
Unlike traditional communication methods that transmit all data elements, semantic communication leverages artificial intelligence to understand the meaning and context behind data, extracting and conveying only the essential information. (Image credit: KT)
SEOUL, June 30 (Korea Bizwire) — South Korea’s KT Corp. announced plans Monday to secure global leadership in next-generation telecommunications by advancing semantic communication — a cutting-edge technology designed to transform how data is transmitted in the AI-powered 6G era.
Unlike traditional communication methods that transmit all data elements, semantic communication leverages artificial intelligence to understand the meaning and context behind data, extracting and conveying only the essential information. KT likened it to human conversation, where comprehension is achieved without parsing every sound.
The technology is considered a key enabler of AI-native networks — infrastructures where artificial intelligence is deeply embedded in their architecture. Industry experts say it could be critical for future applications like autonomous driving, remote robotic control, and immersive holographic communication.
Since October last year, KT has been testing the technology internally in video and voice transmission scenarios — areas where users are highly sensitive to quality and data consumption. The trials demonstrated that semantic communication could drastically reduce data loads without sacrificing the perceived quality or accuracy of content.
KT believes the technology, once commercialized, could deliver stable high-quality media services even in congested networks or limited-bandwidth environments like satellite communications.
To accelerate development and commercialization, KT is partnering with the globally renowned Nokia Bell Labs. The two organizations signed a cooperation agreement earlier this year and held a joint “6G & Semantic Communication Technology Workshop” at Bell Labs’ U.S. headquarters in May.
The partnership will focus on developing semantic transmission algorithms, conducting end-to-end performance validation, and contributing to global 6G standardization efforts.
“Semantic communication is a breakthrough that redefines the very function of networks by fusing AI with telecom infrastructure,” said Lee Jong-sik, head of KT’s Future Network Research Lab. “KT is committed to enhancing its research capabilities and collaborating with world-class partners like Bell Labs to lead the 6G era and drive innovation as an AICT (AI + ICT) company.”
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)