SK Telecom has intensified its global artificial intelligence strategy at Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2026, with CEO Jung Jaihun meeting leaders from major telecom groups to accelerate collaboration in AI data centers (AIDCs), AI foundation models, and next-generation network technologies.
SKT Hosts AIDC Conference to Redefine Telco Infrastructure for the AI Era
On March 2 in Barcelona, SKT hosted its AIDC Conference under the theme “Redesigning Telco Infra for the Next Phase of AI,” outlining a bold roadmap for telecom operators to evolve into AI infrastructure leaders.
The conference brought together top executives including Chung Suk-geun, CTO and Head of SKT’s AI Company-in-Company; Bill Chang, CEO of Singtel Digital InfraCo; Sabri Albreiki, CTO of e& international; Khalid Murshed, CEO of e& enterprise; and Tadao Yanase, Chief Business Development Officer at NTT.
In his keynote address, CEO Jung highlighted that telecom operators possess proprietary infrastructure and deep operational expertise essential for building scalable AI ecosystems. He stressed that telcos must go beyond secure data transmission and take a proactive role in designing and operating AI infrastructure platforms.
Introduction of Sovereign AI Package Powered by A.X K1
A key highlight of the event was SKT’s Sovereign AI Package, an integrated solution that combines:
AIDC infrastructure leveraging SK Group capabilities
SKT’s proprietary AI foundation model, A.X K1
AI services customized for enterprise and industrial applications
The strategy focuses on building domestically controlled AI infrastructure while ensuring data sovereignty. By developing an AI foundation model that understands local language and culture, SKT aims to protect national AI interests while delivering practical AI solutions validated in real industrial environments.
Panel discussions addressed AIDC innovation, regulatory frameworks, and strategic collaboration. Participants agreed that AI data centers demand massive power supply, high-performance computing systems, and ultra-high-speed connectivity, making cross-border telecom collaboration critical for efficiency and scalability.
Strategic AI Talks with e&, Orange and Deutsche Telekom
Jung Jaihun met with e& Group CEO Hatem Dowidar and Group Chief Strategy Officer Harrison Lung to deepen cooperation in global AI infrastructure expansion.
Jung is scheduled to hold his first CEO-level meeting with Christel Heydemann and Bruno Zerbib of Orange Group, which serves approximately 340 million customers across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The discussions are expected to focus on AI infrastructure, next-generation networks, and innovation collaboration.
SKT will advance AI cooperation talks with long-time partner Deutsche Telekom. Jung’s meeting with CEO Tim Hottges will showcase SKT’s AIDC architecture, its experience in developing A.X K1, and its AI-powered Radio Access Network technologies.
Building a Trusted Global AI Infrastructure Ecosystem
Jung emphasized that competitiveness in the AI era depends not only on advanced algorithms but also on how infrastructure is architected, interconnected, and governed. SKT’s strategy positions telecom operators as core architects of trusted AI ecosystems that integrate cloud, edge, and network intelligence.
Through sovereign AI development, global partnerships, and next-generation telecom innovation, SK Telecom is positioning itself at the forefront of AI-driven digital transformation, reinforcing the evolving role of telecom operators as foundational AI infrastructure providers worldwide.
SHAFANA FAZAL