4,763         2,763         31,918         246   

Information Technology Solution Seobu Corporation

     5,488         3,079         35,026         341   

Information Technology Solution Busan Corporation

     7,210         5,420         25,295         318   

Information Technology Solution Jungbu Corporation

     5,753         3,144         36,006         654   

Information Technology Solution Honam Corporation

     5,158         2,747         27,779         458   

Information Technology Solution Deagu Corporation

     2,892         1,528         18,086         225   

Everyshow

     4,199         874         7,454         (1,789

KT-Global New Media Fund

     25,357         32                 (539

Company K Movie Asset Fund No. 1

     15,604                 1,708         927   

Boston Global Film & Contents Fund L.P.

     32,053         196         993         192   

OIC Co., Ltd. (formerly OIC Language Visual Limited)

     243         37                 (709

Mongolian Telecommunications

     41,075         10,294         19,636         1,363   

Metropol Property LLC

     2,120         274         1,093         418   

WiBro Infra Co., Ltd.

     358,261         108,423         374         1,916   

Harex Info Tech Inc.

     3,593         660         3,075         354   

Boston Film Fund

     3,549                 612         148   

KTF-CJ Music Contents Investment Fund

     9,903                 627         (6

Shinhan-KT Mobilecard Co., Ltd.

     54         55         102         (498

KT-DoCoMo Mobile Investment Fund

     10,945         150         945         854   

MetroM Co., Ltd.

     2,186         1,284         14,810         192   

KDNET Co., Ltd.

     1,390         672         11,348         78   

 

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(In millions of Korean won)

   2010  

Investee

   Assets      Liabilities      Sales      Net income(loss)  

GOODTECH Co., Ltd.

     1,319         410         11,920         170   

Touchtel Co., Ltd.

     2,348         1,426         12,429         53   

KNS Co.,Ltd (formerly Excelnet Co., Ltd.)

     2,483         1,225         17,972         136   

KMTEC Co., Ltd.

     1,861         931         14,448         51   

MTT Co., Ltd.

     2,064         955         12,791         114   

Goodmorning F Co., Ltd.

     6,038         1,351         11,701         202   

Others

     939,868         670,705         749,304         11,092   

(In millions of Korean won)

   2009  

Investee

   Assets      Liabilities      Sales      Net income(loss)  

Korea Telecom Directory Co., Ltd.

   (Won) 25,809       (Won) 32,525       (Won) 7,206       (Won) (31,297

KBSi Co., Ltd.

     21,242         5,000         33,133         1,791   

CU Industrial Development Co., Ltd.

     122,646         55,439         55,918         22,898   

KTCS Corporation

     129,011         47,029         245,156         12,196   

KTIS Corporation

     129,494         48,715         119,679         13,200   

Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd.

     448,079         344,151         397,457         20,280   

MOS Facilities Co., Ltd.

     11,529         10,850         22,258         (1,547

Kiwoom Investment Co., Ltd.

     35,672         100         4,750         263   

Korea Information & Technology Fund

     346,909                 30,391         11,956   

Exdell Corporation

     2,111         851         10,781         115   

Information Technology Solution Bukbu Corporation

     5,036         2,946         22,452         906   

Information Technology Solution Nambu Corporation

     4,343         2,227         25,790         954   

Information Technology Solution Seobu Corporation

     4,961         2,457         25,866         1,334   

Information Technology Solution Busan Corporation

     3,508         1,623         50,624         589   

Information Technology Solution Jungbu Corporation

     5,072         2,525         34,375         991   

Information Technology Solution Honam Corporation

     4,655         2,355         19,172         995   

Information Technology Solution Deagu Corporation

     2,622         1,124         15,489         350   

Everyshow

     8,280         3,367         4,849         (851

KT-Global New Media Fund

     26,139         275                 (1,771

Company K Movie Asset Fund No. 1

     14,677                 1,498         6   

Boston Global Film & Contents Fund L.P.

     31,861         199                 262   

OIC Co., Ltd. (formerly OIC Language Visual Limited)

     920         6                 (86

Mongolian Telecommunications

     33,715         5,877         24,361         2,275   

Metropol Property LLC

     2,422         538         1,515         877   

Harex Info Tech Inc.

     1,114         823         1,782         (868

Boston Film Fund

     11,116         227         119         (111

KTF-CJ Music Contents Investment Fund

     9,960         50         653         (84

Shinhan-KT Mobilecard Co., Ltd.

     596         100         80         (919

KT-DoCoMo Mobile Investment Fund

     10,048         108         65         77   

MetroM Co., Ltd.

     1,486         748         13,998         210   

KDNET Co., Ltd.

     1,460         723         11,061         129   

GOODTECH Co., Ltd.

     1,753         985         11,600         214   

Touchtel Co., Ltd.

     1,767         862         11,996         80   

KNS Co.,Ltd (formerly Excelnet Co., Ltd.)

     1,180         577         11,631         201   

KMTEC Co., Ltd.

     1,442         523         13,459         108   

MTT Co., Ltd.

     1,839         805         12,300         196   

Goodmorning F Co., Ltd.

     11,841         2,917         46,545         1,235   

Wooridle Film Investment Fund

     7,393                 28         (200

eNtoB Corp.

     72,238         44,716         567,871         1,213   

WMC Co., Ltd.

     1,181         690         10,541         227   

Sky Life Contents Fund

     16,800         129         1,390         62   

Others

     159,019         110,140         323,679         4,815   

 

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The adjustments made on the financial statements of investees during the application of the equity method of accounting to reconcile their accounting policies with those of the Company as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and for the years then ended are as follows:

 

(In millions of Korean won)

   Net Asset
before
Adjustments
     Adjustments     Net Asset
after
Adjustments
    

Notes

Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd.

   (Won) 47,552       (Won) (18,305   (Won) 29,247       Adjustment of equity due to redeemable preferred stock

MOS Facilities Co., Ltd.

     122,094         (52     122,042       Adjustment of dividends payable

QCP New technology investment fund 20

     926         (830     96       Impairment of investments
                            

Total

   (Won) 170,572       (Won) (19,187   (Won) 151,385      
                            

The changes in the share of losses not recognized, as the Company discontinued recognizing its share of further losses exceeding its interest in the equity-method investees, as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

(In millions of Korean won)

   2010     2009  
     2010.1.1     Increase
(Decrease)
    2010.12.31     2009.1.1     Increase
(Decrease)
    2009.12.31  

Korea Telecom Directory Co., Ltd.

   (Won) (2,283   (Won) (506   (Won) (2,789   (Won)      (Won) (2,283   (Won) (2,283

Shinhan-KT Mobilecard Co., Ltd.

            (1     (1                     

Music City Media Co., Ltd.

     (688     688               (688            (688

PARANGOYANGI

     (542     542               (303     (239     (542
                                                

Total

   (Won) (3,513   (Won) 723      (Won) (2,790   (Won) (991   (Won) (2,522   (Won) (3,513
                                                

 

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8.    Property and Equipment

The changes in property, plant and equipment for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

    2010  

(In millions of Korean won)

  Land     Buildings     Structures     Machinery and
equipment
    Vehicles     Rental
asset
    Others 1     Construction-
in-progress
    Total  

Balance at 2010.1.1

  (Won) 1,466,791      (Won) 3,306,258      (Won) 147,920      (Won) 8,766,736      (Won) 31,069      (Won) 104,442      (Won) 360,526      (Won) 590,818      (Won) 14,774,560   

Acquisition

    10,156        1,468        835        50,525        1,205        801,091        89,850        2,587,210        3,542,340   

Disposal

    (531     (8,600     (9,816     (146,807     (66     (1,545     (25,008     (96     (192,469

Depreciation

           (158,461     (14,519     (2,370,126     (7,378     (140,157     (204,858            (2,895,499

Impairment

                         (519                   (8,778            (9,297

Others 1

    (12,592     94,966        6,165        2,188,230        107        (60,998     198,217        (2,405,872     8,223   
                                                                       

Balance at 2010.12.31

  (Won) 1,463,824      (Won) 3,235,631      (Won) 130,585      (Won) 8,488,039      (Won) 24,937      (Won) 702,833      (Won) 409,949      (Won) 772,060      (Won) 15,227,858   
                                                                       

Acquisition cost

  (Won) 1,463,956      (Won) 5,039,486      (Won) 322,783      (Won) 39,985,058      (Won) 81,190      (Won) 915,620      (Won) 1,809,979      (Won) 814,770      (Won) 50,432,842   

Accumulated depreciation

           (1,801,296     (191,102     (31,402,282     (56,253     (212,787     (1,385,156            (35,048,876

Accumulated impairment loss

                         (1,748                   (12,634            (14,382

Government grants

    (132     (2,559     (1,096     (92,989                   (2,240     (42,710     (141,726
    2009  

(In millions of Korean won)

  Land     Buildings     Structures     Machinery and
equipment
    Vehicles     Rental
asset
    Others 1     Construction-
in-progress
    Total  

Balance at 2009.1.1

  (Won) 1,289,230      (Won) 3,415,917      (Won) 229,676      (Won) 9,374,073      (Won) 34,606      (Won) 90,288      (Won) 459,414      (Won) 295,427      (Won) 15,188,631   

Acquisition

    48        841        2        34,937        727        112,910        32,081        2,592,880        2,774,426   

Disposal

    (12,021     (12,556     (1,780     (102,848     (143     (38,322     (21,087     (348     (189,105

Depreciation

           (150,103     (16,512     (2,511,196     (8,936     (40,195     (208,506            (2,935,448

Impairment

                         (229                   (134     (873     (1,236

Others

    189,534        52,159        (63,466     1,971,999        4,815        (20,239     98,758        (2,296,268     (62,708
                                                                       

Balance at 2009.12.31

  (Won) 1,466,791      (Won) 3,306,258      (Won) 147,920      (Won) 8,766,736      (Won) 31,069      (Won) 104,442      (Won) 360,526      (Won) 590,818      (Won) 14,774,560   
                                                                       

Acquisition cost

  (Won) 1,466,923      (Won) 4,977,592      (Won) 338,854      (Won) 40,256,240      (Won) 86,461      (Won) 209,252      (Won) 1,832,087      (Won) 651,441      (Won) 49,818,850   

Accumulated depreciation

           (1,668,667     (189,607     (31,376,363     (55,392     (104,810     (1,465,470            (34,860,309

Accumulated impairment loss

                         (1,761                   (3,855            (5,616

Government grants

    (132     (2,667     (1,327     (111,380                   (2,236     (60,623     (178,365

 

1 Others mainly consist of the transfers from construction-in-progress to machinery, increase in contribution for construction, increase due to changes in consolidated entities and reclassifications.

As of December 31, 2010, with respect to rental and leasehold contracts, certain land and buildings are pledged for mortgages and leasehold rights, and the maximum pledged amount is (Won)70,704 million (2009: (Won)73,392 million).

 

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As of December 31, 2010, the value of land based on the posted price issued by the Korean tax authority amounted to (Won)5,412,098 million (2009: (Won)5,549,125 million)

9.    Intangible Assets

The changes in intangible assets for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, are as follows:

 

    2010  

(In millions of Korean won)

  Goodwill     Industrial
rights
    Development
costs
    Software     Frequency
usage
rights
    Other
intangible
assets
    Total  

Balance at 2010.1.1

  (Won) 85,315      (Won) 10,471      (Won) 227,594      (Won) 165,570      (Won) 696,488      (Won) 94,062      (Won) 1,279,500   

Acquisition

    28,974        523        243,024        62,739        78        23,114        358,452   

Disposal

                  (13,520     (4,983            (2,567     (21,070

Amortization

    (74,677     (1,836     (111,650     (51,958     (115,650     (34,189     (389,960

Impairment

                         (1,811            (1,632     (3,443

Others

           (54     758        839               7,844        9,387   
                                                       

Balance at 2010.12.31

  (Won) 39,612      (Won) 9,104      (Won) 346,206      (Won) 170,396      (Won) 580,916      (Won) 86,632      (Won) 1,232,866   
                                                       
    2009  

(In millions of Korean won)

  Goodwill     Industrial
rights
    Development
costs
    Software     Frequency
usage
rights
    Other
intangible
assets
    Total  

Balance at 2009.1.1

  (Won) 228,394      (Won) 10,203      (Won) 193,793      (Won) 106,147      (Won) 812,137      (Won) 123,564      (Won) 1,474,238   

Acquisition

           1,785        140,208        60,401               12,721        215,115   

Amortization

    (137,487     (1,865     (102,366     (45,594     (115,649     (23,057     (426,018

Impairment

    (1,840            (714     (1,261            (3,927     (7,742

Others

    (3,752     348        (3,327     45,877               (15,239     23,907   
                                                       

Balance at 2009.12.31

  (Won) 85,315      (Won) 10,471      (Won) 227,594      (Won) 165,570      (Won) 696,488      (Won) 94,062      (Won) 1,279,500   
                                                       

The research and development expense for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, are as follows:

 

(In millions of Korean won)

   2010      2009      2008  

Research expense

   (Won) 268,681       (Won) 239,507       (Won) 235,508   

Development expense

     26,388         23,706         47,639   
                          

Total

   (Won) 295,069       (Won) 263,213       (Won) 283,147   
                          

As a significant expenditure, which is expected to have future economic benefits but is not capitalized in the year incurred because they are not under the Company’s control, training expense amounted to (Won)31,832 million (2009: (Won)23,575 million).

 

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10.    Insurance

As of December 31, 2010, the summary of assets covered under the insurance programs with various insurance companies are as follows:

 

           Coverage  

(In millions of Korean won)

  

Insurance type

   2010      2009  

Inventories

   Theft and fire    (Won) 145,100       (Won) 167,129   

Buildings

   Fire and other      1,326,221         1,347,580   

Machinery

   Property package and other      551,937         195,454   

Vessel (vehicles)

   Vessel and other      69,814         63,225   

Others 1

   Fire and other      452,492         481,139   
                    

Total

      (Won) 2,545,564       (Won) 2,254,527   
                    

 

1 Includes insurance for structures, finance lease receivables, other fixed assets and officers liability.

11.    Government Grants and Customers’ Contribution.

The changes in government grants and customers’ contribution to construction costs which are incurred in acquisition of assets for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, are as follows:

 

     2010  

(In millions of Korean won)

   2010.1.1      Increase      Decrease     Transfer     2010.12.31  

Land

   (Won) 132       (Won)       (Won)      (Won)      (Won) 132   

Buildings

     2,667                 (108            2,559   

Structures

     1,327                 (231            1,096   

Equipment

     111,380         218         (39,718     21,109        92,989   

Others

     2,236         28         (1,324     1,300        2,240   

Construction- in-progress

     60,623         4,496                (22,409     42,710   
                                          

Total

   (Won) 178,365       (Won) 4,742       (Won) (41,381   (Won)      (Won) 141,726   
                                          

 

     2009  

(In millions of Korean won)

   2009.1.1      Increase      Decrease     Transfer     2009.12.31  

Land

   (Won) 132       (Won)       (Won)      (Won)      (Won) 132   

Buildings

     2,188                 (233     712        2,667   

Structures

     1,507                 (185     5        1,327   

Equipment

     119,311                 (50,238     42,307        111,380   

Others

     1,786                 (1,311     1,761        2,236   

Construction- in-progress

     107,675         16,440         (18,707     (44,785     60,623   
                                          

Total

   (Won) 232,599       (Won) 16,440       (Won) (70,674   (Won)      (Won) 178,365   
                                          

13.    Derivatives

During the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, the Company entered into various derivatives contracts with financial institutions as below.

 

Type of transaction

  

Financial institution

  

Description

Interest rate swaps

  

Merrill Lynch and others

  

Exchange fixed interest rate for variable

interest rate for a specified period

Currency swaps

  

Merrill Lynch and others

  

Exchange foreign currency cash flow for local currency

cash flow local currency cash flow for a specified period

Combined interest rate currency swap

  

Merrill Lynch and others

  

Exchange foreign currency variable interest rate swaps

for local currency fixed interest rate

Currency forward

  

Kookmin Bank and others

  

Exchange a specified currency at the agreed exchange

rate at a specified date

 

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Table of Contents

Details of the above derivative contracts as of December 31, 2010 are as follows:

Currency swap contracts

 

     Contract     Settlement     Contract amounts in millions     Contract interest rate per
annum
 

Counterparty

  Year     Year             Pay                   Receive           Pay (%)     Receive%)  

Merrill Lynch

    2005        2034      KRW 2,003      US$ 20        6.24        6.50   

CITI

    2007        2012      KRW 46,800      JPY 50        4.79        5.13   

Merrill Lynch

    2007        2012      KRW 46,800      US$ 50        4.79        5.13   

Goldman Sachs

    2007        2012      KRW 46,800      US$ 50        4.79        5.13   

JPMorgan

    2008        2012      KRW 62,972      JPY 50        5.34        5.13   

JPMorgan

    2004        2014      KRW  115,620      US$ 100        5.50        5.88   

JPMorgan

    2004        2014      KRW 231,240      US$ 200        5.50        5.875 x n/N   

Merrill Lynch

    2004        2014      KRW 116,400      US$ 100        4.99        5.875 x n/N   

Merrill Lynch

    2004        2014      KRW 53,325      US$ 50        4.65        5.875 x n/N   

Deutsche Bank

    2004        2014      KRW 53,325      US$ 50        4.65        5.875 x n/N   

Merrill Lynch

    2005        2014      KRW 50,170      US$ 50        4.97        5.875 x n/N   

Credit Suisse

    2005        2014      KRW 50,175      US$ 50        4.97        5.875 x n/N   

Merrill Lynch

    2005        2015      KRW 51,800      US$ 50        4.57        4.875 x n/N   

UBS AG

    2005        2015      KRW 51,850      US$ 50        4.57        4.875 x n/N   

BTMU

    2008        2011      KRW 106,740      JPY 12,500        4.61        3M JPY Libor+0.60   

CA

    2008        2011      KRW 50,750      US$ 50        3.72        3M USD Libor+1.50   

HSBC

    2008        2012      KRW 81,200      US$ 80        4.08        3M USD Libor+1.60   

BNP

    2008        2012      KRW 30,450      US$ 30        4.08        3M USD Libor+1.60   

DBS

    2008        2013      KRW 217,940      US$ 200        5.57        3M USD Libor+1.50   

DBS

    2010        2013      KRW 112,200      US$ 100        4.07        3M USD Libor+0.47   

CA

    2008        2011      KRW 66,150      US$ 70        4.88        3M USD Libor+1.50   

ANZ

    2008        2011      KRW 33,075      US$ 35        4.76        3M USD Libor+1.50   

ABN

    2008        2011      KRW 28,335      US$ 30        4.97        3M USD Libor+1.50   

Hanabank

    2008        2011      KRW 18,912      US$ 20        4.52        3M USD Libor+1.50   

Nonghyop

    2008        2011      KRW 18,900      US$ 20        4.52        3M USD Libor+1.50   

BTMU

    2008        2011      KRW 39,124      US$ 4,000        5.03        3M JPY Libor+1.60   

Mizuho

    2008        2011      KRW 28,643      US$ 3,000        5.10        3M JPY Libor+1.60   

DBS

    2008        2011      KRW 51,400      US$ 50        5.84        3M USD Libor+1.60   

Wooriinvest

    2008        2011      KRW 15,420      US$ 15        5.82        3M USD Libor+1.60   

BNP

    2008        2011      KRW 31,500      US$ 30        5.88        3M USD Libor+1.60   

Wooribank

    2008        2011      KRW 31,500      US$ 30        5.77        3M USD Libor+2.00   

Korea Export Insurance Corporation

    2010        2011      USD 4      KRW 4,411                 

Kookmin Bank

    2008        2012      USD 13      KRW 14,593                 

Interest rate swap contracts

 

Counterparty

   Contract
period
     Notional amount
in millions
   Pay (%)    Receive (%)

Merrill Lynch

     2007-2015       USD 100    KRW CD+4.44%    KRW 8.36%

Merrill Lynch

     2008-2011       KRW 180,000    KRW 4.875% x m/N

+ KRW 4.875% x n/N

   USD 4.875% x n/N

Kookmin Bank

     2008-2011       KRW 20,000    CD+1.45%    6.55%

Kookmin Bank

     2008-2011       KRW 10,000    CD+1.35%    6.71%

Daegu Bank

     2008-2011       USD 3    8.43%    USD

Libor(3M)+4.00

 

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The assets and liabilities relating to outstanding contracts as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     2010  

(In millions of Korean won

and thousands of foreign currencies)

   Contract
amount
     Assets
(Current)
     Assets
(Non-current)
     Liabilities
(Current)
     Liabilities
(Non-current)
 

Interest rate swap

   KRW 210,000       (Won) 1,213       (Won)       (Won) 214       (Won)   
   USD 100,000               

Currency swap

   USD 223,771         479         34,193                 6,560   

Combined interest rate
currency swap

   USD

JPY

1,460,000

19,500,000

  

  

     149,415         62,973                 13,277   

Currency forward

   USD 16,976         136                 14         406   
                                            

Total

      (Won) 151,243       (Won) 97,166       (Won) 228       (Won) 20,243   
                                      
     2009  

(In millions of Korean won

and thousands of foreign currencies)

   Contract
amount
     Assets
(Current)
     Assets
(Non-current)
     Liabilities
(Current)
     Liabilities
(Non-current)
 

Interest rate swap

   KRW 256,000       (Won)       (Won) 23       (Won) 5,118       (Won) 656   
   USD 100,000               

Currency swap

   USD 220,000                 47,547                 3,782   

Combined interest rate
currency swap

   USD

JPY

1,410,000

19,500,000

  

  

             247,488                   

Currency forward

   USD 30,208         288                 6         1,717   
                                            

Total

      (Won) 288       (Won) 295,058       (Won) 5,124       (Won) 6,155   
                                      

 

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Table of Contents

Details of the currency swap and combined interest rate currency swap contracts to which hedge accounting is applied as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, are as follows:

 

       Assets
(Current)
     Assets
(Non-current)
     Liabilities
(Non-current)
 

(In millions of Korean won

and thousands of foreign currencies)

   Contract
date
    Maturity
date
     Contract
amount
     2010.12.31      2009.12.31      2010.12.31      2009.12.31      2010.12.31      2009.12.31  

Cash flow hedge

                         

Currency swap 1

     2007.4.4        2012.4.11       USD 150,000       (Won)       (Won)       (Won) 34,193       (Won) 42,839       (Won)       (Won)   
     2008.10.6        2012.4.11       USD 50,000                                         5,930         3,782   
     2009.6.20        2034.9.7       USD 20,000                                 4,708         630           

Combined

     2008.1.4        2011.1.11       JPY 12,500,000         67,510                         48,908                   

interest rate

     2008.3.20        2011.3.31       USD 50,000         6,220                         7,751                   

currency swap 1

     2008.3.20        2012.3.31       USD 110,000                         12,366         18,233                   
     2008.9.2        2013.9.11       USD 200,000                                 5,988         9,527           
     2010.4.9        2013.4.9       USD 100,000                                         3,750           
     2009.6.20        2014.6.24       USD 600,000                         38,443         66,812                   
     2009.6.20        2015.7.15       USD 100,000                         12,164         20,172                   
     2008.2.25        2011.2.25       USD 175,000         33,735                         37,236                   
     2008.4.28        2011.4.28       JPY 7,000,000         29,998                         20,098                   
     2008.6.20        2011.6.20       USD 95,000         9,269                         10,522                   
     2008.3.12  2      2010.12.13       USD                                 8,785                   
     2008.7.2        2011.4.4       USD 30,000         2,683                         2,983                   
                                                             

Sub-total

             149,415                 97,166         295,035         19,837         3,782   
                                                             

Fair value hedge

                         

Interest rate swap 3

     2009.9.1        2011.12.1       KRW 180,000         1,213                         23                   
                                                             

Total

           (Won) 150,628       (Won)  —       (Won) 97,166       (Won) 295,058       (Won) 19,837       (Won) 3,782   
                                                             

 

1 In applying the cash flow hedge accounting, the Company hedges its exposures to cash flow fluctuation until September 7, 2034. Approximately (Won)6,374 million of net derivative loss included in accumulated other comprehensive income at December 31, 2010, is expected to be recognized in current operations within 12 months from that date.

 

2 The remaining principal of the derivative is repaid at maturity during the year ended December 31, 2010.

 

3 Above interest rate swap contract is to hedge the risk of variability in future fair value from the bond and, accordingly, the loss on valuation of the swap contract amounting to (Won)1,190 million is included in operations for the year ended December 31, 2010.

 

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Table of Contents

The valuation gains and losses on the derivatives contracts for years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, are as follows:

 

     2010  

(In millions of Korean won)

   For trading      For hedging  

Type of Transaction

   Valuation
gain 1
     Valuation
loss
     Valuation
gain
     Valuation
loss
     Accumulated other
comprehensive  loss 2
 

Interest rate swap

   (Won) 4,999       (Won)  —       (Won) 1,190       (Won)       (Won)   

Currency swap

                             6,322         (11,942

Combined interest rate currency swap

                     33,595         41,385         (38,476

Currency forward

     1,447         14                           
                                            

Total

   (Won) 6,446       (Won) 14       (Won) 34,785       (Won) 47,707       (Won) (50,418
                                            
     2009  

(In millions of Korean won)

   For trading      For hedging  

Type of Transaction

   Valuation
gain 1
     Valuation
loss
     Valuation
gain
     Valuation
loss
     Accumulated other
comprehensive  income 2
 

Interest rate swap

   (Won) 6,883       (Won)       (Won) 23       (Won)       (Won)   

Currency swap

             9,574         250         17,005         (3,809

Combined interest rate currency swap

     6,178         75,401         4,605         89,282         (23,095

Currency forward

     3,317         6                           

Put option

     223                                   
                                            

Total

   (Won) 16,601       (Won) 84,981       (Won) 4,878       (Won) 106,287       (Won) (26,904
                                            
     2008  

(In millions of Korean won)

   For trading      For hedging  

Type of Transaction

   Valuation
gain
     Valuation
loss
     Valuation
gain
     Valuation
loss
     Accumulated other
comprehensive  income 2
 

Interest rate swap

   (Won)       (Won) 10,798       (Won)       (Won)  —       (Won)   

Currency swap

     17,626                 54,905         97         11,708   

Combined interest rate currency swap

     297,925                 267,655                 (22,146

Currency forward

             6,088                           

Put option

     12,569                                   
                                            

Total

   (Won) 328,120       (Won) 16,886       (Won) 322,560       (Won) 97       (Won) (10,438
                                            

 

1 In accordance with SKAS No. 24, Preparation and Presentation of Financial Statements II (Financial Industry), the gain on valuation of currency forwards amounting to (Won)1,311 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, and the gain on valuation of currency forwards amounting to (Won)3,029 million and the gain on valuation of interest rate swap amounting to (Won)807 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, recorded by KT Capital are classified as operating income.

 

2 The amounts directly reflected in equity before adjustments of deferred income tax.

 

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Table of Contents

14.    Bonds payable and long-term borrowings

Bonds Payable

 

(In millions of Korean won and
thousands of foreign currencies)

               2010.12.31      2009.12.31  

Type

   Maturity     

Annual
Interest
Rates

   Foreign
Currency
     Korean
Won
     Foreign
Currency
     Korean
Won
 
        

MTNP notes 1

     2014.6.24       5.88%      USD 600,000       (Won) 683,340         USD 600,000       (Won) 700,560   

MTNP notes 1

     2034.9.7       6.50%      USD 100,000         113,890         USD 100,000         116,760   

MTNP notes 1

     2015.7.15       4.88%      USD 400,000         455,560         USD 400,000         467,040   

MTNP notes 1

     2016.5.3       5.88%      USD 200,000         227,780         USD 200,000         233,520   

Euro bonds

     2012.4.11       5.13%      USD 200,000         227,780         USD 200,000         233,520   

FR notes 2

     2013.9.11      

Libor(3M)

+1.5%

     USD 200,000         227,780         USD 200,000         233,520   

FR notes 2

     2013.4.9      

Libor(3M)

+0.47%

     USD 100,000         113,890                   

The 132nd Public bond

     2011.2.9       7.68%              70,000                 70,000   

The 159th Public bond

     2013.10.27       5.39%              300,000                 300,000   

The 160th Public bond

     2010.11.24       5.45%                              200,000   

The 161st Public bond

     2010.12.23       5.61%                              230,000   

The 162nd Public bond

     2011.2.27       5.52%              320,000                 320,000   

The 163rd Public bond

     2014.3.30       5.51%              170,000                 170,000   

The 164th Public bond

     2011.6.21       5.22%              260,000                 260,000   

The 165-1st Public bond

     2011.8.26       4.22%              130,000                 130,000   

The 165-2nd Public bond

     2014.8.26       4.44%              140,000                 140,000   

The 166-1st Public bond

     2010.3.21       4.37%                              220,000   

The 166-2nd Public bond

     2012.3.21       4.57%              100,000                 100,000   

The 167-1st Public bond

     2012.4.20       4.59%              100,000                 100,000   

The 167-2nd Public bond

     2015.4.20       4.84%              100,000                 100,000   

The 168-1st Public bond

     2012.6.21       4.43%              240,000                 240,000   

The 168-2nd Public bond

     2015.6.21       4.66%              90,000                 90,000   

The 169th Public bond

     2012.4.3       5.01%              140,000                 140,000   

The 170th Public bond 2

     2011.1.11      

Tibor(3M)

+0.6%

     JPY12,500,000         174,635         JPY12,500,000         157,853   

The 171st Public bond

     2013.2.28       5.41%              100,000                 100,000   

The 172-1st Public bond 2

     2011.3.31      

Libor(3M)

+1.5%

     USD 50,000         56,945         USD 50,000         58,380   

The 172-2nd Public bond 2

     2012.3.31      

Libor(3M)

+1.6%

     USD 110,000         125,279         USD 110,000         128,436   

The 173-1st Public bond

     2013.8.6       6.49%              100,000                 100,000   

The 173-2nd Public bond

     2018.8.6       6.62%              100,000                 100,000   

The 174-1st Public bond

     2010.12.19       5.34%                              100,000   

The 174-2nd Public bond

     2011.12.19       5.56%              130,000                 130,000   

The 175-1st Public bond

     2012.2.27       4.80%              40,000                 40,000   

The 175-2nd Public bond

     2014.2.27       5.47%              360,000                 360,000   

The 176-1st Public bond

     2012.5.28       4.37%              100,000                 100,000   

The 176-2nd Public bond

     2014.5.28       5.06%              170,000                 170,000   

The 176-3rd Public bond

     2016.5.28       5.24%              260,000                 260,000   

The 177-1st Public bond

     2013.2.9       4.86%              240,000                   

The 177-2nd Public bond

     2015.2.9       5.26%              190,000                   

The 177-3rd Public bond

     2017.2.9       5.38%              170,000                   

The 47-2nd Public bond

     2011.7.12       5.32%              70,000                 70,000   

The 48th Public bond

     2010.2.15       5.31%                              200,000   

The 49th Public bond 2

     2011.2.25      

Libor(3M)

+1.5%

     USD 175,000         199,308         USD 175,000         204,330   

The 50th Public bond 2

     2011.4.28      

Tibor(3M)

+1.6%

     JPY 7,000,000         97,796         JPY 7,000,000         88,397   

The 51-1st Public bond 2

     2011.6.20      

Libor(3M)

+1.6%

     USD 95,000         108,196         USD 95,000         110,922   

 

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Table of Contents

(In millions of Korean won and thousands of
foreign currencies)

               2010.12.31      2009.12.31  

Type

   Maturity     

Annual
Interest
Rates

   Foreign
Currency
     Korean
Won
     Foreign
Currency
     Korean
Won
 
        

The 51-2nd Public bond

     2013.6.20       6.41%              70,000                 70,000   

The 52-1st Private bond

     2011.8.4       6.20%              100,000                 100,000   

The 52-2nd Public bond

     2013.8.4       6.64%              100,000                 100,000   

The 53-1st Public bond

     2010.12.1       8.23%                              20,000   

The 53-2nd Public bond

     2011.12.1       8.36%              181,212                 180,023   

Public bond

     2010. 4.17       5.29%                              10,000   

Public bond

     2011.7.24       6.82%              5,000                 5,000   

Public bond

     2013.4.19       5.15%              10,000                   

Public bond(19-2nd)

     2010.5.10       4.69%                              10,000   

The 10th Public bond

     2010.6.18       5.70%                              40,000   

The 11th Private bond

     2010.12.6       6.85%                              20,000   

The 12th Public bond

     2011.5.23       6.39%              20,000                 20,000   

The 13-2nd Public bond

     2010.4.2       8.30%                              10,000   

The 14th Public bond

     2012.1.8       8.90%              30,000                 30,000   

The 15th Public bond

     2011.10.26       5.70%              30,000                 30,000   

The 16th Public bond

     2012.11.27       5.85%              30,000                 30,000   

The 17-1st Public bond

     2012.3.11       5.20%              10,000                   

The 18-1st Public bond

     2012.4.9       4.50%              10,000                   

The 18-2nd Public bond

     2013.4.9       5.04%              70,000                   

The 17-2nd Public bond

     2013.3.11       5.62%              30,000                   

The 1-2nd Public bond

     2011.2.6       8.74%              20,000                   

The 3rd Public bond

     2012.6.22       6.89%              100,000                   

The 1th Private bond

     2010.3.16       5.80%                              30,000   

The 2nd Private bond

     2010.4.16       5.94%                              20,000   

The 4th Public bond

     2010.5.30       5.70%                              40,000   

The 5th Private bond

     2010.6.29       5.67%                              20,000   

The 6-2nd Public bond

     2010.8.3       5.72%                              30,000   

The 7-2nd Public bond

     2010.8.31       6.05%                              20,000   

The 8th Private bond

     2010.9.28       6.26%                              30,000   

The 9-2nd Public bond

     2010.10.18       6.44%                              20,000   

The 11th Public bond

     2010.12.27      

CD(91D)

+1.39%

                             20,000   

The 13-1st Public bond

     2010.2.21       6.33%                              30,000   

The 13-2nd Public bond

     2011.2.21       6.48%              30,000                 30,000   

The 14-1st Public bond

     2010.3.28       6.37%                              10,000   

The 14-2nd Public bond

     2011.3.28       6.47%              10,000                 10,000   

The 15th Private bond

     2010.4.21      

MOR(3M)

+1.28%

                             20,000   

The 16-1st Public bond

     2010.1.30       6.33%                              60,000   

The 16-2nd Public bond

     2011.4.30       6.46%              10,000                 10,000   

The 17-3rd Public bond

     2013.5.30       7.14%              50,000                 50,000   

The 18-2nd Public bond

     2010.6.23       7.12%                              40,000   

The 18-3rd Public bond

     2011.6.23       7.22%              20,000                 20,000   

The 18-4th Public bond

     2013.6.23       7.55%              10,000                 10,000   

The 19-2nd Public bond

     2010.3.11       7.80%                              10,000   

The 19-3rd Public bond

     2010.9.11       7.93%                              20,000   

The 19-4th Public bond

     2010.9.11      

CD(91D)

+1.95%

                             10,000   

The 22-1st Public bond

     2010.7.23       8.70%                              10,000   

The 22-2nd Public bond

     2011.1.23       8.75%              35,000                 35,000   

The 22-3rd Public bond

     2012.1.23       8.95%              25,000                 25,000   

The 23rd Public bond

     2011.5.29       5.35%              20,000                 20,000   

The 24th Public bond

     2012.6.29       6.28%              30,000                 30,000   

The 25-1st Public bond

     2011.7.30       6.20%              20,000                 20,000   

The 25-2nd Public bond

     2012.7.30       5.75%              25,000                 25,000   

The 26th Public bond

     2012.8.27       6.33%              50,000                 50,000   

 

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Table of Contents

(In millions of Korean won and thousands of
foreign currencies)

            2010.12.31     2009.12.31  

Type

  Maturity    

Annual
Interest
Rates

  Foreign
Currency
    Korean
Won
    Foreign
Currency
    Korean
Won
 

The 27th Private bond

    2012.9.4      6.33%            10,000               10,000   

The 28-1st Public bond

    2011.11.12      5.70%            20,000               20,000   

The 28-2nd Public bond

    2012.11.12      6.08%            30,000               30,000   

The 29-1st Public bond

    2011.11.30      5.60%            10,000               10,000   

The 29-2nd Public bond

    2012.11.30      6.00%            40,000               40,000   

The 30-1st Public bond

    2011.6.23      5.30%            10,000               10,000   

The 30-2nd Public bond

    2011.12.23      5.60%            10,000               10,000   

The 30-3rd Public bond

    2012.12.23      5.95%            10,000               10,000   

The 31st Public bond

    2012.12.31      5.98%            10,000               10,000   

The 32-1st Public bond

    2012.1.22      5.65%            10,000                 

The 32-2nd Public bond

    2013.1.22      5.95%            50,000                 

The 32-3rd Public bond

    2015.1.22      6.70%            30,000                 

The 33rd Public bond

    2015.2.11      6.45%            50,000                 

The 34-1st Public bond

    2012.2.26      5.30%            30,000                 

The 34-2nd Public bond

    2013.2.26      5.60%            10,000                 

The 35-1st Public bond

    2012.3.22      4.65%            20,000                 

The 35-2nd Public bond

    2013.3.22      5.05%            30,000                 

The 36-1st Public bond 2

    2012.4.30     

CD(91D)

+1.09%

           20,000                 

The 36-2nd Public bond

    2013.4.30      4.75%            30,000                 

The 36-3rd Public bond

    2015.4.30      5.65%            20,000                 

The 37-1st Public bond

    2011.12.30      4.85%            10,000                 

The 37-2nd Public bond

    2012.6.30      5.13%            10,000                 

The 37-3rd Public bond

    2013.6.30      5.45%            20,000                 

The 37-4th Public bond

    2014.6.30      5.85%            10,000                 

The 38-1st Public bond

    2012.1.19      4.80%            30,000                 

The 38-2nd Public bond

    2012.7.19      5.08%            30,000                 

The 38-3rd Public bond

    2014.7.19      5.85%            10,000                 

The 39th Public bond

    2013.7.30      5.35%            30,000                 

The 40-1st Public bond

    2012.5.10      4.69%            40,000                 

The 40-2nd Public bond

    2013.8.10      5.33%            20,000                 

The 40-3rd Public bond

    2015.8.10      5.95%            20,000                 

The 41-1st Public bond

    2012.9.17      4.22%            30,000                 

The 41-2nd Public bond

    2013.9.17      4.63%            20,000                 

The 41-3rd Public bond

    2014.9.17      5.10%            10,000                 

The 42-1st Public bond

    2013.11.22      4.62%            30,000                 

The 42-2nd Public bond

    2014.11.23      5.10%            20,000                 

The 42-3rd Public bond

    2015.11.24      5.44%            10,000                 

The 1st Private bond

    2010.3.24      BD+3.95%                          40,000   
                       

Total

          8,953,391          8,913,261   

Less: Current portion

          (2,178,092       (1,540,000

Less: Discount on bonds

          (29,626       (35,862
                       

Net

        (Won) 6,745,673        (Won) 7,337,399   
                       

 

1 As of December 31, 2010, the Controlling Company has issued notes in the amount of USD 1,300 million with fixed interest rates under Medium Term Note Program (“MTNP”) registered in the Singapore Stock Exchange, which allows issuance of notes of up to USD 2,000 million, with the unused balance under the program amounting to USD 700 million.

 

2 The Libor (3M), Tibor (3M) and CD(91D) are approximately 0.30%, 0.34% and 2.80%, respectively, as of December 31, 2010.

 

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Long-term Borrowings

 

(In millions of Korean won and thousands of
foreign currencies)

          2010.12.31     2009.12.31  

Type

   Annual
Interest
Rates
     Foreign
Currency
     Korean
Won
    Foreign
Currency
     Korean
Won
 

Informatization Promotion Fund 1

     3.52%~4.29%       (Won)       (Won) 31,371        (Won)       (Won) 31,518   

Inter-Korean Cooperation Fund 1

     2.00%                 6,415                6,415   

Facility and working capital loans

     4.00%~8.43%                 357,609                67,411   

General purpose loans

     4.06%~5.80%                 185,163                65,815   

Commercial papers

     2.9%~6.60%                 85,000                50,000   

Facility loans in foreign currency

    
 
LIBOR(3M)
+2.0%
  
  
   USD  30,000         34,167      USD  70,000         81,732   

Other long-term borrowings in foreign currency

     LIBOR+1.70%       USD 16,000         18,222        USD 22,400         26,154   
    
 
 
USD
LIBOR(3M)
+0.99%
  
  
  
     USD 11,000         12,528        USD 15,000         17,514   
     LIBOR+3.5%                        RUB 29,380         1,131   
     16.50%         UZS 2,259         1,581      UZS 2,047         1,577   
                         

Total

           732,056           349,267   

Less: Current portion

           (259,042        (150,340

Present value discounts

                     (654
                         

Net

         (Won) 473,014         (Won) 198,273   
                         

 

1 The above Informatization Promotion Funds are repayable in installments over three years after a two-year grace period, while Inter-Korean Cooperation Fund is repayable in installments over 13 years after a seven-year grace period.

Repayment Schedule

Repayment schedule of the Company’s bonds and long-term borrowings as of December 31, 2010, is as follows:

 

(In millions of Korean won)

  Bonds     Borrowings  

Year ending December 31

  In local
currency
    In foreign
currency
    Sub- total     Borrowings in
local
currency
    Borrowings in
foreign
currency
    Sub-
total
    Total  

2011

  (Won) 1,541,213      (Won) 636,879      (Won) 2,178,092      (Won) 205,058      (Won) 53,984      (Won) 259,042      (Won) 2,437,134   

2012

    1,350,000        353,059        1,703,059        210,830        8,871        219,701        1,922,760   

2013

    1,320,000        341,670        1,661,670        237,008        3,643        240,651        1,902,321   

2014

    890,000        683,340        1,573,340        5,161               5,161        1,578,501   

Thereafter

    1,040,000        797,230        1,837,230        7,501               7,501        1,844,731   
                                                       

Total

  (Won) 6,141,213      (Won) 2,812,178      (Won) 8,953,391      (Won) 665,558      (Won) 66,498      (Won) 732,056      (Won) 9,685,447   
                                                       

 

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15.    Accrued Severance Benefits

Changes in accrued severance benefits for the year ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, are as follows:

 

(In millions of Korean won)

   2010  

Balance at 2010.1.1

   (Won) 1,488,086   

Decrease

     (490,055

Provision for severance benefits

     233,111   

Others

     (137
        

Balance at 2010.12.31

     1,231,005   

Less : Severance insurance deposits

     (870,928

Less : Cumulative deposits to the National Pension Fund

     (49
        

Total

   (Won) 360,028   
        

(In millions of Korean won)

   2009  

Balance at 2009.1.1

   (Won) 1,663,690   

Decrease

     (409,295

Provision for severance benefits

     233,691   
        

Balance at 2009.12.31

     1,488,086   

Less : Severance insurance deposits

     (1,150,544

Less : Cumulative deposits to the National Pension Fund

     (18
        

Total

   (Won) 337,524   
        

The estimated value of severance benefits for all employees, as of December 31, 2010, amounts to (Won)1,231,005 million which are fully recognized as accrued severance benefits. In addition, as of December 31, 2010, accrued severance benefits are funded at approximately 70.75% through a severance insurance plan and defined benefit severance pension plan with Samsung Life Insurance.

16.    Provisions

Changes in provisions for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, are as follows:

 

     2010  
     2010.1.1      Increase      Transfer     Decrease     Others      2010.12.31  

(In millions of Korean won)

           Usage     Reversal       

Current portion

                 

Litigation 1

   (Won) 17,010       (Won) 9,630       (Won)      (Won) (2,116   (Won) (964   (Won)       (Won) 23,560   

KT members points 2

     546                               (546               

KT points 3

     3,591                        (1,639                    1,952   

Call bonus points 4

     7,271                 12,990        (11,942                    8,319   

Olleh club points 5

                     27,013        (7,912                    19,101   

Sales warranty reserve

     6,245         5,684                (6,261                    5,668   

Others 7

     5,178         44,637         (474     (12,763     (7,006     1,009         30,581   
                                                           

Sub-total

     39,841         59,951         39,529        (42,633     (8,516     1,009         89,181   
                                                           

Non-current portion

                 

KT points 3

     2,457                               (1,016             1,441   

Call bonus points 4

     6,438         14,711         (12,990                           8,159   

Olleh club points 5

             29,063         (27,013                           2,050   

Asset retirement obligation 6

     93,211         22,759         474        (6,936     (8,353             101,155   

Others 7

     1,470         656                (47     (431             1,648   
                                                           

Sub-total

     103,576         67,189         (39,529     (6,983     (9,800             114,453   
                                                           

Total

   (Won) 143,417       (Won) 127,140       (Won)      (Won) (49,616   (Won) (18,316   (Won) 1,009       (Won) 203,634   
                                                           

 

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     2009  

(In millions of Korean won)

   2009.1.1      Increase      Transfer     Decrease     Others      2010.12.31  
                               Usage     Reversal         

Current portion

                 

Litigation 1

   (Won) 19,572       (Won) 2,204       (Won)      (Won) (4,766   (Won)      (Won)       (Won) 17,010   

KT members points 2

     681                        (110     (25             546   

KT points 3

     4,774                 4,642        (5,825                    3,591   

Call bonus points 4

     5,504                 4,999        (3,232                    7,271   

Sales warranty reserve

     5,299         9,285                (8,339                    6,245   

Others 7

     2,985         5,033                (2,745     (719     624         5,178   
                                                           

Sub-total

     38,815         16,522         9,641        (25,017     (744     624         39,841   
                                                           

Non-current portion

                 

KT points 3

     7,099                 (4,642                           2,457   

Call bonus points 4

     5,109         7,935         (4,999     (1,607                    6,438   

Asset retirement obligation 6

     71,533         13,997                (6,188     (3,935     17,804         93,211   

Others 7

     1,405         374                       (309             1,470   
                                                           

Sub-total

     85,146         22,306         (9,641     (7,795     (4,244     17,804         103,576   
                                                           

Total

   (Won) 123,961       (Won) 38,828       (Won)      (Won) (32,812   (Won) (4,988   (Won) 18,428       (Won) 143,417   
                                                           

 

 

1 The amount recognized as litigation provision represents the estimate of payments required to settle the obligation.

 

2 The Company recorded provisions for the KT members points with which VIP customers of the fixed-line or mobile telephone service are entitled to receive certain goods and other benefits for up to (Won)25,000 per person.

 

3 The amount recognized as call bonus points represents the estimate of payments for call bonus points which are provided to fixed-line customers based on the usage of the services. Once certain criteria are met, customers are entitled to receive certain goods and other benefits from the Company. Such provision is reviewed at each reporting date and adjusted to reflect the current best estimates based on changes in circumstances, or an acquisition of new information or additional experience on the usage rate, expiration of points and others.

 

4 The Company recorded provision for the Let’s 010 (KT-PCS) call bonus points with which its PCS subscribers are entitled to receive certain goods and other benefits from the Company.

 

5 The Company recognized estimated expenses for the integrated mileage program of wireless membership, wired and wireless mileage, Show point service and Shocking package, which commenced in June 2010.

 

6 When the Company is responsible for restoration of leased facility after termination of the lease contract, the present value of expected future expenditure for the restoration is recorded as a liability.

 

7 Points are granted to customers, employees and the customers of business partners. The Company accounts for this points as welfare expense and others based on nature of provision.

17.    Lease

The Company as Lessee

Property and equipment acquired through lease arrangements with GE Capital and others as of December 31, 2010 are as follows:

Finance Lease

Details of finance lease assets as of December 31, 2010 are as follows:

 

(In millions of Korean won)

   2010  

Acquisition costs

   (Won) 22,332   

Accumulated depreciation

     (11,342
        

Net balance

   (Won) 10,990   
        

The related depreciation amounted to (Won)2,029 million for the year ended December 31, 2010.

 

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Details of future minimum lease payments as of December 31, 2010 under capital lease contracts are summarized below:

 

(In millions of Korean won)

   Minimum
lease
payments
     Present
values
 

Within one year

   (Won) 6,387       (Won) 5,282   

From one year to five years

     16,372         14,527   
                 

Total

   (Won) 22,759       (Won) 19,809   
                 

Operating Lease

Details of future minimum lease payments as of December 31, 2010 under operating lease contracts are summarized below:

 

(In millions of Korean won)

   2010  

Within one year

   (Won) 4,924   

From one year to five years

     2,670   
        

Total

   (Won) 7,594   
        

Operating lease expenses incurred for the year ended December 31, 2010 amounted to (Won)28,278 million.

The Company as Lessor

Finance Lease

Details of finance lease investments as of December 31, 2010 are as follow:

 

(In millions of Korean won)

   Minimum
lease
payments
     Unguaranteed
residual value
     Gross
investment in
the lease
     Unaccrued
interest
     Net
investment in
the lease
 

Within one year

   (Won) 299,364       (Won) 11,903       (Won) 311,267       (Won) 68,111       (Won) 243,156   

From one year to five years

     539,092         21,135         560,227         120,216         440,011   

Thereafter

     20,644                 20,644         1,552         19,092   
                                            

Balance at 2010.12.31

   (Won) 859,100       (Won) 33,038       (Won) 892,138       (Won) 189,879       (Won) 702,259   
                                            

Bad debts allowances provided for doubtful minimum lease receivables as of December 31, 2010 are as follow:

 

(In millions of Korean won)

   2010  

Within one year

   (Won) 2,742   

From one year to five years

     5,025   

Thereafter

     230   
        

Total

   (Won) 7,997   
        

Operating Lease

Annual future lease receipts from operating lease agreements as of December 31, 2010 are as follows:

 

(In millions of Korean won)

   Undiscounted
amounts
     Present
values
 

Within one year

   (Won) 13,676       (Won) 11,879   

From one year to five years

     31,888         28,937   
                 

Total

   (Won) 45,564       (Won) 40,816   
                 

 

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18.    Commitments and Contingencies

As of December 31, 2010, major commitments with local financial institutions are as follows:

 

(In millions of Korean won and thousands of foreign currencies)

  

Financial Institution

   Limit  

Bank overdraft

   Kookmin Bank and others    (Won) 1,435,000   

Commercial papers

   Korea Exchange Bank      100,000   

Loan on information and communications fund

   Kookmin Bank and others      40,567   

Collateralized loan on accounts receivable—trade

   Kookmin Bank and others      418,000   

Collection for foreign currency denominated checks

   Korea Exchange Bank    USD 1,000   

Plus commercial papers

   IBK Bank    (Won) 150,000   

Letters of credit

   Shinhan Bank and others      348,000   
      USD 13,000   

Others

   Shinhan Bank and others    (Won) 230,000   
      USD 87,005   
           

As of December 31, 2010, guarantees received from financial institutions are as follows:

 

(In millions of Korean won and thousands of foreign
currencies)

 

Financial Institution

  Limit     Used Amount  

Performance guarantee for construction

  Seoul Guarantee Insurance   (Won) 76,313      (Won)   

Performance guarantee

  Export-Import Bank of Korea   USD 4,518      USD 4,518   
    SAR 735      SAR 735   
    DZD 25,863      DZD 25,863   
  Seoul Guarantee Insurance   (Won) 15,578      (Won) 15,578   
  Korea Software Financial Cooperative and others 1     150,000        76,220   
        56,628   

Bid guarantee

  Seoul Guarantee Insurance     30,248        30,248   

Bonds payable in foreign currency guarantee

  Kookmin Bank   USD 85,652      USD 5,652   
  Korea Exchange Bank   USD 5,000      USD 2,191   
  Shinhan Bank   USD 27,512        USD 21,502   
  HSBC   USD 80,000      USD   

Advances received guarantee

  Export-Import Bank of Korea   USD 2,925      USD 2,925   
    DZD 77,589      DZD  77,589   

General guarantee

  Shinhan Bank   (Won) 26,398      (Won) 26,398   
  Korea Exchange Bank     3,600          

Guarantee for import letter of credit

  Korea Exchange Bank   USD 5,000      USD   

Others

  Industrial Bank of Korea   USD 400      USD 400   

 

1 The maturities of guarantee contracts have lapsed. However, due to the two-year statute of limitations the Company still receives guarantees amounting to (Won)159,903 million from Korea Software Financial Cooperative as of December 31, 2010.

As of December 31, 2010, guarantees provided by the Company for third parties are as follows:

 

(In millions of Korean won)   

Creditor

   Limit  

Eun-haeng 1-area urban environment Improving project union

   Kookmin Bank    (Won) 2,600   

General guarantee

   KEPCO Corp. and others      193   

Defective guarantee

   Samsung C&T Corporation and others      19   

Performance guarantee

   National Federations of Fisheries Cooperative and others      41   

Permission guarantee and others

   Seobu Regional Forest Management Office and others      59   

Other Project Financing

   NH Investment & Securities Co. Ltd and others      35,169   

Employee Stock Ownership

   Hana Bank      154   

As of December 31, 2010, 127 lawsuits have been filed against the Company as a defendant, with an aggregate amount of (Won)220,300 million. As of December 31, 2010, litigation provision in

 

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relation to the potential loss amounted to (Won)23,560 million and is recorded as liabilities. The final outcome of these cases cannot yet be determined as of the report date.

As of December 31, 2010, the Company’s investment in Smart Channel Co., Ltd. (formerly Mediapuff Plus) is pledged as collateral for the investee’s borrowings.

As of December 31, 2010, KT Capital has an agreement with construction developers to provide a loan covering up to (Won)38,000 million when the construction developers cannot redeem the project financing loan for construction at a maturity date due to the unsold apartments. Under the agreement, KT Capital has rights over the unsold apartments as collateral.

As of December 31, 2010, KT Rental media, one of the subsidiaries, provided two blank promissory notes to several financial institutions as collaterals for the performance guarantee.

In accordance with the debt covenant between KT Rental and the creditor group consisting of Korea Development Bank and National Federation of Fisheries Cooperatives, KT Rental should maintain its ratio of net borrowings to EBITA(Earnings Before Interest, Tax and Amortization) less than four as of each fiscal year end and report the calculation details of this ratio to an agent bank within 90 days from each fiscal year end. In case, KT Rental can not fulfill this condition, the creditors group is entitled to demand early repayment.

As of December 31, 2010, KT Music recorded accrued expenses of (Won)1,124 million as it is probable that Fair Trade Committee will impose the penalty due to price fixing among the on-line music service providers.

As of December 31, 2010, Telecop Service Co., Ltd. and KT Linkus Co., Ltd. have the joint responsibility to pay for the liabilities that KT Linkus Co., Ltd. incurred before its spin-off. Also, KTR Co., Ltd. and KT Rental Co., Ltd. have the joint responsibility to pay for the liabilities that KT Rental Co., Ltd. incurred before its spin-off.

19.    Assets and Liabilities denominated in Foreign Currencies

Major assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, are summarized as follows:

 

      2010.12.31      2009.12.31  

(In millions of Korean won

and thousands of foreign currencies)

   Foreign
Currencies
     Korean
Won
     Foreign
Currencies
     Korean
Won
 
        

Cash and cash equivalents

     USD         7,997       (Won) 9,108         USD         24,013       (Won) 28,038   
     JPY         6,271         93         JPY         702         9   
     EUR                         EUR         65         110   
     GBP                         GBP         10         19   

Short-term investment assets

     USD         15,327         17,456         USD         15,327         17,896   

Accounts receivable

     USD         132,658         151,084         USD         150,281         175,468   
     JPY         36,900         516         JPY         78,500         991   
     SDR         5,721         10,098         SDR         15,225         27,767   
     EUR         237         359         EUR         211         353   
     AUD                         AUD         13         14   

Loans receivable

     USD         23,538         26,808         USD         35,769         41,764   

Accounts receivable

     USD         390         444         USD         438         512   

Guarantee deposits paid

     USD                         USD         557         650   

Accounts payable

     USD         103,757         118,168         USD         119,636         139,687   
     JPY         240         3         JPY         9,885         125   

 

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      2010.12.31      2009.12.31  

(In millions of Korean won

and thousands of foreign currencies)

   Foreign
Currencies
     Korean
Won
     Foreign
Currencies
     Korean
Won
 
        
     SDR         4,256         7,512         SDR         8,566         16,841   
     EUR         153         232         EUR         103         172   

Other accounts payable

     USD         2,483         2,827         USD         125         146   
     JPY         238         3         JPY         1,653         21   
     GBP         44         77         GBP         51         96   
     EUR         113         170         EUR                   
     KWD                         KWD         288         483   

Bonds (par value)

     USD         2,230,000         2,539,747         USD         2,130,000         2,486,988   
     JPY         19,500,000         272,431         JPY         19,500,000         246,250   

Long-term borrowings

     USD         61,713         70,355         USD         114,683         133,904   
     JPY         17,314         242         JPY         38,645         488   
     EUR         116         175         EUR                   

Withholdings

     USD                         USD         728         850   

Accrued expenses

     USD         330         376         USD         350         409   
     EUR         39         59         EUR         15         25   

Deposits received

     USD         644         733         USD         14         16   

Others

     USD         1,018         1,159         USD                   

As of December 31, 2010, the Company recognized (Won)65,793 million (2009: (Won)240,925 million) and (Won)31,871 million (2009: (Won)17,893 million) of foreign currency translation gain and loss as non-operating income and expense, respectively.

20.    Common Stock

As of December 31, 2010, the Controlling Company’s number of authorized shares is one billion, and the details of common stock are as follows:

 

     2010.12.31      2009.12.31  
     Number of
outstanding
shares
     Par value
per share
(Korean won)
     Common stock
(In millions of
Korean won)
     Number of
outstanding
shares
     Par value
per share
(Korean won)
     Common stock
(In millions of
Korean won)
 

Common stock 1

     261,111,808       (Won) 5,000       (Won) 1,564,499         261,111,808       (Won) 5,000       (Won) 1,564,499   

 

1 The Controlling Company retired 51,787,959 treasury shares against retained earnings. Therefore, the common stock amount differs from the amount resulting from multiplying the number of shares issued by (Won)5,000 par value per share of common stock.

21.    Treasury Stock

The details in treasury stock owned by the Controlling Company as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, are as follows:

 

     2010.12.31      2009.12.31  

Number of shares

     17,895,964         17,915,340   

Amounts (In millions of Korean won)

   (Won) 955,083       (Won) 956,159   

Treasury stock is expected to be used for stock compensation for the Company’s directors and employees and other purposes.

22.    Share-Based Payments

The Company’s share-based compensation programs include the employee stock options and stock grants. The Company measures and recognizes compensation cost for all share-based payment awards made to employees and directors, including grants of employee stock options and employee stock grants.

 

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The fair value of awards granted that are expected to ultimately vest is recognized as expense over the requisite service periods. The number of options expected to vest equals the total options granted less an estimation of the number of forfeitures expected to occur prior to vesting. The forfeiture rate is calculated based on historical data and is adjusted if actual forfeitures differ significantly from the original estimates. The effect of any change in estimated forfeitures would be recognized through a cumulative adjustment that would be included in compensation cost in the period of the change in estimate.

Stock Options

The Company has granted stock options to its executive officers and directors as of December 31, 2010 in accordance with the stock option plan approved by its board of directors, details of which are as follows:

 

     KT Co.     KT Hitel  
     4th grant     KTF-4th 1     1st grant      2nd grant  

Grant date

   2005.2.4     2005.3.4     2010.8.27      2010.10.14  

Grantee

   Former
executives
    Former
executives and
former outside
directors
    Former
executives
     Former
executives
 

Number of basic allocated shares upon grant

     50,800        92,637        165,923         140,741   

Number of additional shares related to business performance upon grant

     20,000                         

Number of shares expected to be exercised upon grant

     60,792        92,637        165,923         140,741   

Number of settled or forfeited shares

     (10,800     (13,437               

Number of expired shares as of December 31, 2010

                             

Number of settled or forfeited additional shares related to business performance

     (19,847                      

Number of allocated shares as of December 31, 2010

     40,000        79,200        165,923         140,741   

Number of additional shares related to business performance as of December 31, 2010

     3,153                         

Total number of shares as of December 31, 2010

     43,153        79,200        165,923         140,741   

Number of shares expected to be exercised

     43,153        79,200        165,923         140,741   

Fair value per share (in Korean won)

   (Won) 12,322      (Won) 4,328      (Won) 3,435       (Won) 3,332   

Total compensation cost (in millions of Korean won)

   (Won) 531      (Won) 343      (Won) 570       (Won) 469   

Exercise price per share

   (Won) 54,600      (Won) 42,684      (Won) 6,750       (Won) 8,060   

Exercise period

    

 

2007.02.05~

2012.02.04

  

  

   
 
2007.03.05~
2012.03.04
  
  
   

 

2012.08.27~

2015.08.26

  

  

    
 
2012.10.14~
2015.10.13
  
  

Valuation method

    
 
Black-scholes
model
  
  
   
 
Black-scholes
model
  
  
   
 
Black-scholes
model
  
  
    
 
Black-scholes
model
  
  

 

1 The stock options granted to the directors, officers or employees of KTF prior to the merger were converted into KT stock options on June 1, 2009, granting the rights to purchase the stock of KT based on the merger ratio.

Upon exercise, the Company can elect one of the following settlement methods: issuance of new shares, issuance of treasury stock or cash settlement, subject to certain circumstances.

The stock option of KT Hitel is a cash settlement option.

The Company adopted the fair value method to measure compensation costs based on the various valuation assumptions and methods, which are as follows:

 

     KT Co.     KT Hitel  
     4th grant     KTF-4th 1     1st grant     2nd grant  

Risk free interest rate

     4.43     2.78     3.38     3.38

Expected duration(year)

     4.5 ~ 5.5        1.5        3.5        3.5   

Expected volatility

     33.41% ~ 42.13     35.03     59.04     59.04

Expected dividend yield ratio

     5.86     3.54     0.00     0.00

 

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1 The compensation costs for the stock options granted to the directors, officers or employees of KTF were recalculated considering risk-free rate, expected duration and other on the date of the merger.

Of the total compensation costs calculated using the fair value method, the compensation costs recognized for the year ended December 31, 2010 are as follows:

 

     KT Co.      KT Hitel         

(In millions of Korean won)

   4th grant     KTF-4th      1st grant      2nd grant      Total  

Total compensation costs before adjustment

   (Won) 749      (Won) 343       (Won) 689       (Won) 525       (Won) 2,306   

Total compensation costs cancelled

     (218                             (218

Total compensation costs after adjustment

     531        343         689         525         2,088   

Compensation costs recognized in prior periods

     531        343                         874   

Compensation costs recognized in the current period

                    119         56         175   

Compensation costs to be recognized after the current period

                    570         469         1,039   

Other share-based compensation

The Company provided stock grants subject to both the service period and business performance goals.

The fair value of each stock grant awarded was estimated on the date of grant for performance based grants assuming that performance goals will be achieved. The expected term for grants is generally one year. The stock grants are settled with the new shares issued or treasury stock owned by the Company upon vesting. The fair value is based on the market price of the Company’s stock on the grant date. Compensation cost is recognized over the requisite vesting period and adjusted for actual forfeitures before vesting

The details of stocks grants as of December 31, 2010 are as follows:

 

    

4th grant

Grant date

   2010.4.29

Grantee

   CEOs, inside directors, outside directors, executives

Estimated number of shares granted

   142,436 shares

Estimated number of shares to be exercisable

   142,436 shares

Vesting conditions (both conditions required)

  

Service condition: 1 year

Non-market performance condition: achievement of performance

Fair value per option (in Korean won)

   (Won)47,700

Total compensation costs (in Korean won)

   (Won)6,794 million

Estimated exercise date (exercise date)

   During 2011

Valuation method

   Fair value method

Above compensation costs were calculated based on the fair value method and were charged to current operations as follows:

 

(In millions of Korean won)

   4th grant  

Total compensation costs

   (Won) 6,794   

Compensation costs recognized in prior periods

       

Compensation costs recognized in the current period

     6,794   

Compensation costs to be recognized after the current period

       

 

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23.    Retained Earnings

The Commercial Code of the Republic of Korea requires the Controlling Company to appropriate, as a legal reserve, an amount equal to a minimum of 10% of cash dividends paid until such reserve equals 50% of its issued capital stock. The reserve is not available for the payment of cash dividends, but may be transferred to capital stock with the approval of the Controlling Company’s Board of Directors or used to reduce accumulated deficit, if any, with the ratification of the Controlling Company’s majority shareholders.

The Controlling Company appropriates a certain portion of retained earnings, pursuant to a shareholder resolution, as voluntary reserves. These reserves may be reversed and transferred to unappropriated retained earnings through a resolution of shareholders, and may be distributed as dividends after the reversal.

24.    Operating Revenues

Operating revenues for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

(In millions of Korean won)

   2010      2009      2008  

Internet

   (Won) 2,567,001       (Won) 2,448,607       (Won) 2,481,171   

Data communication

     1,309,010         1,313,936         1,335,769   

Fixed-line telephone

     4,269,782         4,696,980         5,199,534   

PCS

     7,083,345         6,646,389         6,424,414   

Goods sold 1

     4,395,230         3,396,886         3,065,858   

Other operating revenues 2

     1,706,945         1,141,014         1,080,496   
                          

Operating revenues

   (Won) 21,331,313       (Won) 19,643,812       (Won) 19,587,242   
                          

 

1 Goods sold represent revenue from the sale of handsets and others.

 

2 Revenues from the system integration and real estate are included.

Details of construction contracts, related to the other operating revenue, as of December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

    2010  

(In millions of Korean won

and us dollars in thousands)

  Beginning
contract
balance
    Increase     Change in
contracts
    Recognized as
revenue
    Ending
contract
balance
 

Bugae-dong, Incheon

  (Won) 4,335      (Won)      (Won)      (Won) (4,335   (Won)   

Sungsu-dong, Seoul (Factory building)

    18,714                      (18,714       

Garak-dong, Seoul (Office building)

    40,733                      (28,905     11,828   

Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (Factory building)

           146,733               (6,417     140,316   

Incheon rural IT facility construction

    2,295                      (1,423     872   

Pyeongtaek Cheongbuk area land development electrical facility construction

    1,130               500        (1,630       

Dang-dong, Gunpo (2)C-1BL apartment IT facility construction Section 4

    2,734                      (355     2,379   

DC link construction between Jindo and Jeju

   

 

USD 82,367

11,436

  

  

   

 


  

  

   

 


  

  

   

 

(USD 25,990

(3,609


   

 

USD 56,377

7,827

  

  

Submarine cable construction between Wando and Chungsando, Jeonnam

           10,255               (1,865     8,390   

Test solar concentrator

           1,182               (1,182       

Buoy installation

           871               (871       

Ocean Bottom Seismometer

           1,016               (1,016       

Others

    439                             439   

APCN2 submarine cable repair work

           USD 1,713               (USD 1,713       
                                       

Total (Korean won)

  (Won) 81,816      (Won) 160,057      (Won) 500      (Won) (70,322   (Won) 172,051   

Total (USD)

    USD 82,367        USD 1,713               (USD 27,703     USD 56,377   
                                       

 

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    2009  

(In millions of Korean won

and us dollars in thousands)

  Beginning
contract
balance
    Increase     Change in
contracts
    Recognized as
revenue
    Ending
contract
balance
 

Bugae-dong, Incheon

  (Won) 78,872      (Won)      (Won)      (Won) (74,537   (Won) 4,335   

Sungsu-dong, Seoul (Hyundai apartment)

    13,528                      (13,528       

Sungsu-dong, Seoul (Factory building)

    64,477                      (45,763     18,714   

Garak-dong, Seoul (Office building)

           48,873               (8,140     40,733   

Deep ocean water intake and drainage facilities construction

                  716        (716       

Incheon rural IT facility construction

    2,998               224        (927     2,295   

Pyeongtaek Cheongbuk area land development electrical facility construction

           4,113        2,728        (5,711     1,130   

Marine research technical service for DC link construction between Jindo and Jeju

           2,013        (31     (1,982       

DC link construction between Jindo and Jeju

           USD 82,367                      USD 82,367   
           11,436                      11,436   

Dang-dong, Gunpo (2)C-1BL apartment IT facility construction Section4

           2,790               (56     2,734   

Others

    439        421        (20     (401     439   

TPE submarine cable construction

    USD 3,044                      (USD 3,044       

AAG submarine cable repair work

    USD 1,228               USD 790        (USD 2,018       

RJK cable system dismantlement

           USD 1,927        (USD 241     (USD 1,686       

APCN2 submarine cable repair work

           USD 1,953               (USD 1,953       

TPE 3M PLIB construction

           USD 3,595        (USD 154     (USD 3,441       
                                       

Total (Korean won)

  (Won) 160,314      (Won) 69,646      (Won) 3,617      (Won) (151,761   (Won) 81,816   

Total (USD)

    USD 4,272        USD 89,842        USD 395        (USD12,142     USD 82,367   
                                       
    2008  

(In millions of Korean won

and us dollars in thousands)

  Beginning
contract
balance
    Increase     Change in
contracts
    Recognized as
revenue
    Ending
contract
balance
 

Jeongja-dong, Suwon

    279                      (279       

Bugae-dong, Incheon

    157,092                      (78,220     78,872   

Sungsu-dong, Seoul (Hyundai apartment)

    63,836                      (50,308     13,528   

Sungsu-dong, Seoul (Factory building)

           64,689               (212     64,477   

NAIMS system construction work/ Cable raising and laying

    714               80        (794       

Deep ocean water intake and drainage facilities construction

           13,850               (13,850       

Incheon rural IT facility construction

           3,631               (633     2,998   

Electrical facility construction Section 1 in Highway between busan- and Ulsan

           2,446        830        (3,276       

Maintenance of HVDC submarine cable, construction of protecting facilities for remained section

           852        81        (933       

Others

           1,735        13        (1,309     439   

TPE submarine cable construction

    USD 11,022               USD 14,096        USD (22,074     USD 3,044   

KOC submarine cable construction

    USD 1,151                      USD (1,151       

AAG submarine cable construction

           USD 8,900        USD 722        USD (9,622       

AAG submarine cable repair work

           USD 2,761               USD (1,533     USD 1,228   

JAKABARE cable system PLGR work

           USD 1,215               USD (1,215       
                                       

Total(Korean won)

  (Won) 221,921      (Won) 87,203      (Won) 1,004      (Won) (149,814   (Won) 160,314   

Total(USD)

    USD 12,173        USD 12,876        USD 14,818        (USD 35,595     USD 4,272   
                                       

 

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During the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, the changes in remaining contract balance of major system integration business included in other operating revenue are as follows:

 

      2010  

(In millions of Korean won)

   Beginning
contract balance
     Increase      Recognized
as revenue
    Ending
contract balance
 

Lease type private investment of advanced U-City broadband information network CCTV Construction, Ansan

   (Won) 2,043       (Won)       (Won) (2,043   (Won)   

Construction of information highway, Busan

     11,393                 (346     11,047   

Construction and support for infrastructure and service operation of digital textbook research school

     68                 (68       

Second phase construction of national defense transportation information system

     5,587                 (2,568     3,019   

System integration of SMRT Mall IT and advertising facility construction in Seoul Metropolitan Rapid Transit Corporation

             69,759         (61,409     8,350   

Management and operation of SMRT Mall business

             82,000         (4,762     77,238   
                                  

Total

   (Won) 19,091       (Won) 151,759       (Won) (71,196   (Won) 99,654   
                                  

 

     2009  

(In millions of Korean won)

   Beginning
contract balance
     Increase      Recognized
as revenue
    Ending
contract balance
 

Lease type private investment of advanced U-City broadband information network CCTV Construction, Ansan

   (Won)       (Won) 13,116       (Won) (11,073   (Won) 2,043   

Construction of information highway, Busan

     12,612                 (1,219     11,393   

Construction and support for infrastructure and service operation of digital textbook research school

             9,727         (9,659     68   

Second phase construction of national defense transportation information system

             7,973         (2,386     5,587   
                                  

Total

   (Won) 12,612       (Won) 30,816       (Won) (24,337   (Won) 19,091   
                                  
      2008  

(In millions of Korean won)

   Beginning
contract balance
     Increase      Recognized
as revenue
    Ending
contract balance
 

Construction of information highway, Busan

     22,781                 (10,169     12,612   

Construction of U-City, Hwaseong Dongtan

     423                 (423       

Extension of combined Wireless communications, The National Emergency Management Agency’s

     115                 (115       

Second phase in the Establishment of system, National Health Service’s IP customer services

     7,808                 (7,808       

Construction of Frequency resource analysis system

     1,603                 (1,603       

Second phase in the construction of U-City, Hwaseong Dongtan

             9,883         (9,883       

Adoption of Navy’s main computer system-08

             8,951         (8,951       
                                  

Total

   (Won) 32,730       (Won) 18,834       (Won) (38,952   (Won) 12,612   
                                  

 

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25.    Operating Expenses

Operating expenses for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

(In millions of Korean won)

   2010     2009     2008  

Salaries and wages

   (Won) 2,162,812      (Won) 2,192,935      (Won) 2,267,967   

Provision for severance benefits

     242,770        1,128,352        360,968   

Employee welfare

     374,300        587,011        565,738   

Utilities

     254,085        250,664        248,777   

Taxes and dues

     240,050        207,234        269,168   

Rent

     278,049        257,405        249,101   

Depreciation

     2,819,639        2,873,831        3,213,917   

Amortization

     360,044        402,792        410,458   

Repairs and maintenance

     551,389        500,203        580,333   

Commissions

     1,450,286        1,261,852        1,353,903   

Advertising

     195,759        182,032        221,754   

Research

     268,802        239,508        235,508   

Interconnection charges

     1,245,451        1,227,088        1,234,473   

Cost of services

     804,108        581,762        525,948   

International call settlement

     284,849        263,749        263,464   

Cost of goods sold

     4,086,813        3,118,512        2,364,669   

Promotion

     1,227,632        1,121,880        1,080,089   

Sales commission

     1,621,430        1,804,583        2,129,675   

Provision for doubtful accounts

     171,195        103,852        147,190   

Other

     569,764        406,289        461,524   
                        

Total

     19,209,227        18,711,534        18,184,624   

Less : Transfer to other accounts

     (52,996     (38,269     (40,197
                        

Net

   (Won) 19,156,231      (Won) 18,673,265      (Won) 18,144,427   
                        

26.    Income Tax Expense

Income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, consists of:

The components of income tax expense

 

(In millions of Korean won)

   2010     2009     2008  

Current income tax expense

   (Won) 354,525      (Won) 144,272      (Won) 294,620   

Changes in deferred income tax assets and liabilities related to temporary differences

     (75,344     (28,985     (74,116

Changes in deferred income tax assets and liabilities related to tax credits

     80,328        (38,020     (59,547

Changes in deferred income tax assets and liabilities directly reflected in shareholders’ equity

     8,925        1,044        3,000   

Income tax expense directly added to shareholders’ equity

     94               31,539        50   

Others

               3,315        (2,087              3,852   
                        

Income tax expense

   (Won) 371,843      (Won) 107,763      (Won) 167,859   
                        

Deferred tax assets and liabilities directly reflected in shareholders’ equity

 

(In millions of Korean won)

   2010     2009        

Gain on valuation of available-for-sale securities

   (Won) (2,519   (Won) (2,023  

Loss on valuation of available-for-sale securities

     177        14     

Increase in equity of associates

     (438     (252  

Decrease in equity of associates

     7,606        1,386     

Gain and loss on valuation of derivatives

     10,458        530     

Other capital adjustments

     (5,443     1,261     
                  

Total

   (Won) 9,841      (Won) 916     
                  

 

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A reconciliation of the income tax expense and the income before income tax expense

 

(In millions of Korean won)

   2010     2009     2008  

Income before income tax expense

     (Won) 1,561,773        (Won) 719,275        (Won) 710,176   
                              

Expected tax expense at statutory tax rate

     (Won) 395,533        (Won) 174,064        (Won) 195,285   

Differences

            

Non-taxable benefit

     (4,750       (4,473           

Non-deductible expense

     29,874          27,147          25,412     

Impact of not recording deferred taxes on

certain temporary differences

     (5,631       4,507          83,892     

Changes in tax adjustment, additional income tax and tax refund for prior periods

     8,678          12,758          (4,377  

Tax credit carryforwards and deductions

     (54,658       (110,969       (203,070  

Changes in tax rates

     7,023          3,194          72,839     

Others, net

     (4,226     (23,690     1,535        (66,301     (2,122     (27,426
                                                

Income tax expense

     (Won) 371,843        (Won) 107,763        (Won) 167,859   
                              

Effective tax rate

       23.8       14.98       23.64
                              

Deferred tax assets and liabilities from the tax effects of temporary differences, including available tax credit carryforwards

 

      2010  
     Temporary Differences     Deferred Income Tax
Assets (Liabilities)
 

(In millions of Korean won)

   Beginning
Balance
    Increase
(Decrease)
    Ending
Balance
    Beginning
Balance
    Ending
Balance
 

Deferred tax arising from temporary differences

          

Deferred tax arising from temporary differences

          

Allowance for doubtful accounts

   (Won) 511,003      (Won) 31,972      (Won) 542,975      (Won) 122,873      (Won) 126,675   

Derivatives

     (132,351     (3,564     (135,915     (27,959     (30,583

Inventory valuation reserve

            4,656        4,656               1,125   

Available-for-sale securities

     41,606        (4,338     37,268        9,154        8,495   

Equity method investments

     58,035        44,169        102,204        12,773        22,513   

Depreciation

     101,206        61,589        162,795        22,265        35,471   

Contribution for construction

     178,624        (35,782     142,842        39,297        31,202   

Inventories

     6,633        (5,431     1,202        1,174        291   

Accrued expenses

     140,169        222,531        362,700        33,918        87,997   

Provisions

     58,338        92,485        150,823        13,919        34,176   

Provision for severance indemnities

     1,157,978        (302,469     855,509        254,760        188,409   

Refundable deposits for telephone installation

     43,677        (1,484     42,193        9,609        9,283   

Accrued revenues

     (7,657     4,288        (3,369     (1,855     (818

Deposits for severance benefits

     (1,136,144     290,344        (845,800     (250,007     (186,019

Reserve for technology and human resource development

            (3,900     (3,900            (858

Others

     935,826        (44,719     891,107        217,541        212,448   

Tax loss carryforwards

     281,201        (15,054     266,147        61,882        60,999   
                                        

Total

     2,238,144        335,293        2,573,437        519,344        600,806   

Not recognized as deferred income tax assets

     (623,401     (26,636     (650,037     (138,740     (144,858
                                        

Recognized as deferred income tax assets

   (Won) 1,614,743      (Won) 308,657      (Won) 1,923,400        380,604        455,948   
                                        

Deferred tax assets arising from the carryforwards

          

Total tax credit carryforwards

   (Won) 195,983      (Won) (89,372   (Won) 106,611        195,983        88,794   

Not recognized as deferred income tax assets

     (26,861     18,910        (7,951     (26,861       
                                        

Recognized as deferred income tax assets

   (Won) 169,122      (Won) (70,462   (Won) 98,660        169,122        88,794   
                                        

Net deferred income tax assets

         (Won) 549,725      (Won) 544,742   
                      

Current deferred income tax assets

         (Won) 437,525      (Won) 363,492   

Non-current deferred income tax assets

           113,266        185,724   

Current deferred income tax liabilities

           (1     (1,817

Non-current deferred income tax liabilities

           (1,065     (2,657

 

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      2009  
     Temporary Differences     Deferred Income Tax
Assets (Liabilities)
 

(in millions of Korean won)

   Beginning
Balance
    Increase
(Decrease)
    Ending
Balance
    Beginning
Balance
    Ending
Balance
 

Deferred tax arising

from temporary differences

          

Allowance for doubtful accounts

   (Won) 497,672      (Won) 13,331      (Won) 511,003      (Won) 119,855      (Won) 122,873   

Derivatives

     (479,015     346,664        (132,351     (108,503     (27,959

Available-for-sale securities

     39,337        2,269        41,606        8,840        9,154   

Equity method investment securities

     1,455,549        (1,397,514     58,035        320,220        12,773   

Depreciation

     (23,595     124,801        101,206        (5,191     22,265   

Contribution for construction

     233,106        (54,482     178,624        51,283        39,297   

Inventories

     20,392        (13,759     6,633        4,543        1,174   

Accrued expenses

     222,590        (82,421     140,169        53,825        33,918   

Provisions

     182,556        (124,218     58,338        43,422        13,919   

Provision for severance indemnities

     1,152,303        5,675        1,157,978        253,508        254,760   

Refundable deposits for telephone installation

     50,932        (7,255     43,677        11,205        9,609   

Accrued revenues

     (11,652     3,995        (7,657     (2,798     (1,855

Deposits for severance benefits

     (1,111,846     (24,298     (1,136,144     (244,640     (250,007

Reserve for technology and human resource development

     (106,667     106,667               (25,813       

Others

     1,140,412        (204,586     935,826        256,236        217,541   

Tax loss carryforwards

     223,560        57,641        281,201        49,183        61,882   
                                        

Total

     3,485,634      (Won) (1,247,490     2,238,144        785,175        519,344   
                

Not recognized as deferred income tax assets

     (1,962,652       (623,401     (433,556     (138,740
                                  

Recognized as deferred income tax assets

   (Won) 1,522,982        (Won) 1,614,743      (Won) 351,619      (Won) 380,604   
                                  

Deferred tax assets

arising from the carryforwards

          

Total tax credit carryforwards

   (Won) 153,193      (Won) 42,790      (Won) 195,983        153,193        195,983   

Not recognized as deferred income tax assets

     (22,091       (26,861     (22,091     (26,861
                                  

Recognized as deferred income tax assets

   (Won) 131,102        (Won) 169,122        131,102        169,122   
                                  

Net deferred income tax assets

         (Won) 482,721      (Won) 549,725   
                      

Current deferred income tax assets

         (Won) 249,941      (Won) 437,525   

Non-current deferred income tax assets

           235,514        113,266   

Current deferred income tax liabilities

                  (1

Non-current deferred income tax liabilities

           (2,734     (1,065

The possibility of realization on deferred tax asset depends on many factors, such as the Company’s ability, overall economic environment, and industry prospects, within the realization period of temporary differences. The Company assesses such factors periodically, and recognizes the deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2010, as all deductable temporary differences are considered realizable. However, the Company did not recognize the income tax assets resulting from the net operating loss carryforwards and equity-method investments to the extent the Company does not expect the related temporary differences to be reversed within the foreseeable future.

 

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27.    Income From Discontinued Operations

Doremi Media Co., Ltd is excluded from the consolidation as of December 31, 2010. The net income (loss) of Doremi Media and other subsidiaries for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 are reclassified into income (loss) from discontinued operations, as follows:

 

    2010     2009     2008  

(in millions of Korean won)

  Doremi
Media
    Doremi
Media
    Olive
Nine
    KT FDS     Total     Doremi
Media
    Olive
Nine
    KT FDS     Total  

Book Value

                 

Assets of discontinued operations

  (Won)      (Won) 8,026      (Won)      (Won)      (Won) 8,026      (Won) 10,375      (Won) 43,666      (Won) 9,292      (Won) 63,333   
                                                                       

Liabilities of discontinued operations

           8,409                      8,409        8,676        29,453        9,132        47,261   
                                                                       

Income (loss) from discontinued operations

                 

Operating and non-operating loss

  (Won) (574   (Won) (4,212   (Won) (7,432   (Won) (3,911   (Won) (15,555   (Won) (2,980   (Won) (22,600   (Won) (3,447   (Won) (29,027

Gain on disposal of discontinued operations

    3,186               4,035        4,246        8,281                               

Tax effect

                  4,305        1,152        5,457                               
                                                                       

Income (loss) from discontinued operations

  (Won) 2,612      (Won) (4,212   (Won) 908      (Won) 1,487      (Won) (1,817   (Won) (2,980   (Won) (22,600   (Won) (3,447   (Won) (29,027
                                                                       

The consolidated statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 have been retrospectively adjusted for discontinued operations.

28.    Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive income for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 consists of:

 

(in millions of Korean won)

   2010     2009     2008  

Net income

   (Won) 1,192,542      (Won) 609,695      (Won) 513,290   

Other comprehensive income

      

Cumulative effect of changes in accounting policies

                   3,852   

Gain on valuation of available-for-sale securities

     2,816        (113     (8,939

Loss on valuation of available-for-sale securities

     (748     7,687        (7,545

Changes in equity-method investees with accumulated comprehensive income

     85        (10,204     9,954   

Changes in equity-method investees with accumulated comprehensive expense

     7,820        (10,138     961   

Gain on valuation of financial derivatives

     (6,769     486        9,374   

Loss on valuation of financial derivatives

     (28,384     (26,223     (18,370

Gain on translation of foreign operations

     6,885        (8,642     13,559   

Loss on translation of foreign operations

     (23,198     (18,656     11,779   
                        

Comprehensive income

   (Won) 1,151,049      (Won) 543,892      (Won) 527,915   
                        

Attributable to : Equity holders of the parent

   (Won) 1,129,900      (Won) 439,425      (Won) 462,258   

Minority interests

     21,149        104,467        65,657   

29.    Earnings Per Share

Basic and diluted earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

Basic earnings per share from continuing operations

 

(in millions of Korean won, except for per share amounts)

   2010      2009      2008  

Income from continuing operations attributable to common shares

   (Won) 1,166,733       (Won) 488,517       (Won) 470,540   

Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding

     243,207,149         219,512,696         202,891,015   

Basic earnings per share from continuing operations

   (Won) 4,797       (Won) 2,225       (Won) 2,319   

 

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Basic earnings per share from discontinued operations

 

(in millions of Korean won, except for per share amounts)

   2010      2009      2008  

Income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to common shares

   (Won) 1,272       (Won) 6,329       (Won) (20,730

Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding

     243,207,149         219,512,696         202,891,015   

Basic earnings per share from discontinued operations

   (Won) 5       (Won) 29       (Won) (102

Basic earnings per share

 

(in millions of Korean won, except for per share amounts)

   2010      2009      2008  

Net income attributable to common stock

   (Won) 1,168,005       (Won) 494,846       (Won) 449,810   

Weighted-average number of common stock outstanding

     243,207,149         219,512,696         202,891,015   

Basic earnings per share

   (Won) 4,803       (Won) 2,254       (Won) 2,217   

Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding is adjusted to reflect weighted-average number of treasury stock for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008.

Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations

 

(in millions of Korean won, except for per share amounts)

   2010      2009      2008  

Income from continuing operations attributable to common stock

   (Won) 1,166,733       (Won) 488,517       (Won) 470,540   

Exchangeable bond interest

             4,395           

Adjusted income from continuing operations

     1,166,733         492,912         470,540   

Dilutive potential common shares outstanding

     18,081         4,655,062           

Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding and dilutive common shares

     243,225,230         224,167,758         202,891,015   

Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations

   (Won) 4,797       (Won) 2,199       (Won) 2,319   

Diluted earnings per share from discontinued operations

 

(in millions of Korean won, except for per share amounts)

   2010      2009      2008  

Net income from discontinued operations attributable to common stock

   (Won) 1,272       (Won) 6,329       (Won) (20,730

Adjusted income (loss) from discontinued operations

   (Won) 1,272       (Won) 6,329       (Won) (20,730

Dilutive potential common shares outstanding

     18,081         4,655,062           

Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding and dilutive common shares

     243,225,230         224,167,758         202,891,015   

Diluted earnings per share from discontinued operations

   (Won) 5       (Won) 28       (Won) (102

Diluted earnings per share

 

(in millions of Korean won, except for per share amounts)

   2010      2009      2008  

Net income attributable to common stock

   (Won) 1,168,005       (Won) 494,846       (Won) 449,810   

Exchangeable bond interest

             4,395           

Adjusted net income attributable to common stock

     1,168,005         499,241         449,810   

Dilutive potential common shares outstanding

     18,081         4,655,062           

Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding and dilutive common shares

     243,225,230         224,167,758         202,891,015   

Diluted earnings per share

   (Won) 4,802       (Won) 2,227       (Won) 2,217   

Diluted net income per share is calculated by dividing adjusted net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding and dilutive common shares. Stock options and other share-based payments, which have no dilutive effect for each reporting period, are excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share.

 

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Potential common shares as of December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

     Par
Value
   

Issue
Date

 

Maturity Date

 

Exercisable Period

  Common shares to be issued  
                       2010.12.31     2009.12.31     2008.12.31  

Stock options

    1      Dec. 26, 2002   Dec. 26, 2009   From 2 years after grant date until maturity date                   371,632   

Stock options

    1      Sept. 16, 2003   Sept. 16, 2010   From 2 years after grant date until maturity date            3,000        3,000   

Stock options

    2      Feb. 4, 2005   Feb. 4, 2012   Increase in the number of exercisable shares by 1/3 every year after two years from grant date     43,153        43,153        43,153   

Stock options

    3      March 25, 2002   March 25, 2010   From 3 years after grant date until maturity date            20,570          

Stock options

    4      Sept. 8, 2003   Sept. 8, 2010   From 2 years after grant date until maturity date            219,909          

Stock options

    5      March 4, 2005   March 4, 2012   From 2 years after grant date until maturity date     79,200        79,200          

Other share-based payment

    6      June 20, 2007   Exercised in first half of 2010  

On maturity date, subject to the

resolution of board of directors

           11,790          

Other share-based payment

    6      March 27, 2008   Exercised in first half of 2010  

On maturity date, subject to the

resolution of board of directors

           13,345        29,481   

Other share-based payment

    6      May 7, 2009   Exercised in first half of 2010  

On maturity date, subject to the

resolution of board of directors

           29,055          

Other share-based payment

    6      April 29, 2010   Expected to be exercised in 2011  

On maturity date, subject to the

resolution of board of directors

    142,436                 
                               

Total

            264,789        420,022        447,266   
                               

 

1 Exercise price of (Won)57,000 per common share.

 

2 Exercise price of (Won)54,600 per common share.

 

3 Exercise price of (Won)62,814 per common share.

 

4 Exercise price of (Won)41,711 per common share.

 

5 Exercise price of (Won)42,684 per common share.

 

6 Shares to be given subject to performance.

30.     Dividends

The details of dividends for common stocks included in the Controlling Company’s non-consolidated statements of appropriations of retained earnings for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Number of shares eligible for dividends

     243,215,844        243,196,468        202,035,296   

Dividend rate

     48.2     40.0     22.4

Dividend amount (in millions of Korean won)

   (Won) 586,150      (Won) 486,393      (Won) 226,280   

Payout ratio (Dividend / Net income)

     50.20     98.29     50.31

Dividend yield ratio (Dividend Per Share / Stock price at year end)

     5.21     5.12     2.99

 

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31.     Supplemental Cash Flows Information

The cash and cash equivalents stated on statements of cash flows are the same amount of cash and cash equivalents less government grants on statements of financial position.

Significant transactions not affecting cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

(in millions of Korean won)

   2010      2009      2008  

Reclassification of the current portion of bonds payable

   (Won) 1,925,773       (Won) 1,539,203       (Won) 1,311,944   

Reclassification of construction-in-progress to property and equipment

     2,379,598         2,246,210         3,080,337   

Acquisition of equity-method investments through issuance of exchangeable bond

             319,160           

Reissuance of treasury stock in exchange of exchangeable bonds

             451,157           

32.     Related Party Transactions

The list of subsidiaries of the Company as of December 31, 2010 is as follows:

 

Type of control

  

Subsidiaries

Ultimate Controlling Company

   KT Co.

Direct control

   KT Hitel, KT Submarine Co., KT Networks Corporation, KT Powertel, KT Linkus Co., KT Telecop Co., Ltd., KT Rental, KT Capital, Sidus FNH Co., Ltd., KTDS, Nasmedia, Inc., KT Edui Co., Ltd. (formerly “JungBoPremiumEdu Co., Ltd.”), Sofnics Inc., KT Tech, KT M Hows, KT M&S, KT Msusic, KT Innotz Inc., KT Estate Inc., KT Internal Venture Fund No.2, Sidus FNH Benex Cinema Investment Fund (formerly “Sidus FNH Benex Cinema Investment Fund”), KT New Business Fund No.1, KT Capital Media Contents Fund No.2, Gyeonggi-KT Green Growth Fund, KT Strategic Investment Fund No.1, Korea Telecom America, Inc., New Telephone Company Inc., Korea Telecom Japan Co., Ltd., Korea Telecom China Co., Ltd., KTSC Investment Management B.V., PT. KT Indonesia

Indirect control through KT Hitel

   KT Commerce Inc.

Indirect control through KT Capital

   Vanguard Private Equity Fund, KTC Media Contents Fund 1, KT-LIG ACE Private Equity Fund Co., Ltd.

Indirect control through KT Rental

   KTR

Indirect control through KTSC
Investment Management B.V.

   East Telecom and Super iMax

Indirect control through NTSC

   Helios TV and Novaya Svyaz

 

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The Controlling Company’s significant transactions and balances with subsidiaries as of December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 and for the years then ended are as follows:

 

(in millions of Korean won)

   Operating
Revenue
     Operating
Expense
     Receivables      Payables  

KT Powertel Co., Ltd.

   (Won) 15,287       (Won) 3,773       (Won) 957       (Won) 1,259   

KT Networks Corporation

     64,347         119,356         8,133         53,280   

KT Telecop Co., Ltd.

     12,336         48,727         426         18,439   

KT Hitel Co., Ltd.

     10,197         67,777         753         38,147   

KT Tech, Inc.

     1,296         312,244         159         92,300   

KTR Co., Ltd.

     4,802         11,982         2         66,795   

KT Rental Co., Ltd.

     9,783         36,615         61         7,409   

KT Capital Co., Ltd.

     80         4,992         7         47,379   

KTDS

     10,137         335,534         4,532         97,465   

KT M&S Co., Ltd.

     656,631         137,673         16,029         54,380   

Others

     34,623         252,119         5,234         36,087   
                                   

2010 Total

   (Won) 819,519       (Won) 1,330,792       (Won) 36,293       (Won) 512,940   
                                   

2009 Total

   (Won) 594,026       (Won) 1,217,351       (Won) 63,120       (Won) 453,338   
                                   

2008 Total

   (Won) 528,311       (Won) 1,263,863       (Won) 68,654       (Won) 435,501   
                                   

Significant balances and transactions among the subsidiaries as of December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 and for the years then ended are as follows:

 

(in millions of Korean won)

   Receivables and
Payables
     Operating Revenue and
Expense
 

2010 Total

   (Won) 120,745       (Won) 75,085   
                 

2009 Total

   (Won) 121,528       (Won) 502,106   
                 

2008 Total

   (Won) 157,327       (Won) 1,115,712   
                 

The Controlling Company’s significant transactions and balances with equity-method investees as of December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 and for the years then ended are as follows:

 

(in millions of Korean won)

   2010      2009      2008  

Operating Revenue

   (Won) 164,778       (Won) 122,036       (Won) 118,269   

Operating Expense

     905,504         668,979         585,555   

Receivables

     15,530         11,140         9,031   

Payables

     142,015         89,290         100,824   

Details of the Controlling Company’s ownership in the related parties, acquisition cost, fair value (or net asset) and book values are in Note 2 and Note 8.

Key management compensation for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 consists of:

 

(in millions of Korean won)

   2010      2009      2008     

Description

Benefits

   (Won) 33,744       (Won) 17,068       (Won) 20,203      

Salaries, bonuses, other allowances, retirement benefits, medical benefits and others

Compensation expenses

     6,794         1,052         1,420      

Compensation expenses associated with stock options, stock grants

                             

Total

   (Won) 40,538       (Won) 18,120       (Won) 21,623      
                             

 

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Key management consists of vice presidents and higher positions, who have the authority and responsibility for planning, operation and control and are in charge of a business unit or division, and non-permanent directors.

33.    Segment Information

The Company’s operating segments are as follows:

 

Details

  

Business service

Personal Customer Group (“Personal”)

   Personal customers using PCS and WiBro

Home Customer Group (“Home”) Enterprise Customer Group (“Enterprise”)

   Telephone, internet, data and others

Others

   Global, real estate, and others

Details of each segment for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, are as follows:

 

    2010  
    Personal     Home/
Enterprise
    Others     Total     Elimination     Consolidated
amount
 

Operating revenues

  (Won) 10,387,800      (Won) 9,845,716      (Won) 3,346,111      (Won) 23,579,627      (Won) (2,248,314   (Won) 21,331,313   

Operating income

    1,477,844        575,453        149,391        2,202,688        (27,606     2,175,082   

Depreciation and Amortization

    928,600        1,985,755        256,632        3,170,987        7,414        3,178,401   

Property and equipment and Intangible assets

    4,700,790        10,385,029        1,324,175        16,409,994        50,730        16,460,724   
    2009  
    Personal     Home/
Enterprise
    Others     Total     Elimination     Consolidated
amount
 

Operating revenues

  (Won) 9,313,751      (Won) 10,108,769      (Won) 2,423,569      (Won) 21,846,089      (Won) (2,202,277   (Won) 19,643,812   

Operating income

    1,040,025        (44,044     (4,742     991,239        (20,692     970,547   

Depreciation and Amortization

    1,013,685        2,054,897        199,853        3,268,435        7,374        3,275,809   

Property and equipment and Intangible assets

    4,757,330        10,653,089        619,465        16,029,884        24,176        16,054,060   
    2008  
    Personal     Home/
Enterprise
    Others     Total     Elimination     Consolidated
amount
 

Operating revenues

  (Won) 8,346,220      (Won) 11,784,835      (Won) 2,353,821      (Won) 22,484,876      (Won) (2,897,634   (Won) 19,587,242   

Operating income

    454,381        1,113,389        28,944        1,596,714        (153,899     1,442,815   

Depreciation and Amortization

    1,117,879        2,205,496        158,399        3,481,774        142,601        3,624,375   

Property and equipment and Intangible assets

    4,937,833        10,825,720        660,152        16,423,705        239,164        16,662,869   

 

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Information by Industry for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009 is as follows:

Assets and liabilities by industry as of December 31, 2010 and 2009

 

     2010      2009  
     Non-financial      Financial      Consolidated
amount
     Non-financial      Financial      Consolidated
amount
 

Assets

                 

Current assets

                 

Quick assets

   (Won) 6,433,581       (Won) 983,219       (Won) 7,416,800       (Won) 6,587,387       (Won) 685,060       (Won) 7,272,447   

Inventories

     655,831                 655,831         699,402                 699,402   
                                                     

Sub-total

     7,089,412         983,219         8,072,631         7,286,789         685,060         7,971,849   
                                                     

Non-current assets

                 

Investments

     696,623         86,568         783,191         512,953         48,417         561,370   

Property and equipment

     15,185,606         42,252         15,227,858         14,750,631         23,929         14,774,560   

Intangible assets

     1,232,395         471         1,232,866         1,279,236         264         1,279,500   

Other

     1,597,541         799,372         2,396,913         1,352,597         680,441         2,033,038   
                                                     

Sub-total

     18,712,165         928,663         19,640,828         17,895,417         753,051         18,648,468   
                                                     

Total assets

   (Won) 25,801,577       (Won) 1,911,882       (Won) 27,713,459       (Won) 25,182,206       (Won) 1,438,111       (Won) 26,620,317   
                                                     

Liabilities

                 

Current liabilities

   (Won) 7,053,092       (Won) 376,538       (Won) 7,429,630       (Won) 6,145,841       (Won) 795,382       (Won) 6,941,223   

Non-current liabilities

     7,326,898         1,461,259         8,788,157         8,423,158         588,497         9,011,655   
                                                     

Total liabilities

   (Won) 14,379,990       (Won) 1,837,797       (Won) 16,217,787       (Won) 14,568,999       (Won) 1,383,879       (Won) 15,952,878   
                                                     

Results of operations by industry for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

 

     2010  
     Non-financial      Financial      Consolidated
amount
 

Operating revenues

   (Won) 21,165,515       (Won) 165,798       (Won) 21,331,313   

Operating expenses

     19,016,819         139,412         19,156,231   
                          

Operating income

     2,148,696         26,386         2,175,082   

Non-operating revenues

     522,722         95         522,817   

Non-operating expenses

     1,136,118         8         1,136,126   
                          

Income from continuing operations before income tax

     1,535,300         26,473         1,561,773   

Income tax on continuing operations

     363,157         8,686         371,843   
                          

Income from continuing operations

     1,172,143         17,787         1,189,930   

Income (loss) from discontinued operations

     2,612                 2,612   
                          

Net income

   (Won) 1,174,755       (Won) 17,787       (Won) 1,192,542   
                          

 

     2009  
     Non-financial     Financial      Consolidated
amount
 

Operating revenues

   (Won) 19,508,859      (Won) 134,953       (Won) 19,643,812   

Operating expenses

     18,555,188        118,077         18,673,265   
                         

Operating income

     953,671        16,876         970,547   

Non-operating revenues

     806,521        970         807,491   

Non-operating expenses

     1,058,757        6         1,058,763   
                         

Income from continuing operations before income tax

     701,435        17,840         719,275   

Income tax on continuing operations

     101,863        5,900         107,763   
                         

Income from continuing operations

     599,572        11,940         611,512   

Income (loss) from discontinued operations

     (1,817             (1,817
                         

Net income

   (Won) 597,755      (Won) 11,940       (Won) 609,695   
                         

 

 

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     2008  
     Non-financial     Financial      Consolidated
amount
 

Operating revenues

   (Won) 19,478,880      (Won) 108,362       (Won) 19,587,242   

Operating expenses

     18,039,553        104,874         18,144,427   
                         

Operating income

     1,439,327        3,488         1,442,815   

Non-operating revenues

     1,050,331        22         1,050,353   

Non-operating expenses

     1,782,921        71         1,782,992   
                         

Income from continuing operations before income tax

     706,737        3,439         710,176   

Income tax on continuing operations

     166,419        1,440         167,859   
                         

Income from continuing operations

     540,318        1,999         542,317   

Income (loss) from discontinued operations

     (29,027             (29,027
                         

Net income

   (Won) 511,291      (Won) 1,999       (Won) 513,290   
                         

34.    Employee Welfare

Cost on the various employee welfare programs of the Company for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 totaled (Won)374,300 million, (Won)587,011 million and (Won)565,738 million, respectively.

35.    Subsequent Events

Subsequent to December 31, 2010, the Controlling Company has issued the unsecured public bonds as follows:

 

(in thousands)

  Issue
Date
    Par Value    

Interest

Rate

  Maturity
Date
   

Repayment Method

USD denominated unsecured public bond (178-1st) with floating rate

    2011.1.11      USD 100,000      Libor(3M) + 1.00%     2013.1.18      Lump sum repayment at maturity

USD denominated unsecured public bond (178-2nd) with floating rate

    2011.1.11      USD 100,000      Libor(3M) + 1.05%     2014.1.17      Lump sum repayment at maturity

JPY denominated foreign public bond

    2011.1.20      JPY 35,000,000      1.58%     2013.1.25      Lump sum repayment at maturity

Unsecured public bond (179t)

    2011.3.29      (Won) 260,000      4.47%     2018.3.29      Lump sum repayment at maturity

Unsecured public bond (180-1st)

    2011.4.26      (Won) 210,000      4.35%     2016.4.26      Lump sum repayment at maturity

Unsecured public bond (180-2nd)

    2011.4.26      (Won) 380,000      4.71%     2021.4.26      Lump sum repayment at maturity

On January 27, 2011 the Controlling Company acquired from Dutch Savings Holdings B.V 5,600,000 of redeemable convertible preferred stock with voting rights and the bonds convertible into 5,600,000 of common stock of Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting CO., Ltd. for (Won)246,000 million. The accrued interest of (Won)7,969 million are also included in the amount of the convertible bond. Accordingly, the Controlling Company’s ownership in Korea Digital Satellite Broadcasting Co., Ltd. has increased from 32.12% to 46.41%. If the potential voting rights are also considered, the ownership increases to 53.05%.

As approved by the Board of Directors on May 4, 2011, the Company has decided to sell New Telephone Company, Inc. 5,309,189 shares (79.96%) to VIMPEL-COMMUNICATIONS. The selling price is $ 346,628 thousand.

As approved by the Board of Directors on February 3, 2011, KT Capital decided to acquire 1,489,400 of the common stocks of BC Card owned by Shinhan Bank, representing 33.85% of total outstanding shares, for (Won)231,602 million.

 

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KT Rental and KTR merged on March 1, 2011, as approved by the Board of Directors on January 7, 2011.

36.    Merger with KTF

On January 20, 2009, the Controlling Company entered into a merger agreement with KTF, which was subsequently approved by the shareholders on March 27, 2009. On June 1, 2009, the Controlling Company, as the surviving company, merged with KTF.

The Controlling Company issued 0.7192335 share of KT common stock with a par value per share of (Won)5,000 for one share of KTF. However, the Controlling Company did not issue any new common stock for the shares of KTF common stock held by the Controlling Company or for the treasury shares of KTF as of the date of the merger.

Details of merged companies:

 

     

CEO

  

Business

  

Relationship

KT Corporation (KT)

   Lee Suk Chae    Telephone service, new media business, telecommunication products sales and other    Parent

KT Freetel Co., Ltd. (KTF)

   Kwon Haing Min    Mobile telecommunication service and other    Subsidiary

Accounting treatment

As this was a merger between parent and subsidiary, the Controlling Company accounted for the merger using the carrying amounts in its consolidated financial statements and accordingly, the excess of merger consideration given over the carrying amount of net assets acquired was recognized as capital adjustment after offsetting capital surplus, if any, from the similar type of transaction.

 

Decrease in Minority interest (a):

   (Won) (1,553,491)   
        

Changes in equity :

  

Increase in common stock

     3,501   

Decrease in treasury stock

     2,436,659   

Decrease in gain on disposal of treasury stock

     (375

Decrease in accumulated other comprehensive income

     (6,932

Decrease in capital adjustments

     (879,362
        

Sub-total (b) :

     1,553,491   
        

Changes in total equity (a+b):

   (Won)   
        

Goodwill

Changes in goodwill for the year ended December 31, 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

January 1, 2009

   (Won) 195,170   

Amortization

     (130,113
        

December 31, 2009

     65,057   

Amortization

     (65,057
        

December 31, 2010

   (Won)   
        

The above goodwill includes the goodwill arising from the acquisition of KTF shares by KT in stages and the goodwill recorded in the book of KTF prior to the merger of KT and KTF. Goodwill is amortized on a straight-line basis over ten years and, as of June 30, 2010, the goodwill had been fully amortized.

 

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Financial statements of the merged companies

Statements of financial position

 

     KT      KTF  

(in millions of Korean won)

   2009.6.1      2008.12.31      2009.6.1      2008.12.31  

Current assets

   (Won) 4,926,684       (Won) 3,778,105       (Won) 2,716,833       (Won) 2,199,857   

Investment assets

     3,846,019         3,517,906         270,019         396,903   

Property and equipment

     9,932,337         10,428,674         3,919,107         4,165,339   

Intangible assets

     344,330         397,046         783,254         780,242   

Other non-current assets

     503,787         563,191         559,353         513,781   
                                   

Total assets

   (Won) 19,553,157       (Won) 18,684,922       (Won) 8,248,566       (Won) 8,056,122   
                                   

Current liabilities

   (Won) 2,871,186       (Won) 2,585,875       (Won) 2,657,350       (Won) 2,031,871   

Non-current liabilities

     8,274,862         7,267,158         1,282,719         1,658,402   
                                   

Total liabilities

     11,146,048         9,853,033         3,940,069         3,690,273   
                                   

Total equity

     8,407,109         8,831,889         4,308,497         4,365,849   
                                   

Total liabilities and equity

   (Won) 19,553,157       (Won) 18,684,922       (Won) 8,248,566       (Won) 8,056,122   
                                   

Statements of income

 

     KT      KTF  

(in millions of Korean won)

   For the period
from Jan. 1, 2009
to June 1, 2009
     For the year
ended

Dec. 31,  2008
     For the period
from Jan. 1, 2009
to June 1, 2009
     For the year
ended

Dec. 31, 2008
 

Operating revenues

   (Won) 4,662,137       (Won) 11,784,835       (Won) 3,516,358       (Won) 8,346,220   

Operating expenses

     4,078,756         10,671,446         3,131,947         7,891,839   

Non-operating revenues

     329,587         855,289         43,656         201,470   

Non-operating expenses

     372,047         1,408,633         152,858         469,496   

Income tax expense

          105,765         110,235         45,833         21,776   
                                   

Net income

   (Won) 435,156       (Won) 449,810       (Won) 229,376       (Won) 164,579   
                                   

37.     Adoption of K-IFRS

The Controlling Company plans to prepare its financial statements in accordance with K-IFRS starting from the year ending December 31, 2011. Since “the Roadmap to K-IFRS Adoption” has been announced in March 2007, the Controlling Company organized a task force team, conducted training, and analyzed the impact of the adoption of K-IFRS. The Controlling Company has analyzed the key differences and potential impact on financial statements.

 

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Significant differences between the accounting policies chosen by the Controlling Company under K-IFRS and under current generally accepted accounting principles in the Republic of Korean (K-GAAP) are as follows:

 

          K-IFRS   K-GAAP
First time adoption of K-IFRS   Business combination   Not applying IFRS 3 retrospectively to a past business combination   Not available
  Fair value or revaluation as deemed cost   Recognition of fair value in its opening IFRS statement of financial position as deemed cost for an item of property and equipment   Not available
  Borrowing costs   Capitalization of borrowing costs for qualifying assets acquired after the date of transition (January 1, 2010)   Not available
  Decommissioning liabilities included in the cost of property, plant and equipment   Regarding changes in a decommissioning, restoration or similar liability to be added to or deducted from the cost of the asset to which it relates, the Company had not applied the requirements under IFRS for changes in such liabilities that occurred before the date of transition to IFRS(January 1, 2010).   Not available
  Transfers of Assets from Customers   A first-time adopter may apply the transitional provisions set out in paragraph 22 of K-IFRS 2118 ‘Transfers of Assets from Customers’, which provides accounting guidance for the items including cash and property received from the customers that must be used to provide those customers with the related service. In that paragraph, reference to the effective date shall be interpreted as 1 July 2009 or the date of transition to K-IFRS, whichever is later. In addition, a first-time adopter may designate any date before the date of transition to IFRS and apply K-IFRS 2118 to all transfers of assets from customers received on or after that date.   Not available

Initiation fee revenue

  The amount of Initiation fee is deferred and recognized as a part of service revenue over the period during which the service is performed.   The total amount of initiation fee is recognized as revenue when the fee is paid

Real estate revenue

  According to revenue recognition arising from the sale of goods, real estate revenue is recognized at the time of the transfer of the legal title.   Considered as a construction contract, the real estate revenue is recognized on a percentage of completion basis.

Customer Loyalty Programmes

  The sales transaction in which they are granted is allocated to the separately identifiable component. The revenue is deferred and recognized as earned.   The amount of future obligation is recognized as an expense and liability provision at the time of the sale transaction.
Change in scope of consolidated financial statements   Regardless of size of each subsidiary, consolidated financial statements shall include all entities controlled by the parent.   According to “the Act on External Audit of Stock Companies”, Section 1 paragraph 3 item 2, consolidated financial statement shall include all subsidiaries except for the entities of which the total assets as of prior year end were less than (Won)10 billion
Capitalization of borrowing costs   An entity shall capitalize borrowing costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying asset, acquired after the date of transition, as part of the cost of that asset.   All borrowing costs are recognized as expense.

 

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     K-IFRS   K-GAAP

Transfer of financial assets

  Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows from the investments have expired or have been transferred and the Company has transferred substantially all risks and rewards of ownership.   Transfers of financial assets must satisfy the control criteria for the transferred financial assets to be derecognized.

Employee benefits

  For the employees who elect the defined benefit plan, the defined benefit obligations are measured using actuarial method. For the others, the accrued expenses are recognized using actuarial method.   Accrued employee benefits represent the amount which would be payable assuming all eligible employees and directors were to terminate their employment as of the date of statement of financial position. The other employee benefits are recognized when obligations to pay the benefits are determined.

Goodwill

  Goodwill is not amortized, but impairment test is performed annually at the year-end of reporting period, and a bargain purchase is recognized in profit or loss on the acquisition date.   Goodwill recognized at the business combination is amortized using the straight-line method. Negative goodwill(a bargain purchase) is reversed as income when actual loss occurs, or during the period of weighted average useful life of amortizable assets on the straight-line method basis.

Deferred tax

 

Deferred tax assets or liabilities on investments in subsidiaries and associates are recognized by reflecting the tax consequences of each temporary difference.

An entity shall classify all deferred tax assets and liabilities as non-current.

 

Deferred tax assets or liabilities on investments in subsidiaries and associates are recognized by the net amount of temporary differences from each investment.

An entity classifies deferred tax assets and liabilities as current or non-current according to the period in which the temporary differences are reversed.

 

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38.    RECONCILIATION TO UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES

The consolidated financial statements of the Company are prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the Republic of Korea (“Korean GAAP”), which differs in certain significant respects from generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). Application of U.S. GAAP would have affected the consolidated financial position of the company and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 and the related consolidated net income for the three years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 to the extent described below.

A description of the significant differences between Korean GAAP and U.S. GAAP as they relate to the Company are discussed in detail below.

(a) Reconciliation of Net Income from Korean GAAP to U.S. GAAP

 

(in millions of Korean won)

  

Note reference

   2010     2009     2008  

Net income in accordance with Korean GAAP

      (Won) 1,192,542      (Won) 609,695      (Won) 513,290   

Adjustments:

         

Goodwill impairment

   38 (e)             (1,132 )     (13,948

Equity in income of affiliates:

         

Reversal of amortization of goodwill

   38 (e)      93,391        140,169        166,422   

Impairment loss relating to affiliates

   38 (e)                    (9,466

Additional acquisitions of affiliates

   38 (g)      3,094        (23,282 )     6,351   

Intangible assets

   38 (h)      (14,764 )     (14,819 )     (14,329

Property and equipment

   38 (i)      (52,811 )     (44,999 )     (114,744

Interest capitalization (including related depreciation), net

   38 (j)      (1,750 )     (7,238 )     (2,128

Service installation fees

   38 (k)      18,783        232,505        5,865   

Deferred income tax—methodology difference

   38 (l)      (10,496 )     (6,357 )     4,275   

Deferred income tax effects of U.S. GAAP adjustments

   38 (l)      13,008        (34,698 )     (15,228

Capitalized foreign exchange transactions, net

   38 (m)      (299 )     6,473        880   

Loan Impairment

   38 (f)      (22,450 )              

Miscellaneous accounts

   38 (l)      (7,773 )     (16,707 )     35,230   

Noncontrolling interest income

   38 (c) and others      (14,335 )     1,015        10,953   
                           
        3,598      (Won) 230,930      (Won) 60,133   
                           

Net income as adjusted in accordance with U.S. GAAP

      (Won) 1,196,140      (Won) 840,625      (Won) 573,423   
                           

Net income attributable to stockholders

      (Won) 1,185,918      (Won) 741,921      (Won) 518,245   

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest

      (Won) 10,222      (Won) 98,704      (Won) 55,178   
                           

 

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(b) Reconciliation of Total Equity from Korean GAAP to U.S. GAAP

 

(in millions of Korean won)

  

Note reference

   2010     2009  

Total equity in accordance with Korean GAAP

      (Won) 11,495,672      (Won) 10,667,439   

Adjustments:

       

Goodwill impairment

   38 (e)      (28,027 )     (28,027 )

Equity in earnings of affiliates:

       

Reversal of goodwill amortization

   38 (e)      1,235,977        1,152,896   

Impairment loss relating to affiliates

   38 (e)      (1,471,474 )     (1,471,474 )

Additional acquisitions of affiliates

   38 (g)      767,105        764,011   

Different useful life of intangibles

   38 (h)      111,631        111,631   

Intangible assets

   38 (h)      9,098        23,862   

Accumulated depreciation

   38 (i)      (722,575 )     (669,764 )

Interest capitalization, net

   38 (j)      56,706        58,456   

Service installation fees

   38 (k)      (224,465 )     (243,248 )

Deferred tax—methodology difference

   38 (l)      16,011        26,507   

Deferred tax effects of U.S. GAAP adjustments

   38 (l)      169,751        179,986   

Capitalized foreign exchange transactions, net

   38 (m)      3,158        3,457   

Loan Impairment

   38 (f)      (22,450       

Miscellaneous accounts

   38 (l)      8,277        16,105   

Noncontrolling interest

   38 (c) and others      (304,242 )     (135,393 )
                   
        (395,519 )     (210,995 )
                   

Total equity as adjusted in accordance with U.S. GAAP

      (Won) 11,100,153      (Won) 10,456,444   
                   

Stockholders’ equity

      (Won) 10,929,157      (Won) 10,287,594   

Noncontrolling interest

      (Won) 170,996      (Won) 168,850   
                   

(c) 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 in 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 (in millions of Korean won):

 

      Percentage of ownership (%)      Carrying value  

Entity

   2010      2009      2008      2010      2009      2008  

Listed :

                 

KTSM

     36.9         36.9         36.9       (Won) 25,497       (Won) 14,775       (Won) 11,072   

KT Music (formerly, “KTF Music Corporation”)

     48.7         35.3         35.3       (Won) 16,008       (Won) 21,899       (Won) 18,705   

Unlisted :

                 

Olivenine

                     19.5       (Won)       (Won)       (Won) 2,769   

KTP

     44.9         44.9         44.9       (Won) 43,515       (Won) 37,430       (Won) 31,633   

SFNH BF-(1)

     43.3         43.3         43.3       (Won) 6,645       (Won) 6,660       (Won) 10,505   

KTR Co., Ltd.

     58.0                       (Won) 19,627       (Won)       (Won)   

KT Rental

     58.0                       (Won) 165,724       (Won)       (Won)   

KT-LIG ACE Private Equity Fund

     9.0                       (Won) 4,882       (Won)       (Won)   

Vanguard Private Equity Fund

     28.1         16.1               (Won) 5,155       (Won) 5,650       (Won)   

Doremi Media (*1)

             64.2         64.2       (Won)       (Won)       (Won)   

 

(*1) Disposed during 2010. Prior to disposal, it was consolidated by KT Music

 

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The quoted market values (based on closing KOSDAQ prices) of KTSM and KT Music shares held by the Company are (Won)33,229 million and (Won)39,279 million as of December 31, 2010, respectively.

Presented below is the summarized combined financial information of those entities that are consolidated under Korean GAAP but not for U.S. GAAP, prepared in accordance with Korean GAAP as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2010:

 

(in millions of Korean won)

   2010      2009  

Current assets

   (Won) 439,409       (Won) 175,096   

Non-current assets

     1,183,498         160,738   
                 

Total assets

     1,622,907         335,834   
                 

Current liabilities

     403,857         87,964   

Non-current liabilities

     648,157         41,404   
                 

Total liabilities

     1,052,014         129,368   
                 

Net assets

   (Won) 570,893       (Won) 206,466   
                 

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Operating revenues

   (Won) 646,069      (Won) 232,746      (Won) 272,407   

Operating income

   (Won) 63,402      (Won) 224,110      (Won) 268,978   

Net income

   (Won) 32,149      (Won) 7,203      (Won) (15,551 )
     2010     2009     2008  

Net cash provided by operating activities

   (Won) 168,399      (Won) 62,018      (Won) 30,172   

Net cash used in investing activities

     (209,374 )     (31,534 )     (53,271 )

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     47,909        (21,502 )     (2,546 )

Effect of changes in consolidated entities

     (2,418 )     20,580          
                        

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     4,516        29,562        (25,645 )

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year

     71,448             19,046          47,185   
                        

Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year

   (Won) 75,964      (Won) 48,608      (Won) 21,540   
                        

Condensed consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 and condensed consolidated statements of cash flows of the Company under U.S GAAP for the three years in the period ended December 31, 2010 are presented in Note 38(u).

(d) Debt and Equity Securities

Under Korean GAAP, non-marketable securities classified as available-for-sale securities are 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 ASC Topic 323 “Investments Equity Method and Joint Ventures” and ASC Topic 325 “Investments Other.”

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-sale securities are classified as current.

For U.S. GAAP purposes, the Company accounts for marketable equity and debt investments under the provisions of ASC Topic 320 “Debt and Equity Securities.” This guidance 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.

 

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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 ASC Topic 320 at December 31, 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     2010  

(in millions of Korean won)

   Cost or
amortized cost
     Gross
unrealized
holding gains
     Gross
unrealized
holding losses
    Fair
value
 

Equity securities (available-for-sale)

   (Won) 24,352       (Won) 12,202       (Won) (879 )   (Won) 35,672   

Debt securities (available-for-sale)

     9,313         69                9,382   
                                  
   (Won) 33,665       (Won) 12,271       (Won) (879 )   (Won) 45,057   
                                  
     2009  
     Cost or
amortized cost
     Gross
unrealized

holding gains
     Gross
unrealized
holding losses
    Fair
value
 

Equity securities (available-for-sale)

   (Won) 18,726       (Won) 7,484       (Won) (104 )   (Won) 26,106   

Debt securities (available-for-sale)

     4,877         420                5,297   
                                  
   (Won) 23,603       (Won) 7,904       (Won) (104 )   (Won) 31,403   
                                  

The proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities were (Won)6,148 million in 2010, (Won)6,833 million in 2009 and 614,405 million in 2008. The realized gains on those sales were (Won)274 million in 2010, (Won)1,716 million in 2009 and (Won)5,587 million in 2008. The average-cost method is used to calculate gains or losses from the sale of available-for-sale securities.

Under Korean GAAP, when the subsequent recoveries of impaired available-for-sale securities and held-to-maturity securities result in an increase of their carrying amount, the recovery gains are reported in current operations up to the previously recognized impairment loss as reversal of loss on impairment of investment securities.

Under U.S. GAAP, the subsequent increase in carrying amount of the impaired and written down held-to-maturity securities is not allowed. The subsequent increase in fair value of available-for-sale securities is reported in other comprehensive income.

(e) 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 exceeding 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.

 

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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 ASC Topic 350, “Intangibles-Goodwill and Other”, 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 ASC Topic 323. 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 Personal Customer Group for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2010 are as follows (in millions of Korean won):

 

Balance as of January 1, 2009

   (Won) 538,132   

Goodwill acquired during the year

       

Balance as of December 31, 2009

     538,132   

Goodwill acquired during the year

       

Balance as of December 31, 2010

   (Won) 538,132   

(f) Loan Impairment

KT Capital Inc., a subsidiary of KT Corporation, estimates the allowances for the doubtful loan receivables based on the forward looking criteria (“FLC’), which is the regulatory guideline for assessing the collectability of the receivables applicable to the financial institutes in Korea, as permitted under Korean GAAP.

However, under U.S. GAAP, the impairment on the loans receivable is recorded when, based on current information and events, it is probable that a creditor will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement.

(g) 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 a 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.

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, prior to the fiscal year beginning on or after December 15, 2008, 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.

(h) Intangible Assets

Under Korean GAAP, the frequency usage right related to the second generation (“2G”) paid by the initial stockholders 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.

 

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Under U.S. GAAP, the 2G frequency usage right was considered as indefinite lived intangible asset and thus in the process of purchase accounting of KTM, KT recognized the frequency usage right at fair value. However, 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, the Company amortizes the frequency usage right of 2G over the remaining useful life under U.S. GAAP beginning from the year ended December 31, 2006.

In addition, the frequency usage right related to the third generation (“3G”) acquired in 2000 has been accounted for in the same manner under Korean GAAP and U.S. GAAP.

Identifiable intangible assets determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 are presented below.

 

     2010  

(In millions of Korean won)

   Gross carrying
amount
     Accumulated
amortization
     Net amount  

Amortizable intangible assets:

        

Internal-use software

   (Won) 1,316,036       (Won) 807,422       (Won) 508,614   

Frequency usage rights

     1,464,821         858,668         606,153   

Buildings and facility utilization rights

     164,277         93,836         70,441   

Other

     317,506         291,823         25,683   
                          

Total

   (Won) 3,262,640       (Won) 2,051,749       (Won) 1,210,891   
                          

 

     2009  

(In millions of Korean won)

   Gross carrying
amount
     Accumulated
amortization
     Net amount  

Amortizable intangible assets:

        

Internal-use software

   (Won) 1,070,786       (Won) 686,739       (Won) 384,047   

Frequency usage rights

     1,465,990         726,088         739,902   

Buildings and facility utilization rights

     130,179         85,702         44,477   

Other

     316,586         251,834         64,752   
                          

Total

   (Won) 2,983,541       (Won) 1,750,363       (Won) 1,233,178   
                          

 

Amortization expense:

  

For the year ended December 31, 2010

   (Won) 304,811million   

For the year ended December 31, 2009

     314,102 million   

For the year ended December 31, 2008

     306,000 million   

Estimated amortization expense (in millions of Korean won):

 

Year ending December 31,

      

2011

   (Won) 288,798   

2012

     235,224   

2013

     190,792   

2014

     144,876   

2015

     129,133   

Thereafter

     222,067   

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.

(i) Depreciation

In 1995, KT adopted a method of depreciation, as allowed under Korean GAAP, whereby property and equipment placed in service at any time during the first half of the year received a full year of depreciation expense, and property and equipment placed in service at any time during the

 

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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 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 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 and equipment is 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 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

     2-8 years   

(j) Interest Capitalization

Under Korean GAAP, prior to January 1, 2003, interest was capitalized on borrowings related to the construction of all property 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, Korean GAAP was revised to allow a company to charge such interest expense to current operations. For Korean GAAP purpose, the Company adopted in 2003 the accounting policy not to capitalize such financing costs prospectively.

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.

 

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Under U.S. GAAP, details of interest capitalization for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows (in millions of Korean won):

 

     2010      2009      2008  

Total interest costs incurred

   (Won) 519,021       (Won) 512,309       (Won) 471,816   

Interest capitalized

     16,886         8,330         15,376   

Amounts charged to expense

   (Won) 502,135       (Won) 503,979       (Won) 456,440   

(k) Revenue Recognition

Under Korean GAAP, non-refundable service installation fees for telephone and initial subscription fees for PCS and leased-line 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. In 2009, due to a change in the market condition the Company changed the estimate of the expected terms of customer relationships of telephone, PCS, and leased-line service from 15 years to 11 years, from 4 years to 2 years and from 3 years to 6 years, respectively. The change in the estimated expected terms of customer relationships is accounted for as a change in accounting estimate on a prospective basis effective January 1, 2009 under the accounting standard related to change in accounting estimates. As a result, net income for the year ended December 31, 2009 increased by (Won)153 billion.

Under Korean GAAP, handset subsidy paid by the Company is accounted for as expenses. However, under U.S. GAAP, the handset subsidy is treated as reduction of revenue in accordance with ASC Topic 605, “Revenue Recognition.”

Under Korean GAAP, the sales of the certain real estate are accounted for as the revenue and the costs of the related real estate are recorded as the cost of sales under certain circumstances permitted under Korean GAAP. However, under U.S. GAAP, gains and losses from the sale of the property used for operation are required to be recorded as a component of operating income in net of the proceeds from the sale and the related costs.

(l) Income Taxes

Under Korean GAAP, recognition of deferred income tax benefit from equity in losses of affiliates requires realization of the benefit within the near future, which is interpreted 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 income 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 income 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, in accordance with SKAS No. 16, effective from January 1, 2005, the Company did not recognize deferred income tax liabilities related to equity in gains of affiliates when 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 income 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

 

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tax laws and management expects that it will ultimately use that means. However, deferred income 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.

Under U.S. GAAP, on January 1, 2007, the Company adopted accounting guidance which clarifies the accounting guidance for uncertainties in income taxes. The guidance requires that the tax effect(s) 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 tax position are to be recognized. The more-likely-than-not threshold must continue to be met in each reporting period to support continued recognition of a benefit. With the adoption of the accounting guidance, companies are required to adjust their financial statements to reflect only those tax positions that are more-likely-than-not to be sustained.

(m) 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 and equipment, were included in the 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 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 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 associated foreign currency translation gain and loss.

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 and loss is included in the results of operations.

(n) Noncontrolling Interest

Under Korean GAAP, minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries, which is noncontrolling interest under US GAAP, is presented as a separate component of equity in the consolidated balance sheet.

Under U.S. GAAP, as described in Note 38 (r) in 2009 the Company retrospectively adopted the presentation and disclosure provisions of new accounting guidance on a noncontrolling interest in its consolidated financial statements, which required noncontrolling interest to be presented as a separate component of equity in the consolidated financial statements as well as modified the presentation of net income and other comprehensive income to be attributed to controlling and noncontrolling interest. Consequently, there is no GAAP difference any longer in terms of presentation of noncontrolling interest in the consolidated financial statements except for terminology.

 

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(o) Other

Korean GAAP requires gains and losses from the sale of property and equipment, impairment write-downs and other bad debt expenses to be included as part of non-operating income (expense). Under U.S. GAAP, gains and losses from the sale of property and equipment, impairment write-downs and other bad debt expenses are required to be recorded as a component of operating income.

Under Korean GAAP, purchase of treasury stock is regarded as temporary and does not impact the ownership percentages of stockholders unless there is an explicit purpose of retirement of the repurchased shares in accordance with resolution of board of directors or stockholders’ meeting. Under U.S. GAAP, purchase of treasury stock results in a change of an entity’s ownership structure and ownership percentages of stockholders.

(p) Comprehensive Income

Prior to January 1, 2007, Korean GAAP did not require the presentation of comprehensive income, however, effective January 1, 2007, the Company adopted SKAS No. 21, “Preparation and Presentation of Financial Statements 1”, which requires separate disclosure of the details of comprehensive income. Consequently, there is no GAAP difference any longer in terms of disclosure of comprehensive income and its components.

Under U.S. GAAP, comprehensive income and its components must be presented in the financial statements. Comprehensive income includes all changes in total equity during a period except those resulting from investments by, or distributions to, owners, including certain items not included in the current results of operations.

Comprehensive income for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 is summarized as follows (in millions of Korean won):

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Attributable to stockholders :

      

Net income as attributable to stockholders adjusted in accordance with U.S. GAAP

   (Won) 1,185,918      (Won) 741,921      (Won) 518,245   

Other comprehensive income, net of tax :

      

Foreign currency translation adjustments

     (13,018     (19,389     16,921   

Unrealized gains on investments :

      

Unrealized holding gains (losses), net of tax of (Won)(3,739) million, (Won)384 million and (Won) (1,907) million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively

     (13,257     1,362        (6,762 )

Reclassification adjustment for losses realized in net earnings due to disposal, net of tax of (Won)88 million, (Won)378 million and (Won)687 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively

     274        1,388        2,436   

losses on valuation of derivatives for cash flow hedge, net of tax of (Won)(9,915) million, (Won)(5,840) million and (Won)(1,297) million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively

     (35,153     (20,705     (4,598 )
                        

Comprehensive income as adjusted in accordance with U.S. GAAP

     1,124,764        704,577        526,242   
                        

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Attributable to noncontrolling interest :

      

Net income as adjusted in accordance with U.S. GAAP

     10,222        98,704        55,178   

Other comprehensive income, net of tax :

      

Foreign currency translation adjustments

     (3,295     (7,910     8,418   

Others

     146        (2,938     (8,183 )
                        

Comprehensive income as adjusted in accordance with U.S. GAAP

     7,073        87,856        55,413   
                        

Total Comprehensive Income

   (Won) 1,131,837      (Won) 792,433      (Won) 581,655   
                        

 

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(q) Statements of Cash Flows

Statements of cash flows under Korean GAAP include the cash flows of KTSM, KTP, SFNH BF-(1), KT Music (formerly, “KTF Music Corporation”), KTR Co., Ltd, KT Rental, KT-LIG ACE Private Equity Fund, Vanguard Private Equity Fund and Doremi Media, which are accounted for under the equity method under U.S. GAAP.

Under Korean GAAP, cash flows from contributions that are restricted for the purposes of constructing assets are included in investing activities. For U.S. GAAP purposes, those cash flows are included in financing activities. In addition, under Korean GAAP cash flows from initial consolidation or deconsolidation of a 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.

(r) Significant Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

(i) In June 2009, the FASB amended the consolidation rules related to Variable Interest Entities (“VIEs”). The new rules expand the primary beneficiary analysis to incorporate a qualitative review of which entity controls and directs the activities of the VIE. The amendments also modify the rules regarding the frequency of ongoing reassessments of whether a company is the primary beneficiary. Under the revised guidance, companies are required to perform ongoing reassessments as opposed to only when certain triggering events occur, as was previously required. This guidance is effective in 2010 and there is no material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

 

(ii) In October 2009, the FASB issued ASU 2009-13 “Multiple-Deliverable Revenue Arrangements.” The update addresses how revenues should be allocated among all products and services included in sales arrangements. It establishes a selling price hierarchy for determining the selling price of each product or service, with vendor-specific objective evidence (“VSOE”) at the highest level, third-party evidence of selling price at the intermediate level, and a best estimate of the selling price at the lowest level. It replaces “fair value” with “selling price” in revenue allocation guidance, eliminates the residual method as an acceptable allocation method, and requires the use of the relative selling price method as the basis for allocation. It also significantly expands the disclosure requirements for such arrangements, including, potentially, certain qualitative disclosures. ASU 2009-13 will be effective prospectively for sales entered into or materially modified in fiscal years beginning on or after June 15, 2010. The FASB permits early adoption of ASU 2009-13, applied retrospectively, to the beginning of the year of adoption. The Company has not early adopted the accounting standard in 2010.

 

(iii) In October 2009, the FASB issued ASU 2009-14 “Certain Revenue Arrangements That Include Software Elements.” The update clarifies the guidance for allocating and measuring revenue, including how to identify software that is out of the scope. The update also amends accounting and reporting guidance for revenue arrangements involving both tangible products and software that is “more than incidental to the tangible product as a whole.” That type of software and hardware will be outside of the scope of software revenue guidance, and the hardware components will also be outside of the scope of software revenue guidance and may result in more revenue recognized at the time of the hardware sale. Additional disclosures will discuss allocation of revenue to products and services in sales arrangements and the significant judgments applied in the revenue allocation method, including impacts on the timing and amount of revenue recognition. ASU 2009-14 will be effective prospectively for revenue arrangements entered into or materially modified in fiscal years beginning on or after June 15, 2010. ASU 2009-14 has the same effective date, including early adoption provisions, as ASU 2009-13. The Company has not early adopted the accounting standard in 2010.

 

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(iv) In December 2009, the FASB issued ASU 2009-16 “Transfers and Servicing.” This update removes the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity (“QSPE”) and creates more stringent conditions for reporting a transfer of a portion of a financial asset as a sale. To determine if a transfer is to be accounted for as a sale, the transferor must assess whether it and all of the entities included in its consolidated financial statements have surrendered control of the assets. This standard is effective from January 1, 2010, with adoption applied prospectively for transfers that occur on and after the effective date. The elimination of the QSPE concept requires to retrospectively assess all current off-balance sheet QSPE structures for consolidation under ASC Topic 810, “Consolidation,” and record a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings for any consolidation change. Retrospective application of ASU 2009-16, specially the QSPE removal, is being assessed as part of the analysis required from ASU 2009-17, “Improvements to Financial Reporting by Enterprises Involved with Variable Interest Entities.” Refer to the section below for further information related to ASU 2009-17.

 

(v) In January 2010, the FASB amended the disclosure guidance related to fair value measurements. The amended disclosure guidance requires new fair value measurement disclosures and clarifies existing fair value measurement disclosure requirements. The amended disclosure guidance related to disclosures about purchases, sales, issuances and settlements of Level 3 instruments will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010. The remaining amended disclosure guidance will be effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2009. The Company adopted the guidance in 2010 with no material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

 

(vi) In January 2010, the FASB issued authoritative guidance for improving disclosures about fair value measurements, which requires new and amended disclosure requirements for classes of assets and liabilities, inputs and valuation techniques and transfers between levels of fair value measurements and accounting for distributions to shareholders with components of stock and cash, which clarifies the accounting for distributions to shareholders that offer them the ability to elect to receive their entire distribution in cash or shares of equivalent value. The Company adopted the guidance in 2010 with no material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

 

(vii) The FASB issued ASU 2010-09 on February 24, 2010 to amend ASC 855, Subsequent Events to address certain implementation issues. The amendments remove the requirement for an SEC filer to disclose a date in both issued and revised financial statements. Revised financial statements include financial statements revised as a result of either correction of an error or retrospective application of U.S. GAAP. Additionally, it has clarified that if the financial statements have been revised, then an entity that is not an SEC filer should disclose both the date that the financial statements were issued or available to be issued and the date the revised financial statements were issued or available to be issued. That amendment is effective for interim or annual periods ending after June 15, 2010. The Company adopted the standard in 2010 with no material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

 

(viii) The FASB issued ASU 2010-20 on July 21, 2010 to provide financial statement users with greater transparency about an entity’s allowance for credit losses and the credit quality of its financing receivables. This amendment is intended to provide additional information to assist financial statement users in assessing and entity’s credit risk exposures and evaluating the adequacy of its allowance for credit losses. The disclosures as of the end of a reporting period are effective for interim and annual reporting periods ending on or after December 15, 2010. The disclosures about activity that occurs during a reporting period are effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning on or after December 15, 2010. The Company adopted the standard in 2010 and accordingly, disclosed the additional information related to credit risk.

 

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(s) Income per Share

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted income per share attributable to stockholders for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008:

 

    2010     2009     2008  
    Diluted     Basic     Diluted     Basic     Diluted     Basic  

CONSOLIDATED (in millions of Korean won)

           

Net income from continuing operations

  (Won) 1,185,918      (Won) 1,185,918      (Won) 746,849      (Won) 742,454      (Won) 521,692      (Won) 521,692   

Net income (loss) from discontinued operations

                  (533 )     (533 )     (3,447 )     (3,447 )

Net income

  (Won) 1,185,918      (Won) 1,185,918      (Won) 746,316      (Won) 741,921      (Won) 518,245      (Won) 518,245   

AVERAGE EQUIVALENT SHARES

           

Shares of common stock outstanding

    243,207,149        243,207,149        219,512,696        219,512,696        202,891,015        202,891,015   

Dilutive effect of exchangeable bond

                  4,655,062                        

Dilutive effect of stock option and grant

    18,081                                      

Total average equivalent shares

    243,225,230        243,207,149        224,167,758        219,512,696        202,891,015        202,891,015   

PER SHARE AMOUNTS (in Korean won)

           

Net income from continuing operations

  (Won) 4,876      (Won) 4,876      (Won) 3,332      (Won) 3,382      (Won) 2,571      (Won) 2,571   

Net income (loss) from discontinued operations

                  (2 )     (2 )     (17 )     (17 )
                                               

Net income per share

  (Won) 4,876      (Won) 4,876      (Won) 3,330      (Won) 3,380      (Won) 2,554      (Won) 2,554   
                                               

Basic income per share is computed on the basis of the weighted-average number of common stock outstanding. Diluted income per share is computed on the basis of the weighted-average number of common stock outstanding plus the effect of outstanding exchangeable bonds, stock option and other stock compensation using the “if-exchanged method” and the “treasury stock” method if dilutive. The denominator of the diluted income per share computation is adjusted to include the number of additional common stock that would have been outstanding had the dilutive potential common stock been issued at the beginning of the period or since issued. In addition, the numerator is adjusted to include the after-tax amount of interest and foreign currency translation gain (loss) recognized associated with the exchangeable bonds. 43,153 shares, 365,832 shares and 417,785 shares of stock options outstanding as of December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively, were not considered when calculating dilutive income 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.

 

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(t) Condensed Consolidated U.S. GAAP Financial Information

Condensed consolidated balance sheets in accordance with U.S. GAAP as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 are presented as follows (in millions of Korean won):

 

     2010      2009  

Current assets

     

Accounts receivable—trade

   (Won) 3,744,375       (Won) 3,596,936   

Other current assets

     3,996,880         4,232,602   
                 

Total current assets

     7,741,255         7,829,538   

Investments

     870,456         463,701   

Property and equipment, net

     13,681,924         14,040,901   

Goodwill

     560,808         560,834   

Other assets

     3,748,335         3,630,526   
                 

Total assets

   (Won) 26,602,778       (Won) 26,525,500   
                 

Current liabilities

     

Accounts payable—trade

   (Won) 1,492,008       (Won) 1,478,667   

Other current liabilities

     5,664,760         5,505,811   
                 

Total current liabilities

     7,156,768         6,984,478   

Long-term debt, excluding current portion

     6,719,071         7,515,257   

Other long-term liabilities

     1,626,786         1,569,321   
                 

Total liabilities

     15,502,625         16,069,056   
                 

Stockholders’ equity

     10,929,157         10,287,594   

Noncontrolling interest

     170,996         168,850   

Total equity

     11,100,153         10,456,444   
                 

Total liabilities and equity

   (Won) 26,602,778       (Won) 26,525,500   
                 

 

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Condensed consolidated statements of cash flows in accordance with U.S. GAAP for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 are set out below (in millions of Korean won):

 

     2010     2009     2008  

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

      

Net income

   (Won) 1,196,140      (Won) 840,625      (Won) 573,423   

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

      

Depreciation and amortization

     3,112,991        3,287,343        3,663,037   

Provision for doubtful accounts

     191,009        91,863        139,441   

Loss on disposal of property and equipment

     79,845        118,925        89,734   

Equity in loss of associates

     (91,239 )     (81,078 )     (164,336 )

Deferred income tax benefit

     17,922        (20,522 )     (115,337 )

Gain on disposition of available-for-sale securities, net

     (356 )     (1,716 )     (5,587 )

Impairment losses of equity method affiliates

                   22,058   

Foreign currency translation loss (gain), net

     (32,793 )     (245,748 )     753,592   

Loss (Gain) on settlement and valuation of derivatives, net

     7,576        172,717        (649,360 )

Changes in assets and liabilities related to operating activities:

      

Notes and accounts receivable

     (101,763 )     (620,909 )     (161,287 )

Inventories

     (6,900 )     (287,367 )     (142,512 )

Advance payments

     (59,995 )     (20,687 )     (2,795 )

Notes and long-term accounts receivable

     (773,393 )     (533,925 )     (654,248 )

Accounts payable

     36,639        1,612,516        (423,619 )

Advance receipts

     (24,370 )     52,707        19,783   

Income taxes payable

     298,990        (169,092 )     (153,173 )

Prepaid expenses

     (4,704 )     (19,915 )     (44,291 )

Withholdings

     64,825        (129,912 )     26,404   

Accrued expenses

     77,837        (39,298 )     24,904   

Refundable deposits for telephone installation

     (80,581 )     (85,129 )     (59,437 )

Payment of severance indemnities

     (1,002,871 )     (214,965 )     140,352   

Deposits for severance indemnities

     281,576        49,861        (148,822 )

Other, net

     (164,804 )     (418,286 )     160,633   
                        

Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities

     3,021,581        3,338,008        2,888,557   
                        

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

      

Acquisition of property and equipment

     (3,019,378 )     (2,759,777 )     (3,322,381 )

Disposal of property and equipment

     27,109        69,777        53,606   

Decrease (increase) in short-term financial instruments, net

     252,216        (39,287 )     209,474   

Disposal of available-for-sale securities

     6,148        6,833        614,405   

Proceeds from the sale of equity method investments

     56,260        1,322        1,047   

Collection of held-to-maturity securities

            14,093        5   

Acquisition of available-for-sale securities

     (88,980 )     (79,847 )     (692,289 )

Acquisition of equity method investment securities

     (86,798 )     (18,191 )     (123,171 )

Acquisition of held-to-maturity securities

            (5 )     (13,988 )

Acquisition of assets and liabilities of consolidated subsidiaries

     (39,689 )     37,580        (5,619 )

Acquisition of intangible assets

     (348,736     (209,644     (181,937

Other, net

     (35,001 )     159,391        (41,422 )
                        

Net Cash Used in Investing Activities

     (3,276,849 )     (2,817,755 )     (3,502,270 )
                        

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

      

Payment of dividends

     (493,156 )     (228,332 )     (408,242 )

Increase in short-term borrowings

     257,263        101,395        55,440   

Repayment of long-term borrowings and current portion of long-term debt

     (1,534,873 )     (1,431,343 )     (2,121,831 )

Increase in long-term borrowings

     1,610,833        1,498,630        3,735,500   

Acquisition of treasury stock

     (54 )     (528,143 )     (73,807 )

Outflows from capital transactions of consolidated entities

     9,576        (276,388 )     (110,917 )

Other, net

     33,550        (37,542 )     70,702   
                        

Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities

     (116,861 )     (901,723 )     1,146,845   
                        

NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

     (372,130 )     (381,470 )     533,132   

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF THE YEAR

     1,489,514        1,870,984        1,337,852   
                        

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF THE YEAR

   (Won) 1,117,384      (Won) 1,489,514      (Won) 1,870,984   
                        

Supplemental schedule:

      

Cash paid for interest (net of amounts capitalized)

   (Won) 462,560      (Won) 498,299      (Won) 406,485   

Cash paid for income taxes

   (Won) 134,649      (Won) 274,302      (Won) 453,532   

 

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39.    ADDITIONAL U.S. GAAP DISCLOSURES

(a) Income Tax Expense

The components of income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows (in millions of Korean won):

 

     2010      2009     2008  

Current income tax expense

   (Won) 331,010       (Won) 138,194      (Won) 293,512   

Deferred income tax benefit

     43,020         (20,522 )     (115,337 )
                         

Income tax expense

   (Won) 374,030       (Won) 117,672      (Won) 178,175   
                         

Substantially all income before income taxes and related income tax expense (benefit) are attributable to domestic operations. The provision for income taxes using statutory tax rates differs from the actual provision for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 for the following reasons (in millions of Korean won):

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Provision for income taxes at statutory tax rates

   (Won) 379,955      (Won) 232,025      (Won) 207,625   

Tax credits

     (54,578 )     (110,825 )     (197,492 )

Additional income tax payment (refund) related to prior year

     8,208        12,692        (4,716 )

Non-temporary difference

     12,553        15,985        24,863   

Changes in deferred income tax unrecognized

     17,642        (35,338 )     (65 )

Tax rate changes

     6,922        3,421        142,437   

Others

     3,328        (288 )     5,523   
                        

Actual provision for income taxes

   (Won) 374,030      (Won) 117,672      (Won) 178,175   
                        

The effective tax rates after adjustments of certain differences between amounts reported for financial accounting and income tax purpose, were approximately 23.8%,12.3% and 23.6% for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

The tax effects of temporary differences that resulted in significant portions of the deferred income tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2010 and 2009, computed under U.S. GAAP, and a description of financial statement items that created these differences are as follows (in millions of Korean won):

 

     2010     2009  

Deferred income tax assets:

    

Allowance for doubtful accounts

   (Won) 132,099      (Won) 122,873   

Refundable deposits for telephone installation

     9,283        9,609   

Investment securities

     8,495        9,154   

Inventories

     1,416        1,174   

Property and equipment

     181,393        156,079   

Unearned revenue

     50,989        55,121   

Equity method investment securities

     2,923        23,737   

Tax credit carryforwards

     88,794        169,122   

Tax loss carryforwards

     60,999        61,882   

Accrued expenses

     87,997        33,918   

Other

     238,774        266,453   
                

Total deferred income tax assets

     863,162        909,122   
                

Valuation allowance

     (144,858 )     (88,229 )
                

Deferred income tax assets

     718,304        820,893   
                

Deferred income tax liabilities:

    

Equity method investment securities

            (47,623 )

Accrued interest income

     (818 )     (1,855 )
                

Deferred income tax liabilities

     (818 )     (49,478 )
                

Net deferred income tax assets

   (Won) 717,486      (Won) 771,415   
                

 

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In 2010 and 2009, valuation allowances were recognized by certain subsidiaries as realization of deferred income tax asset was not assessed as more likely than not mainly due to lack of expected future taxable income.

In 2010, the Company was eligible for tax credits of (Won)257,331 million. However, due to the minimum tax provisions, the Company utilized only (Won)150,720 million. The remaining tax credit will expire in 2015. During 2010, the Company concluded that the remaining tax credits 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)88,794 million of the tax credit. The tax loss carryforwards of (Won)266,147 million as of December 31, 2010 will expire through 2020. During 2010, certain subsidiaries including KT Tech did not recognize deferred income tax assets amounting to (Won)57,620 million which resulted from the tax effects of tax loss carryforwards of (Won)261,909 million in excess of taxable differences and future taxable income. The valuation allowances reflect the uncertainty surrounding the Company’s ability to generate sufficient future taxable income in certain tax jurisdictions to utilize its net operating losses and the Company’s ability to generate sufficient capital gains to utilize all capital losses.

In assessing the realizability of deferred income tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred income tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred income 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 income 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 in which the deferred income tax assets are deductible or utilized, management believes it is more likely than not that the Company will realize the benefits of these deductible differences, net of the valuation allowance recorded at December 31, 2010 and 2009. The amount of the deferred income tax asset considered realizable, however, could be reduced in the near term if estimates of future taxable income are reduced.

The amount of unrecognized tax benefits that would favorably affect the effective income tax rate was (Won)5,761 million and ((Won)25,872) million for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The liability for uncertain tax positions is classified as a non-current liability in accordance with the guidance.

A reconciliation of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits at the beginning and end of the period is as follows (in millions of Korean won):

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Balance at January 1,

   (Won) (1,618   (Won) 4,252      (Won) 6,450   

Additions to tax positions recorded during the current year

     6,281        (5,293 )     573   

Additions to tax positions recorded during prior years

     605        347        268   

Reductions to tax positions recorded during prior years

     (602     (360 )     (226 )

Reductions for settlement

            (564 )     (2,813 )
                        

Balance at December 31,

   (Won) 4,666      (Won) (1,618 )   (Won) 4,252   
                        

The Company’s practice is to classify interest on uncertain tax positions in non-operating expense whereas penalties are classified in income tax expense. The Company recognized (Won)605 million and (Won)347 million in penalties for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, the Company had (Won)1,514 million and (Won)909 million accrued for the payment of penalties.

 

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The Company has open tax years ranging from 2006 to 2010, by which its taxes remain subject to examination. However, the Company does not anticipate that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next 12 months.

(b) Fair Value Measurements

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (an exit price). GAAP establishes a valuation hierarchy for prioritizing the inputs and the hierarchy places greater emphasis on the use of observable market inputs and less emphasis on unobservable inputs. When determining fair value, an entity is required to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. The three levels of the hierarchy are as follows: Level 1, defined as observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets; Level 2, defined as inputs other than quoted prices in active markets that are either directly or indirectly observable; and Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs in which little or no market data exists, therefore requiring an entity to develop its own assumptions.

Following is a description of the valuation methodologies the Company used for instruments measured at fair value, as well as the general classification of such instruments pursuant to the valuation hierarchy.

(i) Recurring Fair Value

Securities

The Company classifies its securities within Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy where quoted prices are available in an active market.

Derivatives

The Company generally classifies derivatives within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy. The derivative financial instruments consist of cross currency interest rate swap and forward. The cross currency interest swaps and forward are valued using valuation models that use as their basis readily observable market inputs, such as time value, forward interest rates, volatility factors and current and forward market prices for foreign currency.

 

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The following fair value hierarchy table presents information regarding the assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively (in millions of Korean won):

 

     2010  
     Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  

ASSETS

           

Securities

           

• Beneficiary certificates

   (Won) 67,826       (Won)       (Won)  —       (Won) 67,826   

• Trading securities

     2,000                         2,000   

• Available-for-sale securities

     20,121                         20,121   

• Held-to-maturity securities

             7                 7   

Derivative instruments assets :

           

• Interest rate swap

             1,213                 1,213   

• Currency swap

             34,193                 34,193   

• Combined interest rate currency swap

             212,388                 212,388   

• Currency forwards

             136                 136   
                                   

Total

   (Won) 89,947       (Won) 247,937       (Won)       (Won) 337,884   
                                   

LIABILITIES

           

Derivative instruments liabilities :

           

• Interest rate swap

             214                 214   

• Currency swap

             6,560                 6,560   

• Combined interest rate currency swap

             13,277                 13,277   

• Currency forwards

             420                 420   
                                   

Total

   (Won)       (Won) 20,471       (Won)       (Won) 20,471   
                                   
     2009  
     Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  

ASSETS

           

Securities

           

• Beneficiary certificates

   (Won) 84,199       (Won)       (Won)       (Won) 84,199   

• Trading securities

     15,470                         15,470   

• Available-for-sale securities

     31,403                         31,403   

• Held-to-maturity securities

             82                 82   

Derivative instruments assets :

           

• Interest rate swap

             23                 23   

• Currency swap

             47,547                 47,547   

• Combined interest rate currency swap

             417,731                 417,731   

• Currency forwards

             288                 288   
                                   

Total

   (Won) 131,072       (Won) 465,671       (Won)       (Won) 596,743   
                                   

LIABILITIES

           

Derivative instruments liabilities :

           

• Interest rate swap

             5,775                 5,775   

• Currency swap

             3,781                 3,781   

• Currency forwards

             1,723                 1,723   
                                   

Total

   (Won)       (Won) 11,279       (Won)       (Won) 11,279   
                                   

(ii) Non-recurring Fair Value

In 2009, the Company adopted the provisions of the authoritative guidance on fair value measurements for nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities that the Company does not recognize or disclose at fair value on a recurring basis (at least annually). These include reporting units measured at fair value in a goodwill impairment test, other nonfinancial assets or liabilities measured at fair value for impairment testing, and nonfinancial assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination. In connection with the adoption of this guidance the Company analyzed and evaluated

 

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them to determine whether nonfinancial assets and liabilities had any evidences of impairment. As a result of the evaluation, the Company noted that it currently does not have significant non-financial assets or non-financial liabilities that are required to be measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis.

(c) Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The following method and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each significant class of financial instrument for which it was practicable to estimate such value:

(i) Cash and cash equivalents, short-term financial instruments, accounts receivable, accounts payable and short-term borrowings

The carrying amount approximates fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments and credit risk.

(ii) Loans to employees

The carrying amount of short-term loans approximates fair value due to the short term maturities of these loans. The fair value of long-term loans is estimated based on discounted cash flows using current rates offered for loans of the similar remaining maturities.

(iii) Long-term debt

The fair value of the long-term debt, including 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.

The estimated fair values of the Company’s significant financial instruments at December 31, 2010 and 2009 are summarized as follows (in millions of Korean won):

 

     2010      2009  
     Carrying amount      Fair value      Carrying amount      Fair value  

Cash and cash equivalents

   (Won) 1,124,810       (Won) 1,124,810       (Won) 1,489,674       (Won) 1,489,674   

Short-term financial instruments

     67,826         67,826         84,199         84,199   

Notes and accounts receivable

     4,282,543         4,282,543         4,082,386         4,082,386   

Loans to employees

     5,093         4,727         53,020         52,801   

Accounts payable

     1,492,019         1,492,019         1,479,812         1,479,812   

Short-term borrowings

     436,160         436,160         358,205         358,205   

Long-term debt, including current portion

     8,924,843         8,827,137         9,219,764         9,154,905   

(d) Accrued Severance Indemnities

The Company expects to pay the following future benefits to its employees upon their normal retirement age (in millions of Korean won):

 

Year ending December 31,

      

2011

   (Won) 3,224   

2012

     2,937   

2013

     5,952   

2014

     16,317   

2015

     45,783   

2016-2020

     395,467   

 

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(e) Loan Receivables

Loan receivables by type as of December 31, 2010, are as follows:

 

     2010  

(in millions of

Korean won)

        Original
Amount
     Allowance for
doubtful accounts
    Carrying
Value
 

Loans receivable

   Factoring receivables    (Won) 35,737       (Won) (647   (Won) 35,090   
   Loans      1,021,702         (27,934     993,768   
   Accounts receivable-loans      13,307         (2,402     10,905   

Loan for installment credit

   Loans for installment credit      54,364         (2,573     51,791   
  

Accounts receivable-loans for

installment credit

     528         (82     446   

Loan for new technology

  

New technology financial

investment assets

     3,984         (1,124     2,860   
   New technology financial loans      10,786         (181     10,605   
                            
   Total    (Won) 1,140,408       (Won) (34,943   (Won) 1,105,465   
                            

The Company provides the allowance for the doubtful accounts for overdue receivables based on the aging analysis, historical bad debt experience and other relevant factors.

The aging analysis of loans receivables as of December 31, 2010, is as follows:

 

(in millions of Korean won)

   2010  

Current

   (Won) 1,066,046   

Past due but not impaired

  

Less than 31 days past due

     9,954   

31 ~ 60 days past due

     18,050   

61 ~ 90 days past due

     3,069   

91 ~ 180 days past due

       

over 180 days

       
        
     31,073   
        

Impaired loan

  

Impaired loans on individual basis

     10,392   

Allowance for doubtful accounts

     (3,784

Impaired loans as a group

     32,897   

Allowance for doubtful accounts

     (31,159
        
     8,346   
        

Total

   (Won) 1,105,465   
        

The maximum exposure to credit risk of each class of receivables is equal to the book value of each class of receivable as of December 31, 2010.

Credit risk is managed at the company level to minimize the financial loss. Credit risk arises in the ordinary course of transactions and investing activities, where clients or other party fails to discharge an obligation. The Company considers the counterparty’s credit on a periodic basis based on the counterparty’s financial conditions, default history and other important factors. Credit risk arises from cash and cash equivalents, derivative financial instruments and deposits with banks and financial institutions, as well as outstanding receivables. To minimize such risk, the Company transacts only with financial institutions which have strong credit rating.

 

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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/ Suk-Chae Lee

Name: Suk-Chae Lee
Title: Chief Executive Officer

Date: June 29, 2011