Although the next generation of Apple's iPhone hasn't yet been released, and no details about the device have been given, Samsung already plans to try to ban its sales in Korea, the Korea Times reports citing unnamed industry sources.

The legal battle between the two companies has been raging for months, with Apple managing to ban the sales of Samsung's Galaxy Tab as well as some variants of the Galaxy S smartphone in several countries, including the Netherlands and Australia.

The companies also sued each other in Korea: Apple on the grounds of Samsung copying the iPhone and iPad product range, while Samsung's countersuit has been more technology-based.

"For as long as Apple does not drop mobile telecommunications functions, it would be impossible for it to sell its i-branded products without using our patents. We will stick to a strong stance against Apple during the lingering legal fights," said a senior Samsung executive.

For now, Apple is winning the patent lawsuit war, but the next generation iPhone is one of the most anticipated gadgets of the year. If Samsung should manage to delay its launch — even only in Korea — it would be a nasty setback for Apple.