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The Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) has signaled a major push to transition domestic quantum innovations from the laboratory to the global marketplace. During the Quantum World Congress 2026, the institute outlined a comprehensive framework designed to accelerate the international expansion of South Korean quantum deep-tech startups.
By focusing on 'deep-tech'—technologies rooted in significant scientific breakthroughs—KIST aims to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial viability. The initiative is designed to provide startups with the necessary infrastructure, networking, and strategic guidance to navigate the complex international regulatory and technical landscapes of the quantum industry.
This move is particularly significant as the global race for quantum supremacy intensifies. For startups, the ability to scale beyond domestic borders is critical for securing the capital and diverse talent pools required to develop next-generation quantum computing, communication, and sensing technologies. KIST's involvement provides a prestigious institutional backbone for these emerging companies.
At the Quantum World Congress 2026, the focus remained on fostering a collaborative ecosystem. By facilitating connections between Korean innovators and international stakeholders, KIST is positioning South Korea as a pivotal hub in the global quantum supply chain, ensuring that domestic breakthroughs contribute to the broader evolution of the global quantum economy.