SKT, Sogang University, and Sejong University Sign MoU for Joint Operation of IoT Platform Service Development Curriculum

SK Telecom announced on the 18th that it has introduced 'ThingPlug,' an IoT platform that supports anyone in easily developing IoT (Internet of Things) services and applying them to real life, into the regular curriculum of universities.

On this day, SK Telecom and Sogang University and Sejong University signed an agreement at the SK Telecom headquarters in Euljiro for the "joint operation of a ThingPlug-based IoT service development curriculum." Starting this first semester, SK Telecom plans to provide education on 'ThingPlug' to undergraduate computer engineering students at Sogang University and Sejong University, which are designated as software-focused universities, and to offer opportunities for understanding and practical training on the overall IoT platform.

'ThingPlug' is an IoT platform based on the international standard 'oneM2M', and is an open platform capable of interoperability with standard-compliant devices and applications. SK Telecom pursued the development of an IoT platform based on international standards and unveiled 'ThingPlug' last June.

'ThingPlug' is characterized by providing a 'service platform' function that allows developers to easily utilize IoT services, as well as a 'DIY development environment' that enables them to create their own desired IoT services.

“We expect that by directly designing IoT services through the newly established curriculum, students will be able to enhance their expertise not only in understanding IoT theory but also through actual development experience,” the company stated. “SK Telecom will continue to drive the creation of the IoT market and the development of the ecosystem based on the 'ThingPlug' platform in preparation for the IoT era.”

IoT devices can be manufactured by combining motherboards, sensors, etc.

Students can build their own IoT devices by combining motherboards, sensors, and other components based on Software Development Kits (SDKs), and can also develop the services they need themselves. Once developed, the devices and services can be used immediately after registering them on the web portal.

Through the curriculum, students can gain experience in developing IoT devices and services and acquire technical skills applicable to actual industrial settings. SK Telecom plans to cultivate skilled professionals who can be immediately deployed to the software development field in the industry, and will provide benefits such as awards for the implementation of creative ideas and bonus points for the IoT competition 'Hackathon' upon completion of the program.

"We expect that university students will be able to enhance their expertise through actual development experience and gain a better understanding of IoT theory by directly designing IoT services through this newly established curriculum," said Cha In-hyeok, Head of the Platform Technology Institute at SK Telecom. "SK Telecom will continue to drive the creation of the IoT market and the development of the ecosystem based on the 'ThingPlug' platform in preparation for the IoT era."

Meanwhile, SK Telecom, which serves as the president of the Korea Internet of Things Association, announced on the 16th the 'IoT Total Care' program, which includes building a nationwide IoT network, establishing an integrated IoT control center, and developing dedicated IoT modules.