South Korea announced on Monday that it plans to launch its own sixth generation (6G) network in 2028. Under the K-Network 2030 plan, South Korea will provide “premium” 6G technology, “next generation mobile network” and strengthen the network supply chain.

At the same time, the government will encourage local companies to manufacture equipment, parts and materials for 6G technology in South Korea. It will also develop an open radio access network compatible with any device, allowing mobile operators and businesses to offer flexible services. To make all this possible, South Korea is conducting a feasibility study for a research and development project for key 6G technologies. The cost of the project is 625.3 billion won (~$482 million).

According to the country’s Ministry of Science and ICT, the country is making these efforts to achieve future wireless frequency dominance as soon as possible. The plan also aims to help the country maintain its position in the global competition for future network infrastructure. A report by IP intelligence company IPlytics revealed that although the development of 4G technology is largely dominated by American and European companies, South Korean companies are taking the lead in 5G development. South Korea accounted for the most 25.9% of 5G patents last year. It aims to achieve 30% or more success in the competition for 6G patents.