The National Information Society Agency (NIA) announced on the 18th that it will participate as a member of the next-generation infrastructure 'AI-RAN Alliance,' which combines AI with wireless communication technology (RAN, Radio Access Network).
AI-RAN is a key infrastructure to realize physical AI, such as humanoid robots, drones, and autonomous vehicles. The AI-RAN Alliance is a council that includes global leaders in AI and communication, such as NVIDIA, Microsoft, SoftBank, Ericsson, and Samsung Electronics, participating in the 'MWC 2024' held in Barcelona, Spain. The AI-RAN Alliance aims to optimize expenses through the utilization of AI for resource and energy efficiency in communication networks and to enhance autonomous operation and flexibility of communication networks.
Through its participation in this alliance, the NIA plans to promote innovative projects that integrate AI technology into wireless communication, and to discover innovative AI services in various fields, such as public service, disaster response, and defense. Additionally, it intends to lead the establishment of world-class AI wireless infrastructure in collaboration with local corporations, universities, research institutes, and related organizations.
NIA plans to develop AI-RAN in conjunction with Open-RAN, 5G Advanced (5G-A) testbeds, and next-generation network leading networks (KOREN). Through this, the three domestic telecommunications companies expect to advance from network automation to ultra-intelligent networks, reduce operating costs, and create new revenue sources.
NIA President Hwang Jong-seong noted, "If Korea commercializes AI-RAN for the first time in the world, it will be an important opportunity to gain an advantage in the global AI infrastructure competition, as we possess one of the world's best information and communication networks."