S.Korea Unveils $134M Quantum Tech Investment Plan for 2025

Sejong, South Korea—The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) announced a KRW 198 billion (US$134.1 million) investment in quantum science and technology for 2025, representing a 54.1% increase from the funding provided in 2024.

The ministry will execute 24 projects, including 32 new tasks across 15 initiatives, as part of the country's strategic quantum technology development program.

The investment includes a new quantum computing service infrastructure project to install and provide verified quantum computers to domestic research institutions. 

The ministry will also fund the development of localized quantum communication materials to strengthen technological self-reliance.

MSIT will establish two research hubs in 2025, one focusing on next-generation quantum research and the other on applied quantum research. 

These hubs will be operated by government-funded research institutes collaborating with academia and industry partners.

The program includes the Global Partnership Program, designed to facilitate international cooperation between domestic universities and leading global quantum research institutions.

"With 2025 designated as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology by the United Nations, we will establish this year as the foundation for quantum industrialization," said Kwon Hyun-jun, Director-General of R&D Policy at MSIT.

Project details will be published on the websites of the National Research Foundation of Korea (KRF) and the Institute of Information & Communications Technology Planning & Evaluation (IITP).