The partnership will focus on driving innovation in areas including AI-powered Radio Access Networks (RAN), performance, security and energy efficiency. It will also focus on further advancements in 5G to support new services and business opportunities.

As a result, the partnership will remain in effect until 2 March 2031.

Additionally, the telecom giants will also work on developing open and autonomous networks to improve efficiency and strengthen security through zero trust architecture and ongoing monitoring across both 5G Advanced and future 6G networks.

Ericsson and SK Telecom also unveiled plans to partner on 6G technologies and standardisation, including spectrum strategy, energy efficiency and Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC), in a bid to build a strong position in the future 6G ecosystem.

Ericsson head of networks strategy and product management, Mårten Lerner, said: “We’re pleased to deepen our partnership with SK Telecom to accelerate AI‑powered RAN, 5G monetisation, open autonomous networks and zero‑trust security – while laying the groundwork for AI‑native 6G. 

“Together we’ll move rapidly from standards and trials to commercial solutions that boost performance, energy efficiency and security – strengthening South Korea’s leadership in next‑generation connectivity.”

SK Telecom head of network technology office, Yu Takki: “Our collaboration with Ericsson will be a core engine propelling the evolution of AI-powered networks, paving the way toward 6G.

 “Through research focused on global standardisation and real-world validation, we aim to secure world-class technological leadership in AI-powered network evolution and 6G.”

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