Samsung Electronics has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Korea Transportation Safety Authority (KOTSA) to collaborate on telecommunication technology which will enable autonomous driving innovation across the country.

Through the partnership, both entities will build 4G LTE, 5G and Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) telecommunication networks and related IT infrastructures at K-City, a test bed for autonomous driving technology in Korea.

“By building various telecommunication networks including 5G, 4G and V2X in one place, K-City will provide real-world experiences of autonomous driving for people and businesses across the industry,” said Byung Yoon Kwon, Director of KOTSA.

K-City consists of five real-life simulated cases, urban and rural areas, local communities, highways and parking lots, spread across a 360,000m2 field. Using vehicle communication technologies, the test bed will create an environment for autonomous vehicles and connected cars to experience real-life road conditions, crossings and tunnels. It will also enable the testing of accident risk situations that can be recreated and repeated, contributing to enhanced safety for both drivers and pedestrians.

Alongside the implementation of network equipment, Samsung will begin building key IT infrastructures to guarantee minimal latency and information security at K-City. Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) near base stations is critical in supporting instant communication between fast-moving vehicles, and enables cars to react to unanticipated events.

The network solution in K-City supported by Samsung and KOTSA will be available to professionals and businesses of all sizes. The site will eventually become the center of research for autonomous driving and connected cars.