SKT plots AI-powered path to 6G

SK Telecom has set out a long-term roadmap for 6G, built around what it calls an AI-native network. The company expects 6G commercial launches around 2030 and plans to redesign its radio, core and transport networks with AI, zero trust security and cloud-native systems at the centre. The aim is to cut operating costs, improve service quality and open new ways to make money from the network.

The roadmap has two tracks: “AI for Network” and “Network for AI”. The first embeds AI into day-to-day network operations so systems can analyse data in real time and adjust themselves. The second focuses on tuning the network to support AI-heavy services, including humanoid robots and satellite links. SKT plans AI-based optimisation of its RAN, higher automation in core and transport networks, and a broader data platform to support new AI services. It continues to push its views in standards groups such as 3GPP, ITU, the O-RAN Alliance and the AI-RAN Alliance, and plans to show related technologies, including AI agents for networks, AI-RAN and integrated sensing, at MWC26 Barcelona.