Replacing the information transmission section using optical cables with wireless
Gigabit Internet speeds can be provided even in areas where infrastructure is difficult to build.

KT announced that it has successfully conducted a field test of its '5G WTTx (Wireless To The x)' solution to secure gigabit internet coverage via 5G at the top of the ski jump at the Alpensia Stadium, where the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics will be held.

WTTx is a solution that replaces the section where information is transmitted via optical cables with wireless. It has the advantage of being able to provide gigabit internet-level wireless speeds even in locations and environments where it is difficult to build infrastructure.

In this test, KT collaborated with Samsung Electronics to wirelessly connect a 5G base station built at the 'Pyeongchang 5G Center' in Alpensia Main Stadium with a 5G terminal located at the top lounge of the Alpensia Ski Jump, 420m away, using a 5G WTTx solution, and succeeded in achieving gigabit internet coverage.

The Alpensia Ski Jump Lounge is a resting space provided not only to officials participating in ski jumping competitions but also to the general public; however, high-speed internet service was impossible because the installation of fiber optic cables was difficult due to the building's structure and high location.

KT explained that it is researching and developing various solutions that can provide tangible benefits to customers in the commercialized 5G environment, and that 5G WTTx, which can overcome the environmental limitations of existing wired internet such as fiber optic cable construction, is one of the representative 5G solutions being developed by KT.

Going forward, KT plans to expand the application of its 5G WTTx solution to islands and mountainous regions across the country, starting with Pyeongchang. In addition, based at the Pyeongchang 5G Center, we plan to continuously conduct field tests of 5G technologies, such as WTTx solutions, in preparation for the Pyeongchang 5G pilot service and commercialization.

"This field test is a preparatory step to provide 5G WTTx-based broadband communication infrastructure to islands and mountainous regions where it is difficult to provide gigabit internet communication infrastructure," said Seo Chang-seok, Executive Vice President and Head of KT's Network Strategy Division. "KT plans to develop various solutions such as 5G WTTx to prepare for the 5G pilot service to be showcased in Pyeongchang, as well as for the early commercialization of 5G thereafter."