Sony Ericsson today announced the launch of its business in Korea.To launch the Xperia X1 with Windows Mobile® and a WIPI Platform, Sony Ericsson Korea cooperated with SK Telecom, the distributor of the product, to customize the X1 in consideration of the local Korean customers. The result was the development of three new panels – “My smart panel,” “DAUM panel” and “My PC panel” and the localization of the “SPB panel” in Korean for the local user’s convenience. The sales of the Xperia X1 will start within March.

“My smart panel” is a wireless Internet service for smart phones developed by SKT, which provides users easy access to online services including mail, messenger and internet browsing. “DAUM panel” is a customized service by Sony Ericsson which gives users instant access to services found on the DAUM portal, such as mail, web search and T-story whilst “My PC panel” allows users to experience ubiquitous and individualized media services by connecting the mobile to the content and software of a PC through WiBro. In addition, the “SPB panel” is a great panel which gives quick finger-friendly access to everything you need in a second.

Specific to the Korean market, additional components and accessories including a battery with charger, a 4G micro SD card installed with the movie Spiderman 3 will accompany every purchase of the Xperia X1. The first 1,000 customers will get their names engraved on their X1 and a luxurious leather phone case for free, making it truly personalized.

“We are very excited to establish Sony Ericsson’s presence in Korea and firmly believe that we have the right product to offer to Korean consumers,” said Hirokazu Ishizuka, Corporate Vice President and Head of the Asia Pacific region. “Working closely with our strategic partner, SK Telecom, we will build the Sony Ericsson brand awareness and increase our mindshare within the marketplace.”