Samsung signs AI-RAN deals with KT, SK Telecom for South Korea initiative

Samsung announced on September 23 that it has entered into agreements with South Korean telecom operators KT and SK Telecom for projects involving artificial intelligence-powered radio access networks (AI-RAN). These undertakings are part of the South Korean Ministry of Science and ICT's 'Hyper AI Network' initiative.

The projects are slated to commence in October 2026. They will utilize private 5G Standalone networks deployed at industrial sites to test technologies that Samsung and other telecom firms view as foundational for future 6G networks. Samsung has stated it is the sole global vendor for KT's project and the primary vendor for SK Telecom's project.

KT will conduct trials at HD Hyundai Samho's shipyard in Yeongam. There, robots involved in welding, painting, and telecom facility operations will be equipped with Samsung's edge AI and network automation software. Concurrently, SK Telecom will test an autonomous patrol robot and closed-circuit television monitoring at SK Incheon Petrochem.

AI-RAN technology integrates artificial intelligence more deeply into the radio access network compared to conventional systems. Samsung has previously described this technology as part of its broader roadmap for AI-powered networks. The announcement did not specify if the ministry directly selected Samsung for these roles, only that the projects fall under the government's initiative.