Quantum Computing Expert Returning to Korea: "I Will Forge a New Path Here"

A New Chapter for Quantum Computing in Korea
Ki-Hwan Kim Returns to Lead at IBS
"I Will Create Opportunities for the Next Generation"

"I want to bring together talented researchers and grow alongside them."

Professor Ki-Hwan Kim of Tsinghua University is delivering the keynote speech at KSC2025. Photo by Jongmin Baek, Tech Specialist

This is the resolution expressed by Professor Ki-Hwan Kim, a world-renowned expert in quantum computing at Tsinghua University in China, ahead of his return to Korea. Having developed his career as a researcher in China, he is preparing for a new beginning at the Institute for Basic Science (IBS) within this year, demonstrating a strong commitment to contributing to the advancement of Korea's quantum computing field.

On September 5, after delivering the keynote speech at KSC2025 (Korea Supercomputing Conference) held at COEX in Seoul, Professor Kim told Asia Economy, "In the past, there was no place for me in Korea. Now, my role is to create opportunities for younger generations to pursue their dreams." He added, "While I will devote myself to basic research, my students can branch out into industrialization and commercialization. I want my lab to be the starting point for talented individuals to take various paths."

The newly established 'Quantum Building' at the IBS headquarters in Daejeon will serve as his base. There, Professor Kim will lead the Ion Trap-Based Quantum Information Science Research Group.

Professor Kim is an authority on ion trap quantum computers. He stated, "Ion traps are highly precise and stable, but they are often criticized for their limitations in scalability and speed. It is precisely these weaknesses that become the subject of research. I want to find breakthroughs and demonstrate new possibilities." He also emphasized that, since a fully functional quantum computer does not yet exist, making international contributions through papers and basic research is more important than ever.

He also expressed his commitment to convergence research between quantum computers and supercomputers. "There are problems that cannot be solved with quantum alone. By connecting with supercomputers and integrating AI, we can secure future competitiveness," he said, showing interest in conducting research utilizing the supercomputers at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI), located near IBS.

Professor Kim admitted, "I am somewhat afraid of whether I can succeed, but I decided that moving to Korea before it is too late is the right choice." He pledged to pave a new path in Korea and expressed his hope to conduct research with outstanding students and colleagues.

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