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South Korea : has released a comprehensive national strategy aimed at positioning the country as the world’s leading producer of quantum chips by 2035, marking a significant step in its efforts to secure technological leadership beyond the era of artificial intelligence. The plan, announced Thursday by the Ministry of Science and ICT, sets out long-term goals to strengthen domestic quantum capabilities and accelerate industrial innovation.

National Vision for the Quantum Era

According to the ministry, the roadmap is designed to build a self-sustaining quantum ecosystem capable of delivering real-world industrial impact. Central to the strategy is the development of homegrown quantum technologies that can complement and expand existing strengths in artificial intelligence and advanced computing. Officials described quantum science as a foundational technology that will shape future economic competitiveness.

Workforce and Industry Development Goals

A key pillar of the initiative is human capital. The government plans to train and support approximately 10,000 specialists in quantum-related fields over the coming years. In parallel, it aims to help establish and grow around 2,000 businesses working across quantum computing, communications, and sensing. These efforts are intended to close talent gaps and encourage innovation across both startups and established firms.

Creation of Regional Quantum Clusters

To support this growth, the ministry will designate five locations by July to serve as dedicated “quantum clusters.” These hubs are expected to bring together universities, research institutes, private companies, and public agencies, creating environments where research and commercialization can progress side by side. The clusters will play a central role in translating scientific breakthroughs into practical applications.

Government Commitment and Policy Coordination

Science Minister Bae Kyung-hoon emphasized that quantum technology will be a defining factor in national competitiveness in the post-AI landscape. He said the government intends to coordinate efforts across industry, academia, research organizations, and the public sector to ensure the plan is implemented effectively. The cluster framework, he added, is meant to anchor South Korea’s ambition to become a global center for quantum research and industry.

International Cooperation With US Firm IonQ

As part of its international outreach, the ministry has signed a memorandum of understanding with US-based quantum computing company IonQ. Under the agreement, IonQ will establish a joint research center in South Korea and invest 15 million US dollars over the next three years. Officials said the partnership is expected to strengthen research collaboration and accelerate technology transfer in advanced quantum systems.

Role of Major Domestic Corporations

Leading South Korean companies are also stepping up their involvement. Firms including Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics, and SK Telecom have formed a consultative body focused on quantum technology cooperation. The group will explore joint projects, information sharing, and potential standards development, reinforcing ties between the private sector and government-led initiatives.

Expanded Research and Development Budget

The quantum roadmap aligns with a broader increase in government research spending. Earlier this month, the ministry announced plans to allocate approximately 8.12 trillion won for science and information and communications technology research and development in 2026, representing a year-on-year increase of more than 25 percent. Of this total, 6.44 trillion won is earmarked for science and technology, while 1.68 trillion won will support ICT programs.

Focus on Future Technologies and Economic Resilience

Officials said the expanded budget is intended to support innovation-driven growth at a time of global economic uncertainty and persistently slow expansion. In addition to quantum science, increased funding will target future-oriented fields such as biotechnology, while reinforcing core technologies critical to key industries, including semiconductors and secondary batteries. These investments form part of South Korea’s broader objective to rank among the world’s top three artificial intelligence powers while preparing for the next wave of technological change.