The launch of 6G is brought forward to 2028 in South Korea. The country is planning an early start to ensure its dominance on future frequencies.
6G in South Korea is for 2028. The Ministry of Science and ICT made the announcement this week. Originally, the launch was planned for 2030, as in Europe, but the government prefers to shorten the deadlines. “The advanced plan aims to help the country retain its leading position in the global competition for future network infrastructure”the ministry told the agency Yonhap.
To achieve this, South Korea is counting on its “K-Network 2030” plan. In concrete terms, the stated objective is to remain at the forefront of innovation on mobile networks. According to the ministry, the K-Network must ensure “world-class 6G technologies” et “strengthen the network supply chain”. At the same time, the country wants to encourage local companies to produce materials and equipment for the development of 6G.
One third of patents
Moreover, there is one last point on which the government insists. Thus, the network must be open and compatible with all mobile devices on the market. The idea is to allow operators and companies to offer flexible services. Of course, all of this has a cost. The government has already commissioned a feasibility study for a research and development project on 6G technologies. In all, more than 452 million euros have been invested in this study. But the game is worth the candle. At least, from the point of view of decision makers.
Eventually, South Korea hopes to hold at least 30% of 6G patents. An ambitious goal, certainly, but not unattainable. Indeed, the country accounted for more than 25% of 5G patents in 2022. Its only competitor? China, with almost 27% market share. While European and American companies dominated the race for 4G, the trend has since largely reversed. Obviously, it’s not regarding to stop.
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