SK Telecom plots 15GW AI data center expansion across South Korea
SK Telecom plans 15GW AI data center expansion, with operations starting in 2027.
Event / Technology
South Korea AI Infrastructure Expansion
SK Telecom announces construction of 15GW AI data center as part of South Korea's 'AI G3' strategy to become a top three AI power globally. Project includes facilities in Ulsan, Gyeongsang, and Jeolla with phased activation starting 2029.
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2026-08-16 to 2026-11-13 · UTC publication dates
Coverage begins 5 Jul, 22:22 UTC
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1GW-class AI data center construction estimated to cost approximately KRW 70 trillion
Constructing a typical 1GW-class AI data center may require a substantial project cost reaching approximately KRW 70 trillion. Costs are expected to be financed through SK Telecom's own investment, strategic partner investment, long-term customer contracts, and project financing.
SK Group to consolidate AI infrastructure capabilities across affiliates
SK Group is bringing together its full-stack AI infrastructure capabilities across its affiliates, with SK Telecom taking the central role of leading design, construction, and operation of the AI data centers. The group holds core capabilities including semiconductors, energy solutions, and data center construction and operation expertise.
SK Telecom plans AI Factory operations to begin in 2027
SK Telecom announced plans to operate an 'AI Factory,' described as a next-generation AI data center. SKT plans to begin AI Factory operations in 2027 and expand it to GW scale.
SK Telecom announces 15GW AI data center construction plan
SK Telecom announced plans to construct an AI data center with a capacity of up to 15GW, with the goal of establishing Korea as a leading AI infrastructure hub in Asia. The project is linked to the government's 'AI G3' strategy, which aims to position Korea alongside the U.S. and China as one of the world's top three AI powers.
Ulsan AI Data Center to reach 5GW capacity by 2029, expanding to 15GW total
SKT plans to activate 5GW of AI data center capacity in stages beginning in 2029, ultimately reaching 15GW total. The centerpiece is the Ulsan AI Data Center, which will expand to GW scale. SKT will build a 2GW cluster in the southeastern Gyeongsang region and an additional 1GW in the southwestern Jeolla region.
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