SK Telecom CEO Jung Jai-hun unveiled plans for a significant, multi-trillion won investment in an AI-driven transformation during the Mobile World Conference (MWC) in Barcelona on Sunday. This investment, equivalent to billions of US dollars, signifies a major strategic shift for the South Korean telecommunications giant.
In his first official press conference since assuming his role in October, Jung emphasized the critical importance of AI, stating, “AI is not a chance for companies but a crisis. Those that fail to adapt will inevitably fall behind and perish.”
He underscored the necessity of comprehensive restructuring and substantial investment to strengthen the core of SK Telecom’s business: its customer base. While avoiding specific figures, he confirmed the investment would exceed several trillion won.
The proposed plan includes a complete overhaul of integrated billing and computing systems that support telecom services, enabling seamless AI-based operations. SK Telecom also intends to expedite the rollout of an “autonomous operations network,” which will leverage AI to monitor and optimize wireless quality, traffic management, and infrastructure.
Furthermore, the telecom carrier is expanding its AI infrastructure, with plans to build hyperscale data centers nationwide. These data centers will boast a combined capacity of over 1 gigawatt, positioning SK Telecom as a leading AI hub in Asia.
Regarding AI model strategy, Jung clarified that SK Telecom will prioritize specialized domains rather than directly competing with the foundation models developed by global tech giants.
“Global big tech companies are leading in foundation models, and it’s not our intention to confront them directly and claim victory,” he stated. “Our goal is to develop models optimized for areas where there is real, tangible demand.”
He explained that this approach aligns with a sovereign AI strategy, which aims to provide secure alternatives for government agencies and enterprises facing security constraints with overseas platforms.
Concerning the development of 6G technology, Jung highlighted that advancements in AI necessitate parallel development of network infrastructure. SK Telecom is currently engaged in joint research with Nvidia and SK hynix, with projections indicating that 6G standards could be finalized around 2029.
yeeun
