South Korea will advance the launch of the sixth-generation network service by two years in 2028 to retain its leading position in the global competition for future network infrastructure.
The plan to launch earleir is also aimed to meet the rising demand for higher speed and lower latency in wireless communications.
The launch was originally scheduled under the K-Network 2030 plan,
To enable the earleir launch, the South Korean government will secure world-class 6G technologies, innovate the software-based next-generation mobile network, and strengthen the network supply chain, according to the Ministry of Science and ICT.
The South Korean he government will also encourage local companies to locally produce 6G technology materials, parts, and equipment and develop an open radio access network compatible with any mobile device.
A feasibility study on core 6G technologies worth 625.3 billion won is underway.
According to the German analysis firm IPlytics, South Korea has led 5G development with a high number of 5G patents, while previous 4G technology development was mostly dominated by U.S. and European companies.