South Korea reaches milestone of 100 Private 5G networks

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South Korea has reached an important milestone in the evolution of enterprise connectivity. The Korea Communications Agency (KCA) has confirmed that the number of Private 5G networks operating in the country has now passed 100. This achievement marks a significant moment for the Korean digital transformation journey and highlights how rapidly dedicated mobile networks are becoming part of mainstream industrial infrastructure.

The announcement reflects steady progress since the formal introduction of the national Private 5G policy in October 2021. In just four years, deployments have grown at an average annual rate of around 60 percent, demonstrating strong and sustained momentum. South Korea began implementing Private 5G networks in early 2022, and the ecosystem has expanded consistently ever since. By late November 2025, 82 deployments had been delivered by licensed Private 5G operators on behalf of enterprises, while 18 organisations had chosen to build and manage their own networks directly.

The pattern of growth reveals an interesting trend. Most new installations are being driven by specialist Private 5G operators working in partnership with end users. These managed deployments are increasing steadily, while the number of companies building networks entirely on their own has remained relatively limited. This suggests that many enterprises prefer to rely on experienced service providers rather than taking on the full technical and operational responsibility themselves.

Today, there are 28 authorised Private 5G operators active in the Korean market. Among them, companies such as Wizcore, SMC, Newgens and KT MOS North are reported to be leading in terms of customer acquisition and project delivery. The presence of a diverse operator community has helped to accelerate adoption by giving enterprises a range of choices and implementation models.

The networks already deployed cover a broad cross section of the Korean economy. Private 5G is being used in smart factories to connect artificial intelligence based robots and industrial sensors, enabling real-time coordination and automation. Logistics centres are using dedicated networks to streamline material handling and inventory management. Smart ports are deploying Private 5G to support automated cranes, vehicles and safety systems. Other sectors such as healthcare, construction and education are also adopting the technology as part of their digital modernisation strategies.

More recently, the scope of deployments has expanded beyond traditional industrial sites. Smart office projects are emerging where entire buildings are connected through Private 5G infrastructure. These installations allow integrated management of predictive maintenance, safety services and automated delivery systems using artificial intelligence and connected devices. Companies such as HFR, a Korean telecommunications equipment provider and licensed Private 5G operator, have been actively involved in delivering these next-generation workplace solutions.

The milestone of 100 networks is being viewed as proof that Private 5G has moved beyond pilot projects and early trials. It is increasingly recognised as a practical and reliable platform for productivity improvement and operational efficiency. The technology is becoming a core element in the wider artificial intelligence transformation taking place across Korean industry, linking machines, sensors and applications in ways that were previously difficult to achieve.

Government policy and coordinated support have played a major role in this progress. Since the early days of the programme, the Korea Communications Commission (KCC) and the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) have worked closely to create a structured framework for adoption. The establishment of the 5G Specialised Network Support Center in 2021 provided a focal point for consulting, technical guidance and demonstration activities. This centre has helped organisations understand how to plan, design and deploy Private 5G in real operational environments.

Looking ahead, the KCA has indicated that further steps will be taken to strengthen the ecosystem. Plans include promoting the allocation of additional spectrum for local networks, expanding customised consulting services for enterprises, and pursuing regulatory improvements where necessary. Particular attention will be given to reducing the barriers faced by small and medium-sized companies so that they too can benefit from dedicated 5G infrastructure. Support programmes are expected to cover the full lifecycle of projects, from initial planning through to ongoing operation.

The fact that more than 100 industrial sites are already using Private 5G demonstrates that the technology is delivering tangible value. Real-world deployments in smart factories, logistics hubs, offices and ports are showing how reliable wireless connectivity can transform processes and create new ways of working. For South Korea, this milestone underlines the success of a coordinated national approach that combines clear policy direction with active industry participation.

As adoption continues to grow, Private 5G is set to become an increasingly important foundation for the country’s digital and industrial competitiveness. The progress achieved so far suggests that the next phase of deployments will move even faster, bringing dedicated mobile networks to many more sectors and organisations in the years ahead.

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