South Korea is moving toward sixth generation cellular technology with a target to begin deployment as soon as 2028, well ahead of the target set in the K-Network 2030 plan. The Yonhap News Agency reports that the Ministry of Science and ICT is guiding this forward leap, signaling a major shift in the country’s communications strategy.
The push for 6G is tied to a broader ambition to keep South Korea at the forefront of global network infrastructure. Officials emphasize that the enhanced capabilities of 6G will come as electronic component supply chains recover and as innovative software ecosystems mature. Yonhap notes that these factors together are accelerating both planning and execution for the next network era.
A government feasibility study is underway to assess a comprehensive research and development program for 6G. The estimated investment for this initiative stands at roughly 481.7 million dollars, underscoring a serious commitment to early exploration, prototyping, and potential pilots across industries such as manufacturing, smart cities, and transport.
Industry analysis from IPlytics shows that South Korea already holds a substantial share of the global 5G patent portfolio, with a 25.9 percent slice and a position just behind China, which accounts for 26.8 percent. With the move to 6G, Korean authorities plan to push for a dominant share in patents and technology development, aiming for 30 percent or more in a new wave of innovation and leadership in wireless networks.
The trajectory of South Korea’s 6G plan aligns with broader trends in North America and global markets as countries seek faster speeds, lower latency, and more reliable connectivity. For Canada and the United States, Korea’s approach signals the kinds of government-supported, industry-integrated programs that may influence international collaboration, standard setting, and cross-border research partnerships.
In related context, it is noted that advances in satellite and ground-based infrastructure are expanding the reach of high-speed internet, a trend that supports a more connected economy in regions with varied access levels. As 5G continues to mature and 6G research ramps up, industries ranging from healthcare to transportation stand to benefit from new capabilities, including ultra-reliable low-latency communication and massive device connectivity. This ongoing evolution shapes investment decisions, workforce development, and policy considerations across North America and beyond.