KT applies quantum cryptography technology to parts of Gyeonggi Province
Verification of 5G data transmission under enhanced security
Quantum Random Number Generation Feature Introduced to Enterprise VPNs


KT announced on the 11th that it has successfully demonstrated the transmission of 5G data after encrypting it using domestically developed quantum cryptography technology. This test is the most fundamental step toward launching services that utilize quantum cryptography technology.

Quantum cryptography is a communication technology that transmits information using 'photons,' which are particles of light. When this technology is applied to a network, communication data can be transmitted in a state where it can be verified only once. If an attempt is made to hack or eavesdrop on a network equipped with quantum cryptography, only corrupted information will be obtained.

KT applied its self-developed 'Quantum Key Distributor (QKD) system' and an 'encryptor' developed by a domestic small and medium-sized enterprise to the 5G network actually used by customers in some areas of Gyeonggi-do in accordance with the international standard of 'Open Layered Architecture (ITU-T Y. 3800)'.

A QKD system is a system that supplies quantum-generated 'encryption keys' to a communication network for data encryption. KT designed a quantum cryptographic communication network with a structure in which encryption equipment encrypts and transmits data using quantum keys supplied by this system.

KT confirmed that stable communication is achieved when data is encrypted and transmitted using quantum cryptography technology, without any drop in speed or additional delay.

In addition to demonstrating the application of quantum cryptography to 5G networks, a test of an "Enterprise Quantum VPN" was also conducted to enhance the security of VPN services by introducing a "quantum random number generation function" into KT's enterprise product, "One Box." Equipment equipped with a quantum random number generation function creates random numbers for which pattern analysis is impossible.

OneBox is a service that virtualizes network equipment, which was previously operated separately by function, into a software form, allowing it to be managed as a single device. Once this service is commercialized with the introduction of quantum cryptography technology, KT's corporate customers will be able to build and use internal networks more securely from hacking threats using the Quantum VPN function.

Lee Jong-sik, Senior Vice President and Head of KT Infrastructure Research Institute, stated, “Over the past four years, we have been researching and developing various quantum cryptographic communication solutions to prepare for the actual threats posed by quantum computers,” adding, “We will strive to provide next-generation quantum security solutions to our customers that leverage KT’s strengths to the fullest.”