Samsung Electronics selected as exclusive AI network provider for KT and SK Telecom

Type: Supply Agreement · Technology: Telecom · Country: South Korea · Announced: 2026-09-24

Samsung Electronics has been selected as the exclusive vendor for South Korea's telecom giants KT and SK Telecom to deploy AI radio access network (RAN) solutions under the government's Hyper AI Network initiative. The agreement involves Samsung providing end-to-end network solutions based on virtual RAN (vRAN) via its AI-centric network in a server (NIS) to shipbuilder HD Hyundai Samho for physical AI applications and to SK Incheon Petrochem for autonomous patrol robots. The project aims to validate AI RAN capabilities and secure key technologies for the AI-native 6G era.

Analysis

Samsung Electronics was selected as the exclusive vendor to provide AI radio access network (RAN) solutions for South Korea's telecom operators KT and SK Telecom, as announced on 2026-09-24. SK Telecom is a leading South Korean telecommunications company that offers mobile, fixed-line, and media services and is actively investing in next‑generation infrastructure. KT is a South Korean telecom giant that is also a participant in the government’s Hyper AI Network initiative. The agreement calls for Samsung to deliver end‑to‑end AI‑centric network‑in‑a‑server (NIS) and virtual RAN (vRAN) technology to shipbuilder HD Hyundai Samho for physical AI applications and to SK Incheon Petrochem for autonomous patrol robots. The deal was announced in September 2026 and no financial terms were disclosed.

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