Gold Star Co., Ltd. (1966) - later LG Electronics Transistor radio

Gold Star BM-709 “Super Silicon Solid State” AM Transistor Radio, South Korea, c. 1966
From the Collection of a Radio Shop Owner.
In excellent tested and working condition – No reserve.

A highly attractive and increasingly collectible Gold Star BM-709 “Super Silicon Solid State” AM transistor radio, manufactured in South Korea during the late 1960s. This charming portable receiver represents an important period in consumer electronics, when silicon transistor technology replaced older germanium components, delivering improved reliability, stability, and reception quality.

Produced by Gold Star Co., Ltd. — the company that would later become the globally renowned LG Electronics — this model reflects the optimistic industrial design language of the era, featuring a striking two-tone cabinet, large integrated carrying handle, chrome control knobs, and an elegant full-width tuning scale.

The radio operates on the Medium Wave (AM) band and is equipped with seven transistors, a common mark of quality in portable radios of the period. Its clean geometric appearance and distinctive “Super Silicon Solid State” branding make it both a functional vintage radio and an appealing display piece for collectors of early Korean electronics.

This example comes from a carefully preserved private collection and remains in remarkably well-preserved near mint condition.

Condition
Tested and working
Excellent reception and tuning performance
Battery compartment exceptionally clean
Cabinet remains very clean with minimal signs of age
Front dial, controls, and grille in superb condition
Near mint overall appearance
No cracks, repairs, or significant damage observed
A wonderful collector-grade example

Technical Specifications
Manufacturer: Gold Star Co., Ltd. (later LG Electronics)
Model: BM-709
Country of Origin: Republic of Korea (South Korea)
Period: circa 1966 - late 1960s
Type: Portable transistor radio
Band: AM / MW (540–1600 kHz)
Transistors: 7
Power Supply: 4 × 1.5V D-cell batteries (6V DC)
Controls: Volume/Power, Tone Selector (Loud–Low–High), Tuning
Carrying Handle: Integrated folding handle

Dimensions & Weight
Approximate dimensions: 17 x 32 x 15 cm (h x w x d)
Approximate weight: 1.4 kg

Historical Context
Gold Star was one of South Korea’s pioneering electronics manufacturers and played a significant role in the country's emergence as a global technology powerhouse. Radios such as the BM-709 were produced during a transformative period when transistor technology revolutionized home entertainment, making portable radios more reliable, affordable, and accessible. Today, early Gold Star products are increasingly sought after as tangible examples of the origins of modern LG Electronics.

Shipping
The radio will be carefully packed using professional protective materials to ensure safe international delivery.

Disclaimer
Fully functional, but as with all vintage electrical items, a safety check by a qualified professional is recommended before use.