Jang Seob Yoon
Research expert covering South Korea
Cloud computing in South Korea - statistics & facts
South Korea strives to become an attractive destination for those migrating to digital clouds. Cloud computing plays a significant role in many contemporary business operations and is widely expected to maintain its relevance as technology continues to develop. While the worldwide cloud market is led by U.S.-based companies, South Korea is also home to a growing cloud services industry, with hundreds of companies offering services based on cloud computing technology.
The most familiar use of cloud technology is perhaps online data storage and backup. Services like Microsoft OneDrive have become commonplace in many professional settings due to their utility in saving and accessing document files. Such services are widely used among individual users as well, with domestic tech companies such as Naver Corporation enjoying prominence among South Korean consumers. For example, users of Naver Cloud can upload files and photos on their smartphone to a personal online storage environment that can be easily accessed and managed via an app or internet browser.
How is cloud computing used in South Korea?
Due to the sheer variety of ways in which it can be integrated, exact definitions and categories of cloud technologies may differ. Nevertheless, three distinct types of cloud computing business models are generally accepted as standard within the industry, namely Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Software as a Service (SaaS), and Platform as a Service (PaaS). The differentiation between the three largely depends on the degree of cloud-based operations. IaaS companies provide a fundamental level of cloud computing, such as storage and servers, while SaaS companies offer a complete package that is ready for near-immediate use. Most South Korean cloud companies operate a SaaS business, which can include relevant security services for data protection.The most familiar use of cloud technology is perhaps online data storage and backup. Services like Microsoft OneDrive have become commonplace in many professional settings due to their utility in saving and accessing document files. Such services are widely used among individual users as well, with domestic tech companies such as Naver Corporation enjoying prominence among South Korean consumers. For example, users of Naver Cloud can upload files and photos on their smartphone to a personal online storage environment that can be easily accessed and managed via an app or internet browser.
Outlook on cloud computing in South Korea
Survey results of IT experts in South Korea show a high level of awareness and expertise regarding cloud computing in the country. Additionally, various reasons are behind the demand for a multi cloud system, which is considered an attractive option among respondents. However, as cloud environments continue to grow and become more complex, the South Korean cloud industry remains vigilant, highlighted by its awareness of the need for further developments regarding security. Amidst the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and its potentially disruptive impact on business, cloud computing will have a fundamental role and South Korean companies are doing their best to prepare for the upcoming storm.
