Some countries have run test projects using "ubiquitous" technology or applied it to specific sectors. But Busan will be the first city to attempt to commercialize ubiquitous technology in the entire urban environment, including port facilities, transportation, industry, tourism, conventions, e-government and the everyday life of residents. Busan City said Wednesday the "Busan U-City" project would involve W1 trillion in investment and include the participation of global IT companies like KT Corp., IBM, Hewlett-Packard and Microsoft. The city plans to raise the funds for the project, which should be completed by 2010, through global financing companies.
The city plans to build a "U-Port" in Busan harbor using technologies like Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and USN to provide cargo information in real time. It also plans a "U-Convention" facility giving users access to information on international gatherings, tourism and geography as well as translation services and even bill payment. It will also use ubiquitous technology during the APEC summit in November.
The project should increase regional production by W8-21 trillion and create 150,000-160,000 new jobs by 2010, according to a study commissioned by KT.
Quelle: The Chosun Ilbo, 09.03.2005
