Samsung chairman emphasizes ‘unwavering’ focus on 6G

Samsung Electronics Executive Chairman Lee Jae-yong visited the Samsung Research Center in southern Seoul in 2021 to observe the development of 6G networks. [Samsung Electronics]

Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong visited the Samsung Research Center in Woomyeong-dong, south of Seoul, on Wednesday and emphasized “unwavering” investment in next-generation communication technologies, including 6G.

This was Lee’s first public comment this year.

Samsung Research oversees the development of next-generation communications technology, AI robots, and healthcare.

Communication technology is one of the main future growth drivers for this electronics manufacturer. Mr. Lee personally oversaw the establishment of a dedicated 5G organization when the company began developing 5G technology in 2011.

Samsung Research established a 6G specialized department in 2019 and held its first 6G forum in 2022.

Mr. Lee, who visited the center to observe the progress of 6G research and development, told the center that 6G network development is critical to the commercialization of innovative products such as AI and autonomous driving. He called on the government to take on the challenge of securing new technologies such as parking. and extended reality to people’s daily lives.

“Sourcing new technology is critical to the survival and future of the company,” Lee said. “The need for unwavering research, development and investment in new technologies is critical, especially in difficult times of a slowing global economy, accelerating industrial restructuring, and a volatile global geopolitical situation.”

Academics predict that standardization work on 6G will begin in 2025, with commercialization expected in 2030.

Written by Lee Jae Rim [lee.jaelim@joongang.co.kr]