In South Korea’s smartphone market, Samsung holds a commanding 75% share, while Apple accounts for 24%. This dominance by Samsung is expected, given it is a homegrown brand. However, Apple is planning a move that could shake things up for Samsung.

According to the Korea Times, Apple is set to launch the iPhone 16 series in South Korea at the same time as the rest of the world. This simultaneous release is expected to harness the initial excitement and demand, potentially boosting Apple’s sales significantly in the region. As a result, Samsung could see a dip in its phone sales.

Typically, when Apple launches a new iPhone, there’s a surge of excitement, leading to a lot of pre-orders and initial sales. However, in South Korea, Apple usually releases new iPhone models a few months after their global debut. By the time they hit the South Korean market, the initial buzz has often faded, resulting in fewer sales than if the launch had been simultaneous with other regions. This delay has worked to Samsung’s advantage, helping it maintain higher sales. But things are about to change with the iPhone 16.

Apple’s decision to expedite the iPhone 16 launch in South Korea seems to be a strategy to counteract declining demand in China. By focusing on the South Korean market, Apple hopes to balance out its overall sales figures. This strategic shift could inadvertently impact Samsung, intensifying the competition for market share.

Additionally, the rollout of 5G technology and the increasing demand for advanced smartphone features are set to play a significant role in shaping the market. Both Apple and Samsung are likely to leverage these trends to enhance their offerings and attract more customers.

Nevertheless, Samsung is not standing still. The upcoming Galaxy S25 series is rumored to feature substantial improvements, which should help Samsung retain its market share in South Korea despite Apple’s new strategy.

In summary, Apple’s plan to launch the iPhone 16 in South Korea simultaneously with the global market is a strategic move to boost its presence in a Samsung-dominated market. While this could pose a challenge for Samsung, the anticipated innovations in the Galaxy S25 series may help it maintain its leadership. The coming months will be critical in determining how these strategies impact the competitive landscape of South Korea’s smartphone market.