[Edaily Reporter Lee So-Hyun ] SKTelecom(017670)is expanding its lineup of smart devices and benefits for sports events to target customers who enjoy running. The company plans to develop the “RunMate” program, which bundles wearable devices essential for runners, discounts on data plans, and opportunities to participate in running events.

SKTelecom announced on the 2nd that it will expand its lineup of smart devices preferred by runners and introduce new products and benefits that provide opportunities to participate in running events.

First, SKTelecom is introducing products from Garmin, a global GPS smart device brand, and Shokz, an open-ear headphone brand.

The Garmin products are the running GPS smartwatches “Forerunner 70” and “Forerunner 265.” Among these, the Forerunner 70 is the only product SKTelecom is introducing as the sole mobile carrier in Korea through an exclusive partnership with Garmin. The Forerunner 70 is an entry-level model suitable for customers who are new to running or who want to track their daily workouts. The Forerunner 265 is designed for customers who want to utilize professional running data and training features.

Among Shokz products, the company is launching the “OpenRun Pro 2” bone conduction earbuds. The OpenRun Pro 2 addresses the limitations of bone conduction earbuds in bass reproduction and is gaining popularity among runners.

Garmin watches and Shokz earbuds have been added to the list of devices eligible for SKTelecom’s “Smart Device Installment Discount” benefit. Customers on the Best Max, Best Pro, Best 109, and Direct 5G 76 rate plans can opt for this benefit. Customers on the Best Max plan who select the Smart Device Installment Discount can receive a discount of up to 24,000 won per month on their device installment payments.

The newly introduced Garmin and Shokz products can be purchased on the T Direct Shop website and at SKTelecom retail stores nationwide. Products will be shipped separately.

Starting with Garmin and Shokz products, SKTelecom plans to continue expanding its lineup of smart devices tailored to customers’ exercise styles and skill levels.

Benefits tied to running events have also been arranged. SKTelecom is participating as the main sponsor of the “2026 Infinite Challenge Run in Gyeongju,” which will take place in Gyeongju on September 19.

Customers who purchase the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold8, or Galaxy Z Flip8 from SKTelecom can enter a raffle for entry tickets to the Infinite Challenge Run in Gyeongju. Customers who purchase a smart device while subscribed to a qualifying rate plan that offers installment payment discounts will receive additional entry opportunities.

Customers wishing to participate can enter the drawing by selecting their preferred course—either the 10 km or half-marathon course—on the promotion page by the 31st. SKTelecom will award participation tickets to a total of 2,000 people through a random drawing. Each of the 1,000 winners will receive two tickets per person.

This event is being held under the “Sunset Run” concept, featuring a route through Gyeongju’s historical and cultural sites. In addition to the existing 10 km course, a half-marathon course has been newly added this year. After finishing the race, participants can also enjoy a performance featuring the cast of “Infinite Challenge” and various artists.

SKTelecom has long provided benefits and experiences for its running customers. Earlier this year, it gave away tickets to “Pokémon Run 2026 in Seoul” and the “Chuncheon Marathon 2026” through a lottery. The introduction of these Garmin and Shokz products, along with the “Infinite Challenge Run in Gyeongju” entry ticket event, was also organized to provide runners with a unique experience.

SKTelecom plans to continue expanding its offerings for runners by bundling products and benefits under the “Runmate” program. Moving forward, the company intends to increase partnerships with specialized running brands and introduce products and services that support runners’ exercise experiences.

Yoon Jae-woong, Head of the Product & Brand Division at SKTelecom, said, “We have prepared new products and benefits so that customers who enjoy running can more conveniently purchase the wearable devices they need and enjoy a variety of running experiences,” adding, “We will continue to strive to provide differentiated experiences for our runner customers.”