SK Telecom announced on the 9th that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Industry-University Cooperation Foundation of Seoul National University for joint research development in the field of quantum technology and training of specialized personnel.
The MOU signing ceremony held at Seoul National University was attended by SKT’s Chief Development Officer (CDO) Ham Min-young and Kim Jae-young, head of the Industry-University Cooperation Foundation at Seoul National University, along with other key officials from both organizations, pledging their commitment to active cooperation in quantum technology.
Moving forward, SKT and Seoul National University will conduct joint research and development on various core technologies related to quantum fields, including quantum cryptography communication, quantum sensing, and quantum computing, while also discussing commercialization strategies for the developed technologies.
SKT expects to combine the quantum technology and AI technology secured through this collaboration to provide customers with ‘safer communications’, ‘enhanced sensing capabilities’, and ‘faster computing’ technologies.
Furthermore, SKT plans to explore technical exchange options between the ‘Quantum Alliance,’ formed in March with leading domestic quantum companies, and Seoul National University.
SKT is optimistic that this MOU will lead to the discovery and nurturing of talents to lead the quantum field in South Korea and ultimately promote a virtuous cycle in the country’s quantum ecosystem.
According to the 2023 Quantum Information Technology White Paper recently released by the government, South Korea has approximately 400 core personnel in quantum-related fields, indicating an urgent need to develop talent capable of leading in this area.
Meanwhile, SKT is at the forefront of innovation in South Korea’s quantum technology.
At MWC 2024, SKT showcased a Quantum AI camera using vision AI technology, along with QKD applications for next-generation AI DC technology communication security. Additionally, the company is pushing for the development of various next-generation quantum technologies, including quantum Lidar technology leveraging single-photon detection and AI technology, quantum-resistant cipher technology, and quantum cryptography communication technology based on optical integration technology.
Kim Jae-young, head of the Industry-University Cooperation Foundation at Seoul National University, stated, “By combining the fundamental and applied technologies in quantum science that Seoul National University possesses with SKT’s commercialization capabilities and resources, we will accelerate the development of the domestic quantum technology ecosystem and enhance global competitiveness.”
Ham Min-young, CDO of SKT, remarked, “Through this industry-academic cooperation, we aim to secure global leadership and contribute to talent development in quantum science and technology, one of the 12 major national strategic technologies. The close cooperation between fundamental scientific technology and applied technology will vitalize the quantum ecosystem, ultimately becoming the strength of South Korea in the upcoming quantum era.”
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr