Korean telcos unite to standardise network APIs

South Korea’s three major telcos have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop and implement a unified ‘Network Open API’ standard. The MOU – between SK Telecom, KT, and LG U+ – aims to accelerate digital transformation within the industry and promote interoperability with global services.

Until now, each telco has offered its own set of application programming interfaces (APIs), allowing developers and businesses to integrate external applications with their networks. While beneficial for innovation, the lack of a shared standard has created hurdles for developers, increasing development time and complexity. 

Recognising this challenge, the three telecom giants have pledged to establish a common standard for APIs, streamlining the development process and lowering barriers to entry.

This initiative aligns with global trends in the telecoms industry, where organisations like CAMARA and the GSMA are actively promoting collaboration on API technology research and standardisation through initiatives like Open Gateway. 

“The network is evolving beyond the role of providing simple connectivity to become a telco infrastructure that creates new services with AI and various information-based APIs,” explained Ryu Tak-ki, Head of Infrastructure Technology at SK Telecom. “We will create a virtuous cycle by reducing development costs for external customers and speeding up service launches.”

The collaboration has already led to an agreement on six initial network API standards through the Korea Telecommunications Technology Association (TTA), focusing on areas like personal information security, mobile financial security, and communication quality. 

One notable example is the ‘Number Verification’ API, offering enhanced security and user convenience compared to traditional SMS-based OTP methods. This API, coupled with the ‘SIM Swap’ API, aims to combat financial fraud by strengthening mobile phone authentication.

This collaborative effort reflects a broader global shift towards open and interoperable technologies. SK Telecom, for instance, is actively engaging with international operators like Deutsche Telekom to drive service innovation based on common standards through its Global Telco AI Alliance. 

Lee Jong-sik, head of KT Network Research Institute, highlighted the global reach of this collaboration, stating: “Through this MOU, we will be able to provide various services based on common network APIs for both domestic and overseas markets. We will promote technology development and standardisation to globally support various customer requirements such as service quality, authentication, and security enhancements.”

Lee Sang-heon, Head of NW Advance Development at LG U+, echoed this sentiment, adding: “This collaboration between the three telecom companies has paved the way for innovative services that can provide new value to customers. We will strive to be a stepping stone for the three telecom companies to lead the growth of digital innovation.”

This landmark collaboration between SK Telecom, KT, and LG U+ signals a new era of cooperation in South Korea’s telecoms industry, promising to unlock new possibilities for innovation and customer value while setting the stage for global interoperability.

See also: Beijing pushes major Chinese telcos to raise dividends

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Tags: api, connectivity, developers, korea, kt, lg, lg u+, Networks, sk telecom, south korea, telecoms, tta