Full-Scale Discussion on South Korea-Led Quantum Technology Standardization Strategy

International Conference on Publication of Quantum Technology White Paper by International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)
Discussion on International Standardization Strategies for Next-Generation Batteries at the 84th IEC General Meeting

Electron microscope image of nanoscale bismuth selenide, a clue to quantum computers (a), and cross-sectional electron microscope image of nanoscale bismuth selenide (b). (Photo by Korea Basic Science Institute)

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Chae-seok] The National Institute of Technology and Standards under the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced on the 13th that South Korea held an international online meeting on the 11th to discuss international standardization strategies for quantum technology and to publish the first International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) white paper.

Quantum technology is next-generation information technology that utilizes the physical properties of quanta, the smallest units of energy. It enables ultra-high-speed large-capacity computing and encrypted communication. The IEC is a prestigious international standardization organization established in 1906.

This white paper publication meeting was an opportunity to actively discuss the topic "Standardization Strategy and Technical Directions for Quantum Technology," which South Korea proposed as the IEC white paper theme for next year and was adopted in July, together with global experts.

A total of 29 experts from overseas, including the United States, Japan, and China, participated via video, along with South Korea's "Quantum Technology Standardization Promotion Committee."

The Promotion Committee consists of 19 members, including Professor Kim Dong-seop of National Mokpo University (Project Leader, IEC Market Strategy Committee Executive), Director Park Seong-su of Korea Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (Chairman), Chief Lee Taek-min of Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (General Secretary), and Center Director Hwang Tae-ho of Korea Electronics Technology Institute (Technical Secretary).

The IEC white paper on quantum technology is scheduled to be published at the next IEC General Assembly around October next year. It will reflect South Korea's quantum technology and the technologies of various countries overseas.

Meanwhile, South Korea also participated remotely in the 84th IEC General Assembly held from the 9th to the 13th to discuss international standardization strategies in the electrical and electronics fields.

South Korea participated in all policy committees for top decision-making in the standards field, including the IEC Board (CB), Standardization Management Board (SMB), and Conformity Assessment Board (CAB).

In particular, at this SMB meeting, South Korea focused on discussing strategies for seven major future technology international standardization areas related to next-generation batteries, autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles, and other technologies that South Korea is prioritizing for standardization.

Lee Seung-woo, Director of the National Institute of Technology and Standards, explained, "The future technology fields such as quantum technology and next-generation batteries discussed during this IEC General Assembly are linked to last year's 'International Standardization Preemptive Strategy for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Era,' which South Korea proactively prepared."

He added, "The National Institute of Technology and Standards will do its utmost to support South Korea's industrial sector's international standardization activities so that our companies' R&D new technologies can be reflected in international standards, enabling them to preoccupy overseas markets and contribute to export promotion."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.