South Korea’s No. 1 mobile network operator SK Telecom discussed how to create an ecosystem for 5G technology with global firms and ventures at a forum in Seoul on Tuesday.

“SKT is currently working on developing differentiated services with advanced technology to greatly improve user experience,” said Jang Dong-hyun, chief executive of the Korean mobile carrier, in an opening speech at the global ICT developer forum.

“The company also plans to boost support for small-and medium-sized firms in research and development of 5G so that SMEs can find new business opportunities and bring value for customers,” he added.

Around 400 officials from global ICT firms, including Samsung Electronics, Intel, Nokia and Qualcomm, Korean government agencies and colleges, participated in the Tuesday event.

Among those who joined panel discussions were Magnus Ewerbring, chief technology officer of Ericson’s Asia-Pacific division, and Thomas Sennhauser, chief technology officer of HP’s Asia-Pacific division.

HP’s CTO emphasized the importance of open network platforms in the 5G era, garnering support from the audience.

SKT’s 5G-support robot, which can be remotely controlled by a user wearing a sensor suit, generated attention from participants at the meeting, according to the Korean telco firm.

“The 5G robot, which can be used in hazardous industrial business sites or areas stricken by natural disasters, is a prime example of what 5G technology really can do,” an SKT official said.

The Korean wireless carrier has held the developers’ forum for the past two consecutive years, and has published a 5G white paper for the first time in Korea, which presents the direction of 5G network development.

By Kim Young-won (wone0102@heraldcorp.com)