KT is embarking on a demonstration of the transition to a military security system by applying Quantum-Resistant Cryptography (PQC) to defense communications infrastructure. Ahead of the era of quantum computing, the trend of seeking to address the limitations of existing public-key cryptography is expanding beyond the public and financial sectors into the defense domain.

KT announced on the 19th that it will participate in the '2026 Quantum-Resistant Cryptography Pilot Transition Support Project' promoted by the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Korea Internet & Security Agency (KISA) and apply PQC-based security technology to key national defense systems. This demonstration will be conducted for the Ministry of National Defense and the Army Information and Communications School, and KT has formed a consortium with Daeyoung S-Tech and ESE.

Quantum-resistant cryptography is an encryption technology based on difficult mathematical problems that are hard to decipher even with quantum computers. As concerns grow that existing public-key cryptography systems could become vulnerable in quantum computing environments, major countries and the security industry are preparing to transition their encryption systems, focusing on critical national infrastructure.

In this project, KT will apply PQC modules to key military infrastructure sections, including the smart unit platform and user PC sections, CCTV and NVR systems, drones and ground control systems (GCS), 5G routers, and core networks. It also plans to verify performance and applicability in actual operating environments.

The smart troop platform has a structure that combines equipment from different manufacturers with multiple layers of networks. For this reason, the transition is more difficult than applying security based on a single device or a closed network. KT plans to verify the effectiveness of the national defense data protection system by applying PQC to the entire process from data generation to transmission, storage, and utilization.

KT has previously carried out projects such as the interoperability of heterogeneous quantum cryptography communication between Seoul and Busan, Shinhan Bank's hybrid quantum security network, and the National Cancer Center's AI medical data quantum encryption project. This defense demonstration marks an expansion of existing experience in the public, financial, and medical sectors into the defense domain.

Based on the verification results and operational experience secured through the project, KT plans to expand the application of PQC in the public and private sectors and continue developing security service models that meet global security standards.

Jeon Myeong-jun, Senior Vice President and Head of KT Enterprise Service Division, said, “Quantum-resistant cryptography is a core technology for national cyber security in preparation for the era of quantum computing,” adding, “Through pilot projects in the defense sector, we will enhance the reliability of communication and security technologies and contribute to building a safe AX environment.”