(MWC 19) S. Korea, GMSA sign MOU on 5G cooperation

By Kim Eun-jung

BARCELONA, Feb. 26 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT said Tuesday it will work with GSMA, an international trade body that represents mobile network operators, to promote 5G technology and share successful cases in various areas.

The ministry and GSMA signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), calling for collaboration on 5G technology, equipment and service, during MWC 2019, the world's largest mobile show hosted by GSMA.

South Korea launched 5G service for selected businesses in December and plans to roll out broader commercial service next month when 5G smartphones start reaching consumers.

The Seoul government said it will provide useful information on 5G technology and share its applications in transportation, factories and the public sector, with GSMA to promote 5G technology based successful implementations.

"The MOU is expected to spread South Korea's 5G business models and integrated policies, through GSMA, to promote Korean equipment and services in the global market," the ministry said. "It is expected to help South Korea play an important role in setting the global standard for 5G."

Together with local companies, the ministry said it will invest 170 billion won (US$152 million) in an array of 5G-based projects, including smart factory, smart city, autonomous vehicles and disaster relief, by 2020.

The GSMA represents the interests of mobile operators worldwide, more than 750 operators with over 350 companies in the broader mobile ecosystem.

ejkim@yna.co.kr
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