KT has revealed its plans to implement Ciena’s WaveLogic 6 Extreme (WL6e) technology to address the increasing need for data transmission speeds surpassing 400GbE. The decision comes after successful trials where KT recorded speeds of 1.2 Tbps on its long-distance route connecting Seoul and Busan, and 1.6 Tbps on the medium-distance route between Seoul and Cheonan. This upgrade is expected to boost KT’s network capacity and improve its service capabilities.
The WL6e system is optimized for high-capacity, low-latency transport, addressing the requirements of AI-driven applications and next-generation routing paths. With its advanced features, including coherent digital signal processing (DSP) technologies, the WL6e will support KT in handling increasing data loads while improving energy efficiency and overall performance.
Ciena’s Navigator Network Control Suite will also be integrated, enabling KT to automate network operations and optimize its multi-layer infrastructure for faster and more reliable service delivery.
Henry Kim, Regional Managing Director for North Asia at Ciena, noted the ongoing collaboration with KT and noted their successful milestones, including the first 600G transmission route in South Korea. “The upgrade to KT’s network will provide the needed boost to support the acceleration of AI-driven network traffic and the digital transformation in Korea,” Kim said. This partnership aims to meet the future demand for higher-capacity data transport, particularly as AI applications continue to grow and place greater demands on network infrastructure.
KT plans to implement WL6e across its nationwide backbone network by the first half of 2025. This expansion is a crucial part of KT’s efforts to enhance the connectivity and performance of South Korea’s digital infrastructure, ensuring that the company is well-prepared for the future needs of businesses and consumers. With Ciena’s technology, KT plans to deliver faster, more reliable data transfer speeds.
Established in 1981, KT has been a leader in South Korea’s information and communications industry, driving innovation and shaping the country’s digital landscape. As a leading telecommunications company, KT continues to advance its infrastructure, striving to meet the evolving needs of businesses and consumers.
Ciena, a global leader in networking systems, services, and software, has been a key partner in KT’s efforts to enhance its network. For over three decades, Ciena has been at the forefront of building adaptive networks, helping organizations meet the ever-growing digital world demands. Known for its collaborative approach with customers and partners, Ciena focuses on creating flexible, sustainable, and open networks that support the future of connectivity.
