GSMA M360 APAC, the Asia-Pacific leg of the UK-based mobile industry nonprofit GSMA conference, kicked off its two-day event in Seoul on September 7, under the theme "Leading “leading a digital-first future".
The M360 APAC event is back and making its debut in Seoul, South Korea, with KT as the host sponsor. Industry leaders from across the Asia Pacific have come together to explore the future of mobile technology and the profound impact of digital advances on the economies of APAC countries.
In his opening remarks, Mats Granryd, Director General of the GSMA, thanked Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT and host sponsor KT for their warm welcome. He also launched the GSMA's latest report, entitled "Digital Societies in Asia Pacific: Leveraging Emerging Technologies for Digital Transformation'. The report delves into the role of emerging technologies in Asia Pacific countries' journey towards digital transformation, revealing that mobile broadband networks now cover 96% of the Asia Pacific population, with a projected investment of nearly $260 billion in network infrastructure, largely focused on 5G technology.
Granryd said during the keynote: "This year marks the 50th anniversary of the first mobile phone call. Today, our networks cover 95% of the world's population, serving a staggering 5.4 billion people. With Web 3.0, AI and intelligent connectivity dominating the global discourse, connectivity remains the linchpin. Our industry is on the cusp of another strategic transformation to technology-driven communications companies where everyone and everything is seamlessly connected."
Young Shub Kim, President and CEO of KT Corporation said, "As digital transformation accelerates, the importance of integrated ICT capabilities that merge IT and CT is growing. KT is at the forefront of Korea's telecommunications companies, driving the development of core DX technologies and ecosystems, including AI, big data, cloud and 5G, to shape a thriving digital future. As the host sponsor of M360 APAC in Seoul, KT will participate in discussions on the future direction of the digital era to shape a successful digital landscape."
Nurturing Digital Nations in Asia Pacific
The GSMA's Digital Societies report highlights the coming decade as a time when APAC countries will strive to become digital nations. These efforts will involve the infusion of digital technologies and services into every facet of the economy, fostering resilient economies with limited resources and sustainable, inclusive economic growth.
Key findings from the report include:
Asia-Pacific countries' journey to become digital nations coincides with the mainstream adoption of emerging technologies. AI, in particular, is advancing rapidly in APAC and is of critical importance due to its potential societal impact. Policymakers, the private sector, and stakeholders must prioritize the responsible, safe, and sustainable development and application of these technologies. Notably, four Asia-Pacific countries ranked in the top 10 of the 2022 Government AI Readiness Index: Singapore (2nd), South Korea (6th), Australia (8th), and Japan (9th).
High-speed connectivity serves as the cornerstone of digital nations, with mobile broadband networks now accessible to 96% of the Asia-Pacific population. Mobile operators in APAC have earmarked $259 billion for network expansion between 2023 and 2030. Policymakers have an opportunity to complement these investments by reducing the tax burden on the mobile industry, ensuring equitable access to spectrum, and implementing measures to accelerate the deployment of advanced network infrastructure.
Given the central role of digital technologies and services in Asia-Pacific economies, the whole-of-government (WGA) approach and international cooperation are essential, taking into account the cross-sectoral and cross-border implications of digital policies and initiatives.
M360 APAC: A regional focus with global impact
Presented by the GSMA, M360 is a global series of events that unite the regional mobile ecosystem. These events aim to uncover, nurture, and deliver the innovation that is the foundation of a thriving business environment and positive societal change. The gatherings feature inspiring keynote speeches, thought-provoking panel discussions, and illuminating case studies spanning mobile technology and adjacent industries.
