Sejong City, South Korea – September 14, 2023 – In a groundbreaking collaboration, QuEra Computing, a leading neutral-atom quantum computing company based in Boston, has joined forces with Sejong City, the Sejong Special Autonomous City, and the prestigious Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) to establish an extensive quantum industry ecosystem in Sejong City, South Korea.
This three-way partnership aims to leverage Sejong City’s status as a research and development hub and its proximity to renowned academic institutions like KAIST. Sejong City’s reputation as a center of intellectual exploration and innovation makes it the perfect location for fostering a thriving quantum industry.
With their pioneering research originating from Harvard University and MIT, QuEra Computing has made significant strides in quantum technology. As the first company to develop a publicly accessible quantum computer based on neutral atoms, they offer users access to 256 qubits on their Aquila-class machines, with plans for further scaling in the near future. Meanwhile, KAIST acts as a gateway to advanced science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
This groundbreaking collaboration was inspired by the Korea-US Joint Statement on Quantum Information Science and Technology Cooperation, which was made during President Yoon Seok-yeol’s visit to Boston. Subsequently, the hosting of Quantum Korea 2023 in June further highlighted the nation’s commitment to fostering the quantum industry. As part of this commitment, Sejong City aims to cultivate core talents in quantum computing and technological development to support future national quantum projects.
The collaboration between Sejong City, QuEra Computing, and KAIST encompasses various key aspects, including the establishment of infrastructure and research and development initiatives for the quantum computing industry. Additionally, the partnership will focus on developing educational programs to nurture local quantum experts, promoting international academic exchanges, securing government public procurement projects, and raising awareness about the significance of quantum computing in academic and industrial environments.
Sejong Mayor Choi Min-ho emphasized the transformative potential of quantum science and technology in various industries, including computing, communications, and sensors. He expressed Sejong City’s commitment to establishing strategic plans for the quantum industry and ensuring that it becomes a prominent hub for quantum science and technology. The collaboration with QuEra and KAIST will play a pivotal role in realizing this vision.
Alex Keesling, the CEO of QuEra Computing, expressed excitement about joining forces with Sejong City and KAIST, highlighting their leadership in technological innovation and education. Keesling sees this partnership as more than a business agreement; it is a commitment to pushing the boundaries of the quantum frontier. By combining QuEra’s cutting-edge neutral-atom quantum computing capabilities with Sejong City’s visionary infrastructure and KAIST’s academic excellence, the collaboration will shape the future of quantum computing not only in South Korea but also worldwide. Together, they aim to unlock new possibilities in quantum science, including research and development, education, and public awareness. This partnership marks an exhilarating moment for all parties involved, envisioning a future where quantum computing becomes a transformative force across various industries.
FAQ:
What is quantum computing?
Quantum computing is an emerging field of study that harnesses the principles of quantum mechanics to manipulate and process information. Unlike classical computers, which utilize bits to represent data as 0s and 1s, quantum computers utilize quantum bits or qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously.
Who are the major partners in this partnership?
The partnership involves QuEra Computing, a neutral-atom quantum computing company based in Boston, Sejong City, the Sejong Special Autonomous City in South Korea, and the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST).
What are the goals of this partnership?
The partnership aims to establish a vibrant quantum industry ecosystem in Sejong City, South Korea. It focuses on building infrastructure and research and development initiatives, developing educational programs, promoting international academic exchanges, securing government projects, and increasing awareness about the importance of quantum computing.
How will this collaboration impact the quantum industry?
This collaboration brings together the expertise of QuEra Computing, KAIST, and Sejong City to drive advancements in quantum computing. By combining cutting-edge technology, visionary infrastructure, and academic excellence, the partnership aims to unlock new possibilities in quantum science and promote its transformative potential in various industries.