South Korea to Invest £380 Million in Quantum Computing and Technology Development

South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT has approved a 645.4 billion won (approximately £370 million) investment over eight years, until 2032, to advance national quantum technology capabilities. The funding will focus on developing a 1,000-qubit quantum computer and a 100km quantum internet, aiming to establish independent technological prowess amidst increasing international competition, particularly between the United States and China. The project, which received preliminary feasibility approval in August 2023, prioritises the development of superconducting quantum chips with error correction – a critical challenge as qubit numbers increase – and follows a review process that has resulted in a slight reduction from the initially requested 700 billion won. Alongside quantum computing, the ministry also approved funding for projects including hydrogen reduction steelmaking and various technologies addressing climate change, disaster management, and semiconductor advancement.

South Korea commits significant resources to pioneering research and development initiatives, allocating substantial funding to both quantum computing and hydrogen-based steel production. This strategic investment underscores its commitment to a future powered by clean energy and advanced technologies. By investing in these transformative technologies, the nation aims to secure its position as a global leader in innovation, drive economic growth, and address critical environmental challenges.

The quantum computing initiative receives considerable investment, aiming to develop a robust and scalable quantum computing infrastructure. Researchers focus on overcoming technical hurdles associated with qubit stability, coherence, and error correction, essential for building practical quantum computers. This research drives advancements in fundamental physics and materials science, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of innovation and attracting top talent. The investment extends beyond hardware development to include the creation of quantum algorithms and software tools for applications including materials discovery, drug design, and financial modeling.

Alongside quantum computing, South Korea prioritizes the development of green steel production technologies, specifically hydrogen reduction steelmaking. The nation allocates 814.6 billion won over five years to a 300,000-ton demonstration project utilizing a spectral hydrogen flow reduction furnace. This innovative process replaces carbon with hydrogen as the primary reducing agent, promising a dramatic reduction in carbon emissions – exceeding 95 percent – and paving the way for a more sustainable steel industry.

Successful implementation of the hydrogen reduction furnace requires optimization of its design to maximize reduction efficiency and minimize hydrogen consumption. Engineers address the challenges of operating a high-temperature, hydrogen-rich environment, developing materials capable of withstanding these extreme conditions and ensuring the long-term reliability of the furnace. The development of advanced materials capable of withstanding this environment is paramount, with researchers investigating novel alloys and coatings to enhance durability and performance.

The hydrogen reduction steelmaking project demands advancements across multiple disciplines, including hydrogen sourcing, purification, and efficient delivery to the furnace. Researchers explore diverse hydrogen production methods, such as steam methane reforming with carbon capture, electrolysis powered by renewable energy, and biomass pyrolysis, to establish a cost-effective and sustainable hydrogen supply chain. Furthermore, the development of efficient and cost-effective carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies is essential to maximize the environmental benefits of the process.

Integrating this new technology into existing steelmaking infrastructure presents logistical and economic challenges that require careful consideration and innovative solutions. Adapting existing facilities requires significant investment in new equipment and infrastructure, as well as workforce retraining. The implications of this technology extend far beyond the steel industry, offering a pathway to decarbonize other high-temperature industrial sectors.

Knowledge gained from the hydrogen reduction steelmaking project can be applied to cement production, chemical manufacturing, and other energy-intensive industries, contributing to a broader transition towards a more sustainable industrial landscape. The success of these initiatives requires close collaboration between industry, academia, and government, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of innovation and entrepreneurship. South Korea is actively promoting public-private partnerships and providing incentives for companies to invest in these transformative technologies.