LG, after months of negotiations, has confirmed that it will launch three 2.5G mobile phones in the UK by the end of the year.

Globally, LG is the fifth largest manufacturer of mobile handsets in the world, holding a worldwide market share of 5.2%.

In 2002, the Korean maker distributed more than 15 million units worldwide and established a strong presence in the American and Indian markets. With the advent of 3G, LG plans to increase its global status to third place by 2007.

Jay Lim, managing director of LG UK, said: "LG Electronics is a major global player in the competitive mobile handset arena.

"Entering the UK market will allow us to reflect our global position as a developer of leading technology."

LG said that UK sponsorship activity would target the youth market with strong LG branding and will be broadcast on 14 sports channels globally.

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