LG Electronics and KT are embarking on joint research and development of quantum internet communication technology, accelerating the acquisition of core technologies for the future communications industry.

The two companies recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for 'Quantum Internet R&D Technology Cooperation' at the KT Umyeon Research Center in Seocho-gu, Seoul, and announced that they have begun technical cooperation to build an ultra-secure network based on quantum direct communication.

Quantum Direct Communication (QDC) is an ultra-secure technology that utilizes quantum information units like qubits, exploiting quantum properties like superposition and entanglement. If an attempt is made to eavesdrop or intercept data transmission, the quantum state collapses, preventing information theft. It offers a significantly higher level of security than conventional communications and is expected to provide robust security for convergence services that require machine-to-human communication, such as AI homes, smart factories, and autonomous vehicles.

Through this agreement, the two companies will jointly pursue the development of quantum repeater and network element technologies, establishment of a verification environment, response to domestic and international standardization, and creation of an ecosystem. LG Electronics has successfully developed a technology that simultaneously enhances the security and transmission speed of quantum communications, leveraging its accumulated core technologies in the communications field. This technology was published in the international academic journal "Scientific Reports" and selected as one of the Top 100 Physics Papers of 2024. This paper ranked second overall in citations and attention in the field of quantum technology, demonstrating its technological prowess.

KT will be responsible for system implementation and verification, leveraging its wired and wireless quantum key distribution (QKD) technology implementation capabilities and demonstration experience. Following last year's 6G R&D collaboration, the two companies will expand their collaboration to include quantum internet, revitalizing the domestic quantum technology ecosystem and strengthening the foundation for industrialization.

KT Future Network Research Center Director Lee Jong-sik said, “Through this collaboration with LG Electronics, we expect to secure the fundamental technology for the quantum internet and strengthen our verification capabilities,” adding, “By implementing the quantum internet, we will suggest the direction of quantum technology in future networks.”

LG Electronics C&M Standards Research Institute Director Je Young-ho stated, “Quantum Internet communication is a core technology that will form the foundation of the future communications industry,” and added, “We will actively pursue research and development that will bring the technology closer to reality and secure leading competitiveness in the global market.”