**KT to Expand AI-RAN Technology Implementation After Initial Deployment in Naju**
**[Seoul = Newsis] Reporter Eunbi Park** – KT announced on the 26th that it has begun testing AI-based Radio Access Network (AI-RAN) technology on its commercial 5G network.
AI-RAN is next-generation communication network technology that analyzes traffic data exchanged between base stations and network servers in real-time to provide an optimal network environment. Base stations equipped with AI-RAN technology use a dedicated AI engine to optimize wireless resources by assessing the signal status and traffic patterns in real-time. This test is being conducted in the Naju area of South Jeolla Province, using Nokia’s latest 5G base station equipment with an embedded AI-specific processor.
Based on the test results, KT plans to launch AI-RAN as a commercial service and gradually expand its implementation to other regions. The company states that this is the first instance of implementing AI-RAN in a commercial 5G network in South Korea.
AI-RAN is considered essential technology for the 6G era, and this 5G-based AI RAN test is a crucial preliminary step for its development. KT plans to optimize and enhance AI-RAN technology on commercial networks and proactively establish technical specifications and operational standards required for 6G.
The primary AI-RAN features being introduced by KT into its commercial network are twofold. Firstly, a machine learning-based channel estimation function, which predicts and transmits how accurately radio signals from base stations reach terminals, significantly affects the quality of wireless communication. AI models learn complex signal patterns, enabling precise estimation of signal strength changes based on wireless environments. This reduces data loss and delays, ensuring stable communication quality while allowing more data to be transmitted on the same frequency.
Secondly, machine learning-based MU-MIMO is a technology that simultaneously sends data to multiple users using the same frequency and time resources. AI analyzes each terminal’s signal direction and traffic situation instantly to find user combinations with minimal interference. This increases the data volume that a base station can transmit within the same timeframe, enhancing overall processing capacity and allowing users to experience faster speeds and superior quality.
Kwon Hyejin, head of KT’s Network Strategy Headquarters, stated, “AI RAN not only enhances customer-perceived quality but is also essential for the 6G era. KT will take the lead in network innovation by verifying and introducing AI RAN in commercial networks first, continuing to strengthen its technological leadership.”