[Edaily Reporter Kim Hyun-ah ] KTCorporation(030200)is set to conduct a pilot demonstration of a physical AI (artificial intelligence)-based autonomous operation network at a shipyard in collaboration with SamsungElectronics(005930) and HD HYUNDAI Samho. The project aims to validate next-generation communication technology in which AI controls communication networks in real time to ensure the stable operation of multiple industrial robots.

KTCorporation announced on the 14th that it has been selected as the preferred bidder for the “Hyper AI Network Infrastructure Development Project” led by the Ministry of Science and ICT and the National Information Society Agency (NIA).

The Hyper AI Network is a next-generation network in which AI intelligently operates the communication network to provide the ultra-low-latency, high-capacity communications required for Physical AI services. KTCorporation was the first telecommunications company in Korea to present the AI network as part of its 6G vision and is proceeding with this demonstration project based on its experience in building a commercial 5G Standalone (SA) network.

In this project, which will receive a total investment of 16 billion won through 2027, KTCorporation will build an AI-based autonomously operated network to validate a communication environment that enables the stable operation of multiple robots at industrial sites, such as shipyards. Key tasks include ▲building an autonomously operated network ▲demonstrating physical AI at industrial sites ▲and revitalizing the K-Telecom ecosystem.

KTCorporation will first develop the “AI-Core Orchestrator,” which uses AI to analyze network data in real time and automatically resolve network issues. To achieve this, the company plans to integrate its Network Data Analysis Function (NWDAF) with AI to train the system on communication patterns and performance data from the core network.

The physical AI demonstration will take place at the HD HYUNDAI Samho Shipyard. KTCorporation will implement an autonomous system based on an ultra-low-latency network, where AI analyzes and controls robot and equipment data in real time. The company plans to validate three types of physical AI services—AI welding robots, AI painting robots, and autonomous operation robots for telecommunications stations—to verify their effectiveness in improving safety and productivity at high-risk industrial sites.

KTCorporation will carry out this project through a consortium comprising SamsungElectronics, HD HYUNDAI Samho, Solid, Ariel Networks, Woori-Net Co., Ltd., and Yonsei University. At the KT R&D Center in Umyeon-dong, the company plans to establish a multi-vendor testbed to jointly validate equipment from SamsungElectronics and domestic small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and to jointly develop base station power-saving technology and low-power 5G terminals (RedCap).

KTCorporation plans to expand the application of the AI-driven autonomous network technology secured through this project to various industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and energy, and to strengthen its platform business supporting corporate AX (Artificial Intelligence Transformation).

Lee Jong-sik, Head of KTCorporation’s Future Network Lab (Executive Vice President), said, “Based on our top-tier network operation capabilities in Korea, we will secure core technologies for the 6G era and contribute to strengthening the competitiveness of the national telecommunications equipment industry by expanding the Hyper AI ecosystem.”