SKT Launches 'Unmanned Safe Zone Access Authentication' Service Using Initials

The Nation's First Use of Blockchain and Decentralized Identifier Technology
No Personnel Needed for Vaccine Verification, Identity Confirmation Included

The SKT model is introducing the 'Unmanned Safe Zone Access Authentication' service.

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Hye-sun] SK Telecom announced on the 2nd that it has launched a ‘Unmanned Safe Zone Access Authentication’ service based on blockchain and decentralized identifiers (DID) through its ‘Initial’ application (app).

The ‘Unmanned Safe Zone Access Authentication’ service applies an authentication device via the ‘Initial’ app to unmanned stores where employees do not reside and where certification for COVID-19 prevention measures such as electronic entry logs is difficult. This allows issuance, inquiry, and submission of vaccination information that includes COVID-19 vaccination records. ‘Initial’ users can securely store various electronic certificates on their devices through the app and submit them to required institutions.

Access authentication devices are installed in unmanned stores where the ‘Unmanned Safe Zone Access Authentication’ service is applied. Customers using the store can simply enter by generating a QR code in the ‘Initial’ app and scanning it on the access authentication device. For first-time use, users must combine and submit ‘Mobile Membership Proof’ and ‘COVID-19 Vaccination Information’ within the ‘Initial’ app.

The ‘Unmanned Safe Zone Access Authentication’ service eliminates the need to assign separate personnel to verify COVID-19 vaccination information. By utilizing the identity verification function of the ‘Initial’ app, it is also possible to expand the system to simultaneously verify COVID-19 vaccination and age information at places such as PC rooms with youth entry restrictions after 10 p.m.

Starting from the 2nd, SKT will collaborate with access authentication system developers and vendors such as SK Shieldus and OrderQueen, as well as unmanned study cafe solution providers, to pilot the ‘Unmanned Safe Zone Access Authentication’ service at unmanned cafes and pet shops in the metropolitan area. From mid-month, the service will be expanded mainly to study cafes in the metropolitan area.

SKT expects that the introduction of this service, which simultaneously verifies COVID-19 vaccination information and existing membership qualifications at unmanned stores where it is difficult to track the number of visitors, will allow customers to use stores more safely and comfortably.