"Super VR on Airplanes: KT, Jin Air, and Hanjin Information Systems Join Forces"

[Asia Economy Reporter Koo Chae-eun] On the 6th, KT signed a business agreement with Jin Air and Hanjin Information Systems for the introduction of the ‘KT Super Virtual Reality (VR)-based immersive in-flight service.’

According to this agreement, KT, Jin Air, and Hanjin Information Systems will develop VR services optimized for the unique in-flight environment, such as aviation safety and security, based on each company's expertise and capabilities. As a result, Jin Air passengers will be able to enjoy KT’s powerful immersive media services even during flights. This service will be gradually operated from the second half of the year, primarily on international routes frequently used by family travelers. Jin Air passengers can rent personal VR headsets on board to watch the latest movies in ultra-high definition. They can also view 360-degree VR videos in various genres such as travel and sports.

To this end, the three companies are customizing the Super VR platform by linking it with the in-flight server. When an in-flight announcement is made while passengers are using the VR service with the headset on, the VR screen will also notify them. The service can be controlled according to emergency situations to ensure convenience and safety for users.

This collaboration among the three companies was prompted by the increasing number of domestic low-cost carriers (LCCs) launching medium- and long-haul routes, which has steadily raised the need for in-flight entertainment systems. In the future, LCCs without seat-back monitors will likely expand service innovation by providing new customer experiences through standalone VR headsets. Jin Air, as a leading low-cost carrier, was the first in Korea to introduce and operate a pilot in-flight VR service. Starting with this cooperation with KT, Jin Air plans to offer differentiated in-flight entertainment services on a wider range of routes using VR services.

Kang Guk-hyun, Vice President and Head of KT’s Customer Division, said, “It has become possible to enjoy virtual reality services not only at home or experience spaces but also while traveling by plane,” adding, “We will continue to develop various products and diversify partnership businesses so that many customers can comfortably enjoy VR services without constraints of time and space, leading innovation in other industries.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.