SKT is discovering quantum talent and focusing on research and development ranging from quantum communication to quantum-based AI.

SKT announced on the 22nd that it has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Quantum Sapiens Talent Development Center for research and development and exchange in the quantum technology field.

Through this memorandum of understanding, SKT and the Quantum Sapiens Talent Development Center will collaborate on developing educational programs and conducting joint research related to quantum technologies including quantum communication, quantum cryptography, quantum computing, quantum sensing, and quantum-based AI.

SKT stated, "Through this collaboration, we will contribute to nurturing quantum science talent and expanding the quantum ecosystem, which are part of the national quantum development strategy policy." In particular, in a situation where the importance of security is increasingly rising, the company revealed that it will "provide high-level security through quantum cryptography communication technology."

The Quantum Sapiens Talent Development Center is the only domestic industry-academic-research consortium established in 2022 with the goal of nurturing specialized talent to lead the quantum technology era. It involves seven companies including Hyundai Motor Advanced Research Institute, Samsung SDS Research Institute, and EYL, nine universities including Korea University, Kyung Hee University, and Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, and four research institutions. It is targeting the cultivation of more than 180 specialized personnel required by the quantum information industry by 2030.

SKT plans to propose research and development projects, which the Quantum Sapiens Talent Development Center will carry out, and then host joint seminars and workshops on the quantum technology field. SKT is also considering developing quantum-related educational content for in-house educational programs for nurturing quantum science talent and implementing internship programs to enhance practical competencies of future talent.

Additionally, SKT will cooperate on market research for the quantum industry, market research for the quantum computing field considering the confirmation of business areas, and research and development of quantum-based AI and others.

Son In-hyuk, head of innovation business at SKT, stated, "This collaboration is significant in that it contributes to nurturing quantum science talent, which is being emphasized at the national level," and added, "Both parties will closely cooperate in line with the upcoming quantum era and take the lead in expanding the quantum ecosystem."

Choi Man-soo, director of the Quantum Graduate School at Korea University (lead institution), said, "Collaboration with SKT is expected to greatly contribute to nurturing specialized personnel who can adapt to industrial environments and lead the future quantum industry," and added, "We will expand joint research and personnel exchange."