| Cloud Native Microservices
Focus on performance improvement and optimization through
| Increase infrastructure utilization through scaling

Ericsson and SK Telecom announced on the 25th that they have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly pursue technological improvements across a wide range of areas, including technology, architecture, implementation, and operation of next-generation 5G SA core networks.
This agreement focused on performance improvement and optimization through cloud-native microservices.

Due to the rapid introduction of 5G networks and services and the increase in data traffic, telecommunications operators need to build more agile and programmable 5G core networks for automated, simplified, and efficient network operations.

Cloud-native microservices architecture, based on container-based lightweight virtualization and orchestration mechanisms such as Kubernetes, simplifies and refines software lifecycle management, enabling a high level of automation and stable network operations.

SK Telecom and Ericsson have been working together for a long time to build high-performance, high-availability solutions through state-optimized design and microservices architecture.We plan to collaborate closely. Based on this, we intend to enhance infrastructure utilization through faster handling of simultaneous failures and flexible, granular scaling. Furthermore, we anticipate shortening the time required for feature improvements through independent lifecycles and in-service software upgrades for each service.

Peo Lehto, General Manager of Packet Core at Ericsson Solutions Line, said, “Ericsson and SKT have long collaborated closely on 5G innovation, and through this MOU, we can accelerate the evolution of 5G core networks to introduce profitable 5G services and use cases. We are pleased to be able to work together on new cloud-native 5G core network capabilities needed to introduce various new 5G services through our collaboration.”

Park Jong-kwan, Head of the SK Telecom 5GX Lab, said, “After successfully building the 5G NSA network, SK Telecom is preparing to migrate to the 5G SA network and is ready to provide customers with the latest and best technologies and services. This collaboration with Ericsson on next-generation 5G SA core and cloud-native principles not only enables the faster introduction of new services but also pursues high availability of the 5G network through efficient and simplified operations.”