LG Uplus Aims for $3.2 Billion in AI Data Center Orders by 2030

In a strategic move to solidify its presence in the burgeoning AI infrastructure sector, LG Uplus announced ambitious plans to secure 5 trillion won ($3.2 billion) in cumulative orders by 2030. This announcement coincided with the unveiling of its advanced AI data center currently under construction in Paju, Gyeonggi Province. The company aims to set a new standard for AI infrastructure by applying its technological capabilities and fostering collaboration across its business units.

Addressing Rising Demands

The shift in AI workloads from model training to inference has increased power demands and operational complexities for data centers. LG Uplus is tackling these challenges with its innovative “ACE on Trust” strategy, which enhances agility, capacity, and efficiency in its facilities. The Paju AI data center will span approximately 150,000 square meters and is expected to become a key hub for inference-driven AI workloads, boasting a remarkable power capacity of 200 megawatts. This makes it the only facility in the Seoul metropolitan area equipped to handle such demands.

Modular Construction for Rapid Deployment

To speed up its infrastructure rollout, LG Uplus is adopting a prefabricated modular construction approach. This method shortens deployment timelines and allows for flexible scaling, accommodating everything from proof-of-concept initiatives to large hyperscale environments. The first phase of the Paju facility is set for completion by June 2027, featuring preassembled components designed to expedite construction and swiftly address market demand.

Focus on Efficiency and Reliability

Efficiency is central to LG Uplus's strategy. The Paju AI data center will incorporate a hybrid cooling architecture, integrating air and liquid cooling systems for the first time in Korea at hyperscale. This cutting-edge liquid cooling solution, developed in collaboration with LG Electronics, uses a direct-to-chip method that improves energy efficiency by approximately 24% compared to traditional cooling techniques. Robotics will monitor critical environmental factors within the facility, ensuring optimal operational stability.

Beyond Construction: A Vision for AI Factory Operations

Looking ahead, LG Uplus aims to evolve into an AI factory operator. This vision goes beyond merely building data centers; it involves managing resources for graphics processing units, power, and cooling systems to ensure optimal conditions for AI workloads. The company’s commitment to operational excellence is clear, with the first building of the Paju facility already at full capacity and all contracts signed.

An official from LG Uplus stated, "AI data center competitiveness is no longer determined by facility size alone, but by how reliably operators can manage the entire infrastructure stack. The Paju AI data center will serve as a flagship example of that capability." This highlights the company's emphasis on comprehensive infrastructure management as a key factor for success in the AI data center sector.

As LG Uplus works toward its ambitious target, the implications of its strategy are likely to resonate throughout the AI infrastructure market, potentially setting new benchmarks for efficiency and operational excellence. With its innovative approaches and forward-looking vision, LG Uplus is positioned to not only meet the rising demands of AI workloads but also to take the lead in a rapidly evolving industry.