Wedoany.com Report-Sept. 16, SK Telecom (SKT), Korea’s largest mobile carrier, announced on Tuesday a new collaboration with OpenAI to launch a promotional event for ChatGPT Plus subscribers. This initiative marks the first time the developer has partnered with a local telecom provider to promote its subscription service.

An SK Telecom store is seen in Seoul on Aug. 27

Under the promotion, new ChatGPT Plus users will be eligible to receive discount coupons that allow them to access the service for free for two months after paying for one month of subscription. SKT noted that the event is designed to introduce more customers to the service while broadening the use of generative AI in everyday applications.

The telecom company has maintained a close relationship with OpenAI in recent years. In 2023, the two organizations co-hosted a hackathon, creating opportunities for developers to explore AI solutions. They also jointly participated in the MIT GenAI Impact Consortium, alongside six other businesses, focusing on advancing the role of AI in different industries.

SK Telecom stated that it will continue to implement a two-track strategy, balancing the development of its own AI model with active partnerships with international technology firms. This dual approach reflects the company’s goal of strengthening both domestic innovation and global cooperation in AI.

In August, a consortium led by SK Telecom was chosen as one of five groups eligible for state funding to support the development of homegrown AI foundation models. This initiative aligns with the government’s long-term objective of positioning the country as a leader in the global AI landscape.

Highlighting the company’s direction, Lee Jae-shin, head of SK Telecom’s AI strategy, said: “By bolstering the two-track strategy of seeking global ties and self-empowerment, we plan to expand a customer-oriented AI ecosystem.” He emphasized that SKT is committed to creating services that respond to customer needs while reinforcing its AI capabilities.

The new promotional event with OpenAI demonstrates SK Telecom’s efforts to bring advanced AI technologies to a broader audience in Korea. By offering easier access to ChatGPT Plus, the company aims to enhance user experience and further integrate AI applications into consumer services.

Through simultaneous development of proprietary models and international cooperation, SK Telecom continues to expand its influence in the AI sector. The partnership with OpenAI not only builds on past collaborations but also reflects SKT’s strategy of leveraging global expertise while fostering domestic capabilities.

The initiative underscores the company’s role in shaping an AI ecosystem that is customer-focused, innovative, and connected to global advancements. With state support for foundation models and ongoing cooperation with global AI developers, SK Telecom is reinforcing its position in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.