SK AX has secured the 100 billion won Amazon Web Services (AWS) Managed Service Provider (MSP) business rights from Nexon. Following intense competition with existing large MSP providers, SK AX has established a solid foundation for business expansion by securing a major reference in the enterprise cloud market.
According to industry sources on the 3rd, Nexon recently selected SK AX as the preferred negotiator for a large-scale cloud operation management project commissioned to enhance the competitiveness of its global game services.
This project involves managing and operating cloud hubs established in major regions around the world by Nexon to respond to the increasing number of overseas game users and service area expansions. The total contract amount is reported to be 100 billion won, making it one of the notable large-scale managed service projects in the domestic cloud market.
Nexon's cloud infrastructure has been managed by major MSP providers in the past. To maximize infrastructure efficiency and enhance operational systems, Nexon conducted a selection process for new operation operators. It was reported that particular emphasis was placed on efficient inter-region data transmission and uninterrupted service operation capabilities.
SK AX is said to have met Nexon's requirements by providing a cloud optimization solution incorporating AI technology, going beyond infrastructure management. The AI-based cloud operation model presented by SK AX was evaluated to be flexible in responding to large traffic fluctuations, aligning with the characteristics of the global gaming industry where a large number of users connect in real-time. The 'AI FinOps' technology, which analyzes AWS usage patterns to optimize cost structures, also reportedly met Nexon's operational efficiency requirements.
Earlier, SK AX designated MSP as a strategic business and has been promoting AI cloud strategies with SK Telecom and AWS. The three companies have signed a Strategic Collaboration Agreement (SCA) and are accelerating the establishment of 'industry-specific AI infrastructure' by combining AI and cloud capabilities. The goal is to provide customized AI solutions optimized for various industries such as the gaming industry by integrating SK AX's industry-specific construction know-how, SKT's communication and AI technology, and AWS's global infrastructure.
With the recent major reference secured, SK AX is now able to accelerate its MSP business. By establishing an 'industry-specific AI cloud stack' that reflects industry structure and security requirements, SK AX has laid the foundation to expand into various industries such as gaming, manufacturing, finance, and retail.