Korean Quantum Computing Startups Eye Global Leadership
Driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), the global technology landscape is rapidly evolving, with quantum computing emerging as a key technology in the ‘post-AI’ era. South Korean companies are at the forefront of this revolution, developing innovative hardware and software solutions to compete in the international market.
An IBM Quantum Computer. [Photo = IBM]
Quantum computers, which harness the principles of quantum mechanics, differ fundamentally from traditional computers. Instead of bits representing 0 or 1, quantum computers use “qubits” that can exist in multiple states simultaneously. This unique capability allows them to perform calculations that would take supercomputers thousands of years in just hours. This has significant implications across diverse industries.
Commercialized quantum computers are expected to lead to breakthroughs in complex fields such as climate modeling, financial market prediction, and new drug development. Companies worldwide are racing to develop this technology and gain a foothold in the market. Korean startups are also making their mark, demonstrating considerable technological prowess and innovative approaches in manufacturing and software.
SDT: A ‘Dell’ in the Quantum Computing World
SDT, a quantum ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) company, aims to become a leader in the quantum field and is a prime example of Korean innovation. Similar to how companies such as Dell, Samsung, and LG manufacture and sell computers, SDT manufactures various equipment for quantum computers. If IBM, Google, and Microsoft are manufacturing QPUs, essentially the “chips” of quantum computers, SDT is building the complete quantum computer systems that run on them.
SDT’s plans include developing a 64-qubit superconductor quantum computer by the first half of 2026. The company has also formed a joint venture with Singapore’s Anion Technology to develop and supply superconducting quantum computers.
Expanding its global presence, SDT collaborated with Malaysia’s MIMOS research institute in the past month to build Malaysia’s first superconducting quantum computer. The company is also working towards a superconducting quantum computer with over 1,000 qubits by 2030. Following a pre-IPO investment of 20 billion won last year, SDT is targeting an initial public offering (IPO) this year, positioning itself to become Korea’s leading quantum technology company.
“Since there are not many manufacturing-oriented quantum businesses worldwide, SDT has an opportunity to solidify its position as a manufacturing leader in the quantum field,” stated SDT CEO Yoon Ji-won. “We will further strengthen our leadership in the global quantum industry market based on innovative quantum technology development and strategic partnerships.”
Qunova: Enhancing Quantum Computer Performance with Software
Qunova, a startup founded by KAIST professor Lee Joon-gu, is dedicated to developing quantum software that can enhance the performance of currently available quantum computers. Qunova has developed an algorithm to boost the performance of computers with 100 to 150 qubits. Due to error rates, only a fraction of qubits (10 to 20) are typically usable for computation. Qunova’s software allows for the use of 60 to 70 qubits, a significant improvement.
“This level of computation is currently considered a limitation that supercomputers can do,” stated Lee Jun-gu, CEO of Qunova. “The goal is to increase quantum computer performance based on continuous development in the future.”
The company’s quantum solution, “HiVQE,” demonstrates performance and precision that is over 1,000 times faster than the “VQE” algorithm commonly used in the field. Qunova’s technology has proven to perform optimally on quantum computers produced by IBM and IQM. Furthermore, the company has developed the “Milky Way” solution for applications like new drug development and new material design alongside a program called “Pulsa” that simulates complex molecular properties accurately. CEO Lee Jun-gu hopes to expand quantum computer use to a variety of fields like chemistry and pharmaceuticals.
In recognition of its groundbreaking technology, Qunova secured a Free A investment of 5 billion won in 2023.
Quantum Intelligence: Software Solutions for the Quantum Era and AI
Quantum Intelligence, established in 2020, is focused on the commercialization of quantum computing software, combining it with AI technology. The company developed Quest, a new drug development platform specifically designed for quantum computing.
“To simulate complex proteins, the computing power of supercomputers is insufficient,” said Choi Hwan-ho, CEO of Quantum Intelligence. “We have developed a new drug development solution optimized for quantum computing.”
While AI-based software requires extensive datasets, quantum computers prioritize software’s ability to realistically represent real-world phenomena. CEO Choi Hwan-ho says, “If companies like Google and IBM lead hardware in the quantum computer field, we are preparing to preempt the software market that will unfold in the future.”
These companies are currently part of the Ministry of SMEs and Startups’ “Super Gap Startup 1000+ Project” and partner with the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), a government-funded research institute. KIST plans to actively promote technology development and commercialization through collaboration with Korean quantum startups.
