In this paper, we deal with to survey a narrow band ISDN transmission capability through the local subscriber line in Korea. First, we disscuss international activity trends of technical references required for a narrow band ISDN services using existing pair cables. Second, we have measured transmission characteristics to send digital signals at 144kbps ratio through the local subscriber line With this result, we have found that 3.6% of measured lines are not availlable for a narow band ISDN channel, obtained a conclusion that the input level of U-transceiver should be more than -31dBm so as to assure the sufficient digital transmission quality. We also know that majority noise cased by transmission error are due to impulsive noise and near end crosstalk. Fianlly. as a result of the BER measruement, it is observed that, within 2.5km, more than 70% of measured cables are satisfied with the reference quality.