When you think of 'quantum technology', do you only think of Google and IBM?

1. Why should we pay attention to ‘Korean’ quantum companies now?

While the US and China are pouring astronomical amounts of money into developing quantum computer hardware, South Korea is taking a slightly different approach. ‘Commercialization of quantum technology’ and ‘security’The focus is on quantum computers, because when they are developed, all current cryptographic systems will become useless first.

Accordingly, the Korean government Announcement of ‘Republic of Korea Quantum Science and Technology Strategy’and announced that it would invest more than 3 trillion won by 2035. This means that there is a huge growth opportunity for companies with related technologies. Find out more about which companies are preparing to ride this huge wave below.

2. Quantum security leader, telecommunications giant

The most certain field to prepare for the quantum era is definitely ‘quantum cryptography.’ Domestic telecommunications companies are standing out in this technology that builds a communication network that is fundamentally impossible to hack.

• SK Telecom: As the 'big brother' of the domestic quantum ecosystem, it is showing the most aggressive investment and commercialization moves. It is the world's number one quantum cryptography communication company in Switzerland. Acquired IDQ earlyWe secured the original technology and based on this, we collaborated with Samsung Electronics to develop the world's first quantum security smartphone. Launch of the 'Galaxy Quantum' seriesI did it.
  This was an important milestone that allowed ordinary users to experience quantum security firsthand. Furthermore, by developing a hybrid solution that combines quantum key distribution (QKD) and quantum-resistant cryptography (PQC) technologies, we are taking the lead in B2B markets that require the highest level of security, such as defense, public, and financial.
• KT: If SK Telecom focuses on individual devices and services, KT 'Quantum Communication Infrastructure' It is a powerhouse in construction. Based on its own technological prowess, it has built a quantum cryptography communication network in major sections across the country, such as the one connecting Seoul and Busan, and has successfully led various demonstration projects based on this.
  In particular, we are cooperating with local governments and public institutions, as well as the financial and medical sectors, including Shinhan Bank and Gangnam Severance Hospital. Proving the stability and reliability of the technology in a real communication environmentWe are focusing on delivering a clear message to B2B customers that they can trust a quantum security network and are laying the foundation for the future quantum internet era.

3. Core component/material powerhouses (feat. related stocks)

Small and medium-sized companies that quietly develop core technologies under the shadow of large corporations may be the real 'hidden gems.' If you are interested in stock investment, you should definitely remember the names of these companies.

• With us: Essential for quantum cryptography 'Single Photon Detector (SPAD)' This is a representative company with related technology. This component, which detects very fine light (photon) signals, acts like the 'eye' of quantum communication. We have succeeded in developing a world-class single photon detector chip, and are promoting the supply to domestic and foreign telecommunications companies and quantum technology companies.
• Coweaver: As a communications equipment specialist, we develop equipment that receives quantum cryptography keys and encrypts and transmits actual data traffic. In particular, we develop equipment that can defend against attacks from quantum computers. 'Quantum-resistant cryptography (PQC)' We develop transmission equipment using our technology and supply it to telecommunications network operators such as KT, and our technological prowess is recognized.
• KCS: We have succeeded in creating a **'quantum random number generator (QRNG)'** that creates unpredictable pure random numbers in a single semiconductor chip together with SK Telecom. Since we have implemented the original technology for creating a 'key' for an unhackable encryption in an ultra-small chip, it has great potential for expansion into various fields such as Internet of Things (IoT) devices and self-driving cars.

4. Large companies and startups preparing for the future

There are also places that are researching quantum computer hardware itself, looking further into the future rather than immediate commercialization.

• Samsung Electronics: Rather than immediate results 'Super-gap future technology' Samsung's style of focusing on preemption is also evident in quantum technology research. Samsung Advanced Institute of Technology (SAIT), which serves as the brain of Samsung, is focusing on the core of quantum computers. Develop and implement 'Qubit' directlyWe are continuously conducting fundamental research.
  Although it still appears to be in the early stages of research and development, if Samsung, which possesses the world's best semiconductor process technology and infrastructure, jumps into the field in earnest, it could create tremendous synergy in the development of stable and scalable qubits.
  This has the greatest potential to become a ‘game changer’ in the quantum computer hardware market in the distant future.
• Korea Quantum Computing (KQC): No matter how good the technology is, if you can't use it, it's just a pie in the sky. KQC is exactly like this. The bridge of 'utilization'It is a specialized startup that plays an important role in letting go.
  In a reality where it is difficult for most domestic companies to build their own quantum computers, KQC Intermediate to safely use IBM's quantum computer through domestic cloud networkFurthermore, we are developing quantum algorithms and software tailored to each industry, such as financial modeling, new drug development, and material simulation, to help domestic companies find specific answers to the question, “How can we solve our company’s problems with quantum technology?”

In this way, Korea's quantum technology ecosystem is growing steadily at various levels. Finally, let's check out the conclusion to see what investment points we should pay attention to.

5. Conclusion: Where are the real opportunities?

As we have seen so far, Korea's quantum technology is not focused on one goal: 'computer development'. Diversified portfolio including security, communications, components, and softwareThis means stable growth potential that is not shaken by the ups and downs of specific technologies.

For now, the telecommunications companies' 'quantum cryptography' sector is showing the most visible results, but in the long term, we should also pay attention to the movements of small and medium-sized companies that supply core components and giants like Samsung Electronics. Investment in future technology always comes with risks and opportunities, but Korea's quantum technology sector, which is growing with the government's strong will, is definitely worth paying attention to. Just remembering the names of the companies introduced today and steadily watching their future movements will be the first step to seizing new opportunities.

* A summary of platforms for quantum computer companies Go see