SKT Tests On-Premise AI Chip Integration Across Its Servers

Tech
By 24matins.uk,  published 26 June 2025 at 15h41, updated on 26 June 2025 at 15h41.
Tech

SK Telecom is testing a domestically developed AI chip within its servers, marking a significant step in advancing local semiconductor technology. This move highlights the company's ongoing efforts to boost South Korea’s self-reliance in artificial intelligence infrastructure.

Tl;dr

  • SKT and Rebellions test next-gen NPU for AI services.
  • Korea aims for AI sovereignty with local chip solutions.
  • AI revenue at SKT up 20% amid strategic shifts.

    • Strategic Alliances Fuel Korea’s AI Aspirations

    As global competition intensifies, South Korea is charting an ambitious course to secure its technological sovereignty. At the forefront, SK Telecom (SKT) and startup Rebellions have united around a shared vision: fortifying the national artificial intelligence ecosystem against international giants. Recent moves—like the 15-year strategic deal between conglomerate SK Group and Amazon Web Services (AWS) to establish a dedicated AI Zone in Ulsan by 2027—underscore just how determined these players are. This center will leverage AWS’s latest tools, including SageMaker and Bedrock, within an infrastructure optimized for large-scale AI: think dedicated servers, UltraCluster technology, and hybrid cooling systems.

    NPU Atom: From Testing to Large-Scale Deployment?

    Meanwhile, across Seoul, attention has shifted to on-the-ground innovation. In recent months, SKT has begun piloting the second-generation « Atom » NPU, designed by Rebellions, in its server farms. The aim? To power advanced offerings like SKT’s AI-powered personal assistant. There’s a tangible sense of anticipation: both companies expect the results of these trials will determine if wider rollout is feasible by year’s end. If performance meets expectations, SKT plans to expand the deployment of these homegrown NPU servers across its specialized AI data centers.

    Here are the immediate objectives both firms share:

  • Integrate improved NPUs for high-scale AI inference tasks.
  • Pave the way for domestic chips running advanced LLM services.
  • Catalyze further innovation within Korea’s tech ecosystem.

    • A National Imperative for Technological Independence

    For industry leaders, this isn’t just about technical progress—it’s a matter of strategic necessity. Lee Sang-min, who leads Business Growth Promotion at SKT, observes that « the strengthening of our AI ecosystem’s independence is key to Korea’s competitiveness ». Echoing this sentiment, Park Sung-hyun, CEO of Rebellions, emphasizes that running LLM services on locally designed chips « goes beyond technical achievement; it marks a turning point for Korea’s domestic AI autonomy ».

    Sustained Momentum and Economic Impact

    This wave of collaboration also reflects broader sector consolidation. Following its recent merger with Sapeon Korea, another SKT-backed entity, Rebellions now positions itself as a force to be reckoned with in the global market for AI semiconductors. The payoff is becoming evident: while telecom revenues have plateaued, SKT’s AI-driven business activities have soared—reportedly rising by approximately 20% in 2024 alone. Ultimately, this momentum demonstrates how established groups and dynamic startups are betting together on homegrown technologies pivotal to South Korea’s industrial future.