Korea Telecom in Seoul will soon begin communication service at the Gaesong Industrial Complex in North Korea.

The company on Thursday said it has obtained approval from the U.S. Commerce Department to export telecommunications equipment to the complex, setting a precedent for other firms seeking to export to the North.

In July, the company applied for U.S. approval for items subject to export regulations after consultation with the government.

Companies operating in the complex can directly contact South Korea at cheaper cost and improve work efficiency after service begins.