South Korea’s science ministry has revealed a roadmap to develop the quantum industry, with the goal of becoming the world’s top quantum chip producer by 2035. The plan involves training 10,000 experts and supporting 2,000 businesses to enhance homegrown quantum technologies, especially in the artificial intelligence sector. The government plans to establish “quantum clusters” in five locations by July to drive the country’s quantum advancement.
Science Minister Bae Kyung-hoon emphasized the significance of quantum technology in determining a nation’s competitiveness in the post-AI era. He highlighted the government’s commitment to leveraging national resources from various sectors to position South Korea as a global quantum technology hub. Additionally, the ministry signed a memorandum of understanding with US-based quantum computing firm IonQ for joint research and a $15 million investment over three years.
Leading South Korean companies like Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics, and SK Telecom Co. have formed a quantum technology consultative body to explore collaboration opportunities. The science ministry announced a substantial investment of $5.6 billion in research and development in science and information and communications technology by 2026. This increased budget aims to drive innovation-led growth, particularly in future technologies such as biotechnology and quantum science, while reinforcing core technologies for key industries like semiconductors and secondary batteries.
