Health Connect, a joint venture between SK Telecom and Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH), was officially launched recently with the goal of developing futuristic healthcare convergence technologies and enhancing national welfare by reducing social cost due rising healthcare expenses in Korea.

Ha Sung-Min, President and CEO of SK Telecom said, “The official launch of Health Connect Co. Ltd. marks a good starting point for SK Telecom and SNUH to join hands to bring ICT-driven innovations to the healthcare industry. SK Telecom will provide the best support and make all-out-efforts to produce successful results in its new, long-prepared healthcare business. With cutting-edge ICT and top-class medical professionals, Health Connect is well positioned to serve as a pioneer in the field of futuristic healthcare services both home and abroad.

Besides the launch of a joint venture company, SNUH and SK Telecom co-developed Mobile EMR (Electronic Medical Record) and medical self-diagnosis applications in 2011 to accelerate the realization and export of ‘Smart Hospital.’ Moreover, plans are ahead for the two companies to create a customer-oriented medical environment by building smart ICT systems within hospitals this year. 

Since signing the joint venture agreement on Oct. 10 2011, SK Telecom and SNUH have closely worked together to promote healthcare business. The two parties have completed creating the organizational structure (i.e. business, technology, strategy, new business development, etc.) of the joint venture firm and recruited all needed employees in just three months. The joint venture is established with a capital of KRW 20 billion.