KT CEO vows to transform telecom firm into digital platform company

By Baek Byung-yeul

KT CEO Ku Hyeon-mo has vowed to transform the leading telecommunications firm into a digital platform company to help the business turn its focus to emerging technology, KT said Monday.

“Unlike other large-sized companies, KT has to take the initiative at a time when the country and society are facing difficulties,” Ku said during his New Year speech.

The CEO held a New Year event with the company's union chief and 50 employees, in a meeting was livestreamed through its in-house broadcasting platform.

In the address, Ku lauded employees who are performing exceptionally well amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and emphasized the company's need to strengthen its capabilities in emerging technologies such as AI, big data and cloud computing to achieve future growth.

“When uncertainties are increased, we have to transform ourselves into a leading company that can make a breakthrough with our capabilities, technology and passion,” the CEO said.

He further stressed the company “is ready to challenge high-growth new business sectors by transforming into a digital platform firm.”

“Ku emphasized now is the time for the company to challenge new businesses such as media content, robotics and bio-healthcare based on its strength in AI, big data and cloud computing,” a KT official said.

Ku also encouraged company employees who working in Baekryeong Island, the country's northernmost territory, and overseas branches such as the Philippines. “I could feel a positive energy after meeting employees who have been working hard with pride at KT,” Ku said.

To be a more socially responsible company, KT also decided to provide medical equipment to Bagae General Hospital in Pyeongtaek, south of Seoul. “The support was made from donations by the company and its employees. Bagae General Hospital was designated as the country's first private hospital to deal with COVID-19 patients in December,” the company said.