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SK Telecom Partners with Joby Aviation for UAM Services in South Korea

SK Telecom (SKT) has announced a strategic partnership with Joby Aviation, a leader in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, to launch urban air mobility (UAM) services in South Korea. The collaboration aims to introduce Joby’s aircraft and UAM operations to the Korean market.

The partnership was formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by Ryu Kyong-sun, CEO of SKT’s UAM division, T Map Mobility, and Joe Ben Bevirt, founder and CEO of Joby Aviation. This agreement sets the stage for the deployment of Joby’s eVTOL aircraft and its operational expertise in South Korea.

SKT’s T Map Mobility, which operates South Korea’s largest navigation app with over 10 million users, is expected to leverage its extensive user base and technological capabilities to facilitate the adoption of UAM services. The company plans to integrate UAM services into its existing mobility platform, providing convenient booking and travel options for consumers.

Joby Aviation, based in the United States, is known for its development of a five-seat, all-electric aircraft designed for speed, range, and quiet operation. The company has received significant investment and is considered a frontrunner in the eVTOL industry, with ongoing efforts to achieve certification and commercialize its services.

The collaboration intends to combine Joby’s advanced aircraft technology and operational experience with SKT’s robust digital infrastructure and local market knowledge. This synergy is expected to accelerate the introduction of safe and efficient UAM services to South Korean cities.

The partnership envisions the establishment of a network of vertiports and the integration of UAM into the broader transportation ecosystem. SKT and Joby Aviation will work together to navigate regulatory processes, develop operational standards, and prepare for the commercial launch of their UAM services in the coming years.

Key Points

• Partnership between SK Telecom (SKT) and Joby Aviation to launch urban air mobility (UAM) services in South Korea.
• SKT’s UAM division, T Map Mobility, signed an MOU with Joby Aviation.
• T Map Mobility operates South Korea’s largest navigation app with over 10 million users.
• The partnership aims to deploy Joby’s eVTOL aircraft and UAM operations in South Korea.

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