International Conference on Future Quantum Technologies Opens... Pohang Presents Vision as 'Quantum Research Hub City'

On October 16, the city of Pohang held the opening ceremony for the 2nd International Conference on Future Quantum Technologies at the POSCO International Center, with leading global quantum science scholars and domestic and international researchers in attendance.

This event brought together around 300 quantum experts, including renowned scholars, researchers from Korea and abroad, and industry representatives, to share the latest research achievements and future development strategies in key areas such as quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing. The goal was to establish a platform for international joint research and exchange.

World-renowned scholars such as Professor Fabio Sciarrino from Sapienza University of Rome and Professor Peter Zoller from the University of Innsbruck delivered keynote speeches introducing international trends in quantum error correction, photonic and superconducting-based technologies, and quantum materials research. Professors from Korean academia presented on the current state of research in quantum cryptography and quantum sensor fields.

Quantum technology is being applied in the bio sector for the discovery of new drug candidates and early diagnosis of viruses and diseases through highly sensitive quantum biosensors. In manufacturing and semiconductors, it is utilized for production planning based on quantum computers and defect analysis of next-generation semiconductor and battery materials.

Furthermore, quantum technology is expanding into the energy, finance, and space sectors, and is emerging as a core technology driving paradigm shifts across future industries.

Currently, countries around the world are designating quantum technology as a strategic industry and pursuing large-scale national investments. The United States and China are fiercely competing for leadership in quantum computing and quantum communication, while the European Union has announced four key areas and an implementation plan through the "EU Quantum Strategy." Japan is accelerating technological independence by developing its own quantum computers.

The Republic of Korea has designated quantum technology as a national breakthrough strategic technology that will transform the paradigm of future industries, and has declared this year the first year of quantum industrialization, allocating 198 billion won to related projects and concentrating national capabilities.

The government is making every effort to close the technological gap with leading countries such as the United States and China and to secure leadership in the global competition.

Pohang plans to use this forum as a springboard to realize its vision of becoming a "quantum technology-centered city." The city will expand international joint research based on world-class research infrastructure such as POSTECH, the Asia Pacific Center for Theoretical Physics (APCTP), and the Pohang Accelerator Laboratory, while also fostering specialized talent and nurturing startups.

In particular, Pohang's fourth-generation synchrotron accelerator is regarded as an optimal experimental infrastructure for quantum materials research. POSTECH researchers have demonstrated Pohang's technological capabilities by achieving world-class results, such as successfully visualizing the space-time dynamics of quantum spin waves using this facility.

Deputy Mayor Jang Sangkil stated, "Quantum technology is the key to national competitiveness and the driving force of the future industrial revolution," adding, "We will actively support the expansion of research infrastructure and international cooperation so that Pohang can grow into a global hub for quantum technology in Korea."

Poster for the 2nd International Conference on Future Quantum Technologies.

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