South Korea is expected to rank number six globally in terms of the number of smartphone users by the end of this year.

According to data compiled by Strategy Analytics, South Korea's smartphone penetration rate is estimated to reach 77-point-seven percent this year, hovering above the United States which is expected to post a comparable figure of 75-point-six percent.

Hong Kong is expected to have the highest rate at 84-point-seven percent, trailed by Luxembourg and Norway with 79-point-eight percent, respectively.

South Korea's science ministry said the number of smartphone subscribers is estimated at 47-point-four million, although the figure includes users with more than one account.

Industry watchers said South Korea's latest achievement was made possible by its competitive tech manufacturers and mobile carriers.'