South Korean network carrier KT on Monday said that it has successfully developed a new, cost-effective telecommunications device able to deliver next-generation 5G network signals inside closed buildings by using network infrastructures already installed in buildings.

KT’s newly-built repeater -- a device which amplifies network signals for small areas or buildings and plays an integral role in enabling network services indoors -- runs on existing network cables and repeaters built for Long-Term Evolution, or LTE networks.

By significantly cutting installation costs and raising efficiency, KT said its new 5G repeater allows the firm to provide 5G services at cheaper costs than those of its competitors.

KT, the country’s second-largest telecom firm, claims that its newly-built 5G repeater is the first of its kind to be introduced worldwide.

The firm plans to utilize its new 5G repeater technology to service its 5G network services at indoor venues during the upcoming PyeongChang Winter Olympics in 2018.

5G broadband network technology -- which can deliver data 1,000 times faster than LTE, or 4G -- refers to the next major phase of wireless communication technologies.

By Sohn Ji-young (jys@heraldcorp.com)