Seoul’s Metropolitan Government, under Deputy Mayor Kim Tae-kyoon, has formalized a partnership with Quandela, a European leader in photonic quantum computers, to construct a dedicated quantum technology development center within the city. The memorandum of understanding, signed Wednesday, will leverage Quandela’s expertise in developing and deploying single-photon quantum computers—utilizing integrated silicon photonics—to foster local quantum innovation. This center aims to accelerate the development of quantum technologies and applications, positioning Seoul as a key hub for the rapidly evolving field of quantum information science and potentially driving economic growth through quantum-based industries.
Quantum Technology Center Established in Seoul
Seoul is bolstering its position in the burgeoning field of quantum technology with a newly established development center. A memorandum of understanding signed between the Seoul Metropolitan Government and quantum photonics firm Quandela will focus on building infrastructure for next-generation computing. The center aims to develop single-photon sources – key components for quantum key distribution (QKD) and photonic quantum computers – achieving a target of 128-qubit systems. This initiative signals a strong commitment to overcoming decoherence challenges hindering current quantum processing.
The partnership leverages Quandela’s expertise in silicon photonics, offering a scalable approach to qubit fabrication. Unlike superconducting or trapped ion qubits, silicon photonics promises easier integration with existing CMOS manufacturing. Initial efforts will center on creating a dedicated quantum network testbed within Seoul, connecting city hall with research institutions. This network is projected to transmit data with a QKD security level exceeding 128-bit encryption, significantly enhancing cybersecurity infrastructure.
Ultimately, Seoul envisions becoming a hub for quantum innovation and talent. The center’s development of photonic quantum computers, even at the 128-qubit level,
Partnership Between Seoul Government and Quandela
Seoul’s government is partnering with Quandela, a European leader in quantum photonics, to establish a dedicated quantum technology development center. Signed Wednesday, the memorandum of understanding focuses on building a hub for research, development, and commercialization of quantum key distribution (QKD) systems. Specifically, the initial phase will leverage Quandela’s single-photon sources—emitting photons with precisely controlled characteristics—to create a secure communication infrastructure demonstrator. This signals Seoul’s ambition to become a leader in post-quantum cryptography.
The partnership isn’t just about theoretical advancements. Quandela’s technology utilizes entangled photons, achieving a key rate of up to 20 bits per second over a 10km fiber optic link – a benchmark for practical QKD deployments. Establishing this center will allow Seoul to test and refine these systems in a real-world urban environment. Crucially, this infrastructure aims to protect sensitive city data – like citizen records and financial transactions – from future quantum computer-based attacks.
