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Morningstar DBRS has identified SK Telecom (SKT) as the key player for building a national sovereign AI infrastructure in Korea. The assessment highlights SKT's expertise in data center operations, AI capabilities, and stable network management as critical for successfully implementing the government's independent AI foundation model project.

In the report 'Telecoms Are Well Placed to Benefit from Sovereign AI Infrastructure Plans,' telecom companies are recognized as viable entities for executing large-scale sovereign AI initiatives. Scott Ratte, Senior Vice President at Morningstar DBRS, emphasized the telecom sector's long-term experience in operating essential networks and compliance with regulations, positioning them as trusted partners in sensitive sovereign AI areas.

Ratte noted that successful infrastructure development could enhance SKT's service competitiveness, enabling expansion into global markets. He also discussed Korea's strengths in semiconductors and network infrastructure, while cautioning that capital allocation will be a challenge in the capital-intensive sovereign AI sector.