Abstract
This study was aimed to derive implications in terms of competition to establish a reasonable spectrum policy for fifth-generation (5G) spectrum allocation through an in-depth analysis of C-band spectrum auctions. As a result of examining auctions in five countries, namely, Belgium, Sweden, Canada, Brazil, and Hong Kong, we identified various characteristics. First, the minimum bandwidth that is essential for service competition is guaranteed. Second, in Brazil, the network construction cost of mobile network operators is regarded as a part of the spectrum price. Third, a joint allocation of spectrum is permitted in Sweden, and spectrum sharing after allocation for 5G services is allowed in Canada. Finally, the reserved spectrum is provided for new service providers in Belgium and Canada. Our findings may provide insights for establishing policies of 5G spectrum allocation and competition in the telecommunications service market in Korea.