The Information and Communication Ministry says bugging a mobile phone is possible.

Information and Communication Minister Chin Dae-je on Tuesday said wiretapping cellular calls is possible if the software and switching systems of over 200 base stations are changed.

Chin said, however, that bugging mobile calls is technically possible but impractical since private firms and individuals lack the core parts, equipment and technology, adding only state agencies in charge of national security have this ability.

He said legal wiretapping is essential for cases related to national security and criminal investigations and that he will consider adopting the necessary technology.

To dispel public fear over bugging, the government will implement anti-wiretap measures such as improving encryption for mobile phones and adopting an handset authorization system.