SKT to build 5G-powered traffic system in Seoul

SK Telecom (SKT) will build a next-generation traffic system powered by its super-fast fifth-generation (5G) networks in Seoul in a bid to offer safer roads, the mobile carrier said Thursday.

The firm said it and the Seoul Metropolitan Government will begin to verify a project dubbed Cooperative-Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS), aimed at constructing advanced transportation infrastructure combined with cutting-edge communications technologies by the end of 2020.

In the 25.4 billion won ($23 million) project, SKT will install 5G sensors at major roads in Seoul and offer 5G telecommunications terminal equipment to buses and taxis.

The firm will also build a control center tasked with collecting data and delivering information related to safety.

Buses and taxis equipped with 5G devices will communicate with stations and traffic lights frequently to collect data. SKT and the Seoul Metropolitan Government will analyze the data and deliver warnings to buses and taxis if any dangerous factors are detected.

The information is also delivered to general cars through SKT’s T Map navigation app to reduce the possibility of accidents.

The firm said the whole process takes less than 0.01 seconds under the 5G environment, and will help drivers respond more promptly to any dangerous situation.

Once the C-ITS is constructed, about 30 new services will be available to raise safety.