KT and Alcatel-Lucent have teamed up to test technology candidates for inclusion in 5G networks, including virtualized RAN technology.
The scope of the agreement also includes the development and testing of NGV and SDN technologies for 5G architectures, as well as 3GPP standardization activities.
Alcatel-Lucent first demonstrated its vRAN technology at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona on February.
KT CEO DongMyun Lee said the collaboration will allow the operator to help fulfil South Korea's strong appetite for mobile data, and to introduce new differentiated and personalized services for subscribers.
“KT recognizes Alcatel-Lucent as a global leader in vRAN and SDN,” he said. “We are eager to use their vRAN and SDN technology to help us implement the 5G architecture we have defined in our GiGatopia vision.”
KT's GiGatopia initiative involves developing a high-speed converged fixed and mobile network suited for data transport, the IoT and customized cloud-based services.
Alcatel-Lucent Korea head Chi Il Yoo added that the vendor is “fully aligned with KT's vision and committed to help KT in its strategic network evolution.
KT and Alcatel-Lucent announced a partnership to develop NFV technologies in October, and this new collaboration builds on that agreement.