Seoul: KT Corp., a South Korean telecommunications operator, has unveiled a significant investment plan worth around 18 trillion won (US$11.8 billion) aimed at transforming the company into a platform leader in artificial intelligence (AI). This strategic initiative was announced by the company's CEO, Park Yoon-young, during a press conference held in central Seoul, marking his first public address since assuming the role in March.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the ambitious transformation, dubbed the "AX Platform Company" initiative, outlines a comprehensive investment of 12 trillion won over the next three years in cybersecurity, IT, and network infrastructures. The plan includes a concentrated effort to enhance KT's cybersecurity capabilities under a zero-trust principle, alongside IT innovation. KT is also focused on securing leadership in emerging network technologies, including 6G and satellites, while simultaneously improving its existing network services.

Further expanding on AI infrastructure, KT plans to allocate 5 trillion won towards the development of AI data centers with a total capacity of 1 gigawatt. These centers are expected to provide the ultra-low latency and real-time inference environments crucial for advancements in physical AI and autonomous driving technologies.

Additionally, 1 trillion won has been earmarked for the enhancement of data traffic solutions through the construction of submarine cables with a capacity exceeding 90 terabits per second. KT intends to collaborate with a global big tech company to secure the necessary capital for this venture, although specific details of the partnership were not disclosed.

Beyond AI, KT Corp. is set to innovate in the digital economy by establishing a token factory, integrating AI data centers with token optimization engines, and venturing into stable coin-related businesses. Park expressed the company's ambition to extend its AI transformation efforts into the Southeast Asian market, aiming to achieve 1 trillion won in global sales by 2030.

"We will build on the solid growth of our core business as a telecom operator, so that Korea can emerge as a leading AI transformation, or AX, nation," KT stated, underscoring its commitment to positioning South Korea at the forefront of AI innovation.