KT succeeds 5G NTN satellite communication

South Korea's KT Corp. and its satellite subsidiary KT SAT said on Monday their integration of KOREASAT 6 with a terrestrial 5G network, utilizing the 5G non-terrestrial network (NTN) standard.

This achievement marks a global first in applying the 5G NTN standard to a geostationary satellite, paving the way for expanded 5G connectivity in remote and underserved regions.

The test was conducted at KT SAT’s Geumsan Satellite Center in collaboration with satellite communication partners Rohde & Schwarz Korea and Viavi Solutions Korea.

5G NTN technology extends the reach of 5G by leveraging satellites to provide broader coverage, particularly in areas where traditional networks face limitations—such as overseas, in the air, and across rugged mountainous terrains.

Although data transmission speeds via satellite are slower than terrestrial 5G, 5G NTN plays a crucial role in ensuring connectivity where conventional networks are unavailable or unreliable.

KT overcame the technical challenges posed by the satellite’s 35,800-kilometer orbit, effectively reducing the signal delay and demonstrating the viability of 5G NTN for robust, satellite-based communications.

KT aims to develop NTN technology compatible with aerospace communication platforms that adhere to the 3GPP 5G NTN standard.

These platforms include medium-earth orbit (MEO) satellites, low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites, and high-altitude platform systems (HAPS).

Write to Ji-Eun Jeong at jeong@hankyung.com