A new approximate expression for the probability density function (pdf) of K-distribution is proposed. The approximate pdf is found to be in good agreement with the exact analytical closed-form expression over the desired range of scintillation index lying between 2 and 3. Employing the proposed pdf, the expression in respect of two of the QoS measures of fade probability and bit error rate (BER) valid under various modulation schemes is given. Using the generalised expression of BER, plots under ON-OFF keying and binary phase shift keying modulation schemes are shown. The resulting expressions provide a better understanding in contrast to the exact results obtained in terms of Meijer G functions. Numerical computations are carried out to demonstrate the efficacy of approximate results. © The Institution of Engineering and Technology 2018.