SK Telecom has begun building a sophisticated, enterprise-scale AI for IT Operations (AIOps) platform for Samsung Electronics' Mobile eXperience (MX) division.
This project is a major validation of SKT's 'AI Native' enterprise strategy. AIOps essentially uses artificial intelligence to automate the complex job of running IT systems—predicting problems, finding the root cause of failures, and managing operations automatically. For Samsung's MX division, the team behind the Galaxy smartphone ecosystem, SKT is delivering the full package: from strategy and platform design to the actual AI models.
The timing of this partnership is driven by powerful forces. First, there's a strong 'pull' from Samsung. The company is embedding AI everywhere, from its 'Galaxy AI' features to its advanced AI-RAN network technology. This rapid expansion of AI creates immense operational complexity. Managing these intricate systems manually is no longer feasible, making AIOps a strategic necessity to ensure stability and efficiency.
Simultaneously, there's a 'push' from SKT and the broader regulatory environment. SKT has strategically repositioned itself as an AI infrastructure leader, investing in AI data centers and deepening its partnership with NVIDIA. This gives them a credible, ready-to-deploy AIOps solution. Furthermore, Korea’s new 'AI Basic Act', which took effect in early 2026, adds a legal tailwind. The law mandates stronger governance and auditability for AI systems, and AIOps platforms provide the automated monitoring and explainability needed to meet these compliance demands.
This deal is more than just a single contract; it's a template for SKT's future. The global AIOps market is projected to grow to over $32 billion by 2028. By securing a flagship customer like Samsung, SKT creates a powerful case study to win over other Korean conglomerates. Investors have taken notice, with SKT's stock price rising significantly, reflecting confidence that its AI-centric strategy is beginning to pay off.
- AIOps (AI for IT Operations): The use of artificial intelligence to automate and streamline IT operations, from detecting anomalies to identifying the root cause of issues.
- MX (Mobile eXperience): Samsung Electronics' business division responsible for its mobile products, including the Galaxy series of smartphones, tablets, and wearables.
- AI Native: A strategy where a company designs its core operations, services, and culture around artificial intelligence from the ground up.