Domestic telecom giants KT and SK Telecom on April 26 said they jointly launched the world's first nationwide emergency telecommunications network with Samsung Electronics. KT technicians are shown here inspecting the network's base gear. (KT)

By Lee Jihae

Domestic telecom giants KT and SK Telecom on April 26 announced their joint launch with Samsung Electronics of the world's first nationwide network for emergency telecommunications.

The next-generation wireless network is designed to prevent and respond to natural disasters and emergencies.

In the event of a disaster, the network allows the use of an integrated onsite command system at the site and close cooperation by disaster response agencies.

The 2014 sinking of the Sewol ferry highlighted the need for a unified wireless network jointly usable by multiple agencies at a site. The government led the creation of such a network.

The network is the world's first of its kind for allowing emergency telecommunications covering all of the nation's territory and sovereign waters.

The setup merges the wireless networks of 333 government organizations including those of police, firefighters, national defense, rail and local governments.

A maximum 2,500 devices can communicate through this network in real time. Communication is even possible in places where connection with a wireless base station is difficult such as deep mountainous areas or below ground.

jihlee08@korea.kr