Landmark 6G Frequency Identification at WRC-23 Paves Way for Next-Generation Wireless Era
Collaboration with the U.S. Bolsters Stable 6GHz Band WiFi Operations
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기사입력 : 2023.12.23 16:01
[Leaders Times] Marking a significant milestone in global telecommunications, the World Radiocommunication Conferences 2023 (WRC-23) has reached a successful conclusion. As the premier decision-making assembly organized by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), WRC-23 focuses on critical aspects of frequency allocation and radio communications worldwide. The event, spanning four weeks from November 20 to December 15, was hosted in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It saw the participation of approximately 3,800 experts from 162 countries, encompassing government and industry specialists.
The South Korean government played a pivotal role in this global event, assembling a 49-member delegation comprising experts from the Ministry of Science and ICT, the Ministry of National Defense, the National Radio Research Institute, and industry giants like Samsung Electronics. This team was instrumental in enhancing international frequency cooperation.
With the advent of the 6G era on the horizon, South Korea has been at the forefront of international efforts to identify potential 6G frequency resources, particularly in collaboration with the Asia-Pacific region and the United States. The Korean delegation was particularly proactive in shaping the agenda for the upcoming WRC (WRC-27), proposing the 4.4-15.35GHz band as a prime candidate for 6G. This initiative led to the adoption of three out of four bands proposed by Korea as potential 6G frequencies at WRC-23. The Ministry of Science and ICT is now set to lead discussions on the development and standardization of 6G technology by 2027.
A significant achievement at WRC-23 was the reinforcement of Wi-Fi service protection, particularly in the 6GHz band, which is a collaborative effort between Korea and the U.S. For the first time, the ITU’s Radio Regulations have incorporated provisions for Wi-Fi usage in this band, paving the way for stable, interference-free Wi-Fi services, crucial for enhancing service speed and quality.
Additionally, the conference marked advancements in safety functions for maritime and aviation sectors. The allocation of new frequencies for satellite-based air traffic control will mitigate communication dead zones over the oceans. Moreover, the Korean delegation secured agreements with global entities, including the U.S. and France, to ensure the stable provision of satellite-based SOS text services.
The conference also established operational guidelines for new non-terrestrial satellites (ESIM), facilitating convenient Internet access on aircraft and ships. Previously, most satellite services required fixed installations. The new ESIM regulations will allow for more flexible, high-speed Internet services in these mobile environments.
Furthermore, WRC-23 introduced regulations to protect existing geostationary and future complex communication satellites from interference by the burgeoning non-geostationary satellite systems, ensuring the stable operation of Korea’s satellite network.
For the first time, the conference included discussions on space weather, addressing the impact of solar activity on satellites, terrestrial communications, and power infrastructure. This focus is expected to form a foundational strategy for protecting public safety and infrastructure.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Science and ICT plans to dispatch mobile communication experts to the ITU in early 2024, following an MoU signed in August 2023. This initiative aims to position Korea as a leader in 6G frequency exploration at WRC-27.
Park Yun-Kyu, the second vice minister of the Ministry of Science and ICT, emphasized the success of Korea's proactive radio diplomacy at WRC-23, leading to the adoption of 6G candidate frequencies for future WRC agendas. The ministry is committed to swiftly implementing follow-up actions for frequency allocation and spearheading initiatives for public safety enhancement and industry growth.
The mobile telecommunications and manufacturing industries have warmly received the outcomes of WRC-23, signaling a readiness to research and adapt to the newly identified mid-to long-range 6G frequencies, anticipating transformative impacts on future network technologies.
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