To meet the growing needs of artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing, SK Telecom is investing in innovative liquid cooling technologies to improve the efficiency and sustainability of its data centers. By partnering with industry leaders, the company aims to implement direct liquid cooling (DLC), immersion liquid cooling (ILC), and precision liquid cooling (PLC) techniques. These efforts tackle the considerable heat produced in high-density computing environments.
Strategic Partnerships and Technological Focus
In March 2025, SK Telecom entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Giga Computing and SK Enmove to jointly develop next-generation liquid cooling solutions tailored for AI data centers. Giga Computing contributes its expertise in liquid cooling technologies, while SK Enmove supplies high-quality, energy-efficient cooling fluids. The collaboration encompasses developing and validating DLC, ILC, and PLC methods to optimize cooling performance and energy efficiency in high-density computing environments.
Additionally, SK Telecom has partnered with Iceotope Technologies and SK Enmove to deploy Iceotope’s precision liquid cooling solutions at SK Telecom’s AI Data Center Testbed. This initiative focuses on demonstrating the value of PLC in enhancing cooling efficiency and reducing power consumption. SK Telecom plans to develop an integrated Coolant Distribution Unit (CDU) to support various liquid cooling systems, leveraging technical support from Iceotope.
Advantages of Liquid Cooling Technologies
Liquid cooling technologies offer significant advantages over traditional air-cooling methods, particularly in managing the heat generated by high-performance computing systems. DLC involves circulating cooling fluid through cold plates attached directly to heat-generating components, effectively dissipating heat at the source. ILC entails submerging entire servers in non-conductive liquid, allowing for efficient heat removal and uniform cooling. PLC delivers dielectric fluid precisely to the hottest components, optimizing thermal management and reducing energy consumption.
Liquid-cooling methods can improve power usage effectiveness (PUE), lower operational costs, and enhance system reliability. They’re also more efficient at keeping computer components from overheating. By reducing the need for extensive air-cooling infrastructure, data centers can achieve higher energy efficiency and support the increasing computational demands of AI applications. They allow for smaller, more compact, easily maintained, and repaired systems. In addition, they can lead to more efficient energy consumption due to the lack of air handling equipment.
Commitment to Sustainable AI Infrastructure
SK Telecom’s investment in liquid cooling technologies reflects its commitment to developing sustainable and efficient AI infrastructure. By collaborating with industry leaders and leveraging advanced cooling solutions, the company aims to position itself as a global leader in AI data center operations. These efforts enhance the performance and reliability of SK Telecom’s data centers and contribute to broader industry advancements in energy-efficient computing.
SK Telecom is addressing the challenges associated with high-density AI data centers through strategic partnerships and a focus on innovative cooling technologies. By investing in direct liquid cooling, immersion liquid cooling, and precision liquid cooling, the company is enhancing operational efficiency, reducing energy consumption, and promoting sustainability in its AI infrastructure. These initiatives underscore SK Telecom’s dedication to leading advancements in data center technology and supporting the evolving needs of AI and high-performance computing.
