“Live updates of high-definition maps will lay the ground for a new industry, such as smart mobility,” said Ko Hong-seok, who manages the traffic system in Seoul. “By enhancing cooperation with the local government, we will help Seoul lead other global cities in future transportation.”

The announcement comes as part of the mobile carrier’s efforts to develop advanced network infrastructure for autonomous driving. Last month, SKT signed an agreement with the Incheon Free Economic Zone to develop 5G-based self-driving infrastructure.

The sophisticated map system in Seoul will be based on traffic information of 12 crowded streets, stretching up to 121 kilometers. After creating the map, SKT said it will work with the government to verify its accuracy.

To make the map with “centimeter-level” accuracy, the Seoul city government will deploy 1700 buses and taxies on the roads later this year. Equipped with “Advanced Driver Assistance System,” the selected public transport suystems can update traffic information in real time.

Unlike the previous Global Positioning System, ADAS allows drivers to “communicate” with other vehicles and objects on the roads, SKT said. It can help drivers commute safely by detecting potential hazards and warnings using such information automatically. (jasonyeo@heraldcorp.com)