LG Uplus (032640.KS), a major South Korean telecommunications carrier, announced Wednesday that it has successfully verified Cloud RAN, a next-generation virtualized base station technology, in a commercial network environment where actual customers use the network, in partnership with Nokia.
Cloud RAN is a technology that implements software functions, which were previously installed on dedicated hardware at each base station, on virtualized central servers in a cloud environment. It is considered one of the core technologies for building next-generation telecommunications networks because it enables more flexible and efficient network operations.
LG Uplus and Nokia established a Cloud RAN field test network in Cheongdo County, North Gyeongsang Province, in September to verify the technology. The two companies successfully tested and verified several key parameters in an environment where actual users were using 5G communications, including seamless handover between base stations when devices move, data transmission speeds for downloads and uploads, base station processing capacity, and power consumption efficiency. LG Uplus also verified operational convenience features associated with Cloud RAN adoption, such as automated equipment installation, remote operations, and automated post-installation verification, while identifying areas for improvement.
Through this successful commercial network verification, LG Uplus has demonstrated that virtualization and centralization of base station functions operate stably in real-world environments. This is significant as it establishes the foundation for securing network flexibility essential for future AI-RAN (artificial intelligence-based radio access network) implementation.
LG Uplus is also researching Open RAN technology to strengthen its network competitiveness. Open RAN is a radio access network designed based on open interfaces and interoperability, serving as a core next-generation telecommunications technology that reduces dependence on specific manufacturers and enhances network flexibility and efficiency. LG Uplus plans to focus its efforts on implementing AI-RAN based on the Cloud RAN and Open RAN technology capabilities it has secured.
"The verification of Open RAN and Cloud RAN technologies holds very significant meaning as it goes beyond simple technology testing to establish the core foundation for evolving into AI-based autonomous networks," said Lee Sang-hun, Head of NW Advanced Development at LG Uplus. "LG Uplus will continue to lead next-generation telecommunications technologies and take the forefront in building intelligent networks in preparation for the 6G era."