To secure global competitiveness, experts say the country must leverage quantum technology applications, including communication and sensors.
According to the Ministry of Science and ICT, as of June last year, South Korea ranked lowest among 12 major countries in quantum technology. In quantum computing, South Korea scored a mere 2.3 out of 100 points, with the United States serving as the benchmark.
In terms of quantum technology-related publications, South Korea produced 1,210 papers, ranking 16th globally.
Investment levels also reveal a substantial gap. The United States plans to invest about $1 billion (1.45 trillion won) in quantum research and development this year, while China has allocated about 22 trillion won from 2021 through 2025.
Experts suggest that South Korea should prioritize competitiveness in quantum applications rather than competing directly with major countries in foundational quantum technologies.
“South Korea lags in basic quantum technology but has potential in building systems that utilize quantum technology,” said Professor Yeom Heung-yeol of Soonchunhyang University’s Department of Information Security.
“South Korea has strengths in areas like quantum communication and quantum sensors,” he added, calling for collaboration with advanced quantum technology nations.
South Korean companies have already made strides in quantum applications.
LG Electronics has focused on quantum sensor development, participating in the Ministry of Science and ICT’s Quantum Technology Development Leadership project in May 2023.
In December, LG Electronics showcased its achievements at the Sensor Coverage 2025 event in the United States. The company is also collaborating with IBM and the Netherlands-based Qu&Co on quantum computing projects.
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SK Telecom formed a consortium with the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) and the Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute (KASI) to secure a government project for developing a satellite-based long-distance wireless quantum key distribution (QKD) system.
SK Telecom also partnered with global quantum company ID Quantique to develop a subscription-based quantum encryption communication service (QaaS).
KT succeeded in developing high-speed QKD equipment in May last year and built an integrated control platform for quantum encryption communications in December. LG Uplus is accelerating its QKD development efforts in collaboration with Seoul National University.
“The government needs to strategically foster sectors where South Korea can gain a competitive edge, in consultation with experts,” Professor Yeom added.
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