SKT Strengthens Its “Win-Win” Partnership with Startups, Aiming to Foster 500 Innovative Companies by 2030

[Financial News] SK Telecom is strengthening its “win-win” partnership with startups by combining its artificial intelligence (AI) technology and business capabilities to identify new business opportunities. The company plans to foster 500 innovative companies by 2030 and expand joint ventures with startups.
SK Telecom said its CEO, Jung Jae-heon, met with eight startup representatives at SKT Tower in Jung-gu, Seoul, on the 16th to hear about the challenges they face while pursuing their businesses and discuss ways for both sides to grow together.
The meeting was organized to hear directly from those working in the field during startup development and collaboration efforts and to explore ways to create greater synergy. CEO Jung has continued communicating with startup representatives since meeting them at Mobile World Congress (MWC) in March.
SKT employees involved in joint projects with startups also attended the event and shared examples of actual collaboration and ways to create synergies.
Sierra Base, a company specializing in drone-based AI infrastructure safety-inspection solutions, is working with SKT in the field of small autonomous drones. The company plans to automate safety inspections that were previously performed by people climbing communication towers, using AI, and develop new business models based on the technology.
SKT has identified and supported startups since 2013, and this year upgraded its development program with the goal of achieving mutual growth. Through its startup collaboration platform, “SKTCH,” the company provides expert mentoring, opportunities to identify partnerships with SKT, business development support, participation in domestic and international exhibitions, and assistance in attracting investment. Its goal is to foster 500 innovative companies over five years through 2030.
CEO Jung said, "Startups are important partners with whom SKT can create new business opportunities and success stories in the AI era. We will continue listening to voices from the field and expand collaboration that connects our respective strengths to generate tangible growth."
 
[email protected] Yoon Hong-jip Reporter