The 3rd K-Quantum Square Meeting Held
The Ministry of Science and ICT (Minister Lee Jong Ho, MSIT) hosted the third K-Quantum Square Meeting at the JW Marriott Hotel in Seoul, providing a dynamic platform for the convergence of industry, academia, research, and government in the quantum science and technology field.
The event was held under the theme of “Quantum+X, Expanding the Ecosystem by Facilitating Quantum Convergence Research,” and attended by over 450 prominent figures and experts in quantum science and technology. The meeting, along with expert panel discussions on facilitating quantum convergence research and networking events, served as both a platform for New Year’s greetings for quantum scientists and engineers and an opportunity to share key insights into the latest trends of the domestic quantum ecosystem, making entry into the field easier for those from diverse sectors interested in quantum science.
A significant highlight was MSIT’s interim announcement to outline progress and future plans regarding the Quantum Computing Research Infrastructure Establishment Project, which aims to address the technology gap in quantum computing. Phase 1 of the project targets the completion of a 20-qubit quantum computer by 2024, and Phase 2 aiming for a 50-qubit quantum computer by 2026, along with a cloud service demonstration (49 billion won to be invested from 2022 to 2026). In addition, the participants were informed on service processes and criteria of the Superconducting Quantum Fab, which ended its pilot operation recently and started providing full-fledged professional outsourcing production services (foundry).
Furthermore, MSIT outlined major policies and projects for quantum science and technology in 2024, including a 128.5 billion won-project dedicated to quantum science with a budget increase of 32.7% from the previous year, a large-scale R&D pilot project, the implementation of the Quantum Technology Industry Act, planning for a quantum platform, and hosting Quantum Korea.
Giving his words of encouragement, Minister of Science and ICT Lee Jong Ho acknowledged challenges such as a shortage of experts and infrastructure, but expressed confidence in Korea’s world-leading science and technology capabilities and ICT competitiveness. He called for pride in being at the forefront of a new era and emphasized the importance of collaboration among various disciplines, researchers, and industry-academia to establish Korea as a quantum science and technology powerhouse.
For further information, please contact the Public Relations Division (Phone: +82-44-202-4034, E-mail: msitmedia@korea.kr) of the Ministry of Science and ICT.
Please refer to the attached PDF.