“Quantum computers are still in their early stages, with the system not yet fully established. We already possess world-class capabilities in the analog aspects surrounding QPU (quantum processor) observation and connectivity. We are also focusing on QRAM (quantum memory) for future quantum computers."

 

Park Jun Seok, Head of the Next-Generation Communications Business Unit at Kookmin University, introduced the current quantum computing ecosystem and future direction in an interview with IT Chosun. Kookmin University announced plans to implement an educational environment offering students diverse possibilities in the ‘Quantum Computing Era’ by directly introducing IQM's quantum computer, alongside collaborations with AWS (Amazon Web Services) and IBM.

 

Kookmin University presented its vision to become a leading university in quantum technology at its ‘Quantum Campus Declaration Ceremony’ last July. This is part of its strategy to enter the ranks of ‘Korea's Top 10, World's Top 100’ universities. The plan involves fostering ultra-competitive specialized fields by integrating quantum technology in computing, communications, and sensing with existing specialized fields and those in the process of becoming specialized. The university also outlined plans for proactive industry-academic collaboration and inter-university cooperation, unbound by geographical constraints.

In the very early stages of quantum computing, there are paths beyond ‘QPU’

 

Director Park Jun Seok described the current state of quantum computers as “similar to the early days of the PC market.” This means the hardware framework exists, but the operating environment system is not yet fully established. Director Park Jun Seok explained, “Quantum computers currently lack essential components like quantum operating systems or quantum memory capable of directly storing quantum data. They are primarily focused on front-end algorithm verification and back-end computational applications. While effective for solving specific problems, their universality is limited.”

 

He further noted that while the ‘quantum processor unit (QPU)’ is central to current quantum computing, the domains of operating the QPU and observing results remain ‘traditional analog-centric fields like optics, microwaves, environmental control, and interface technologies.’ Park Jun Seok emphasized, "The QPU's importance in building a quantum computer is less significant than one might think. The methods for connecting to the QPU and observing quantum phenomena rely heavily on existing ‘analog’ capabilities and ultra-high-frequency RF (Radio Frequency) communication expertise. In this area, we already possess world-class competitiveness.“ He added, ”In the quantum computing era, changes in the user experience (UX) aspect are also a crucial element that must not be overlooked."

 

Director Park Jun Seok stated, “Memory was the catalyst for advancement in the computing era. In the quantum era, we are focusing on ‘quantum memory (QRAM)’ to process information in its quantum state directly.” He continued, “Demand for quantum memory could grow exponentially as quantum computers proliferate and data structures evolve. Korea possesses world-class semiconductor microfabrication technology. Leveraging this could fundamentally shift the landscape.”

 

Meanwhile, concerns were raised about the current state policy support focusing interest on specific fields and topics. Park Jun Seok, the director, mentioned, “Currently, even experts don't know everything about quantum technology,” adding, “Rather than setting topics and directions centered around specific institutions, it would be preferable to create a structure where resources can be distributed evenly across many universities and research institutions.”

Kookmin University's ‘Quantum Campus’ : Choosing Both Quantum Computer Adoption and Collaboration with Existing Systems

 

Kookmin University presented its vision to become a leading university in quantum technology at its ‘Quantum Campus Declaration Ceremony’ last July. At that time, Kookmin University outlined three strategic directions: building a demonstration platform for technology commercialization, growing research hubs to secure technological leadership, and cultivating industry-tailored quantum talent. Particularly noteworthy is the plan to directly introduce quantum computers while also pursuing collaboration with IBM and AWS (Amazon Web Services), which possess existing quantum computing technology.

 

The strategic aspect of entering the ‘Top 10 in Korea, Top 100 Globally’ was cited as a key reason for Kookmin University's ‘Quantum Campus’ declaration. To achieve this, Kookmin University aims to diversify its specialized fields and identify five ultra-competitive specialization areas. It plans to integrate quantum technology in computing, communications, and sensing with its existing specialized fields and those in the process of becoming specialized. This will foster five ultra-competitive specialization areas in quantum technology-based engineering, humanities, and social sciences.

 

Director Park Jun Seok explained, “Through MOUs with IBM and AWS, we are developing multiple quantum cloud-based educational programs. We have established a new Quantum Convergence Department and are preparing to launch undergraduate programs in the second half of the year. These undergraduate programs will include quantum platform development and quantum algorithm practical training.” He added, “We are discussing the introduction of an on-premises quantum computer. If possible, we aim to introduce a multi-qubit system usable for both education and research.” He further mentioned, “We have also proposed a future environment combining the QRAM we are researching with quantum memory-based quantum communication on quantum computers.”

 

Regarding quantum computer adoption, Director Park Jun Seok added, “Securing multiple approaches to quantum computing will provide tangible benefits to students. Alongside the diversity of cloud environments, I believe it would be beneficial to establish an environment where promising talent can receive more advanced, innovative education in an on-premise setting.”

 

Areas expected to benefit from quantum technology integration include Kookmin University's existing competitive fields: ‘Finance, Logistics, and Management,’ 'AI,‘ 'Eco-friendly Future Vehicles,’ and ‘Bio.’ Particularly high value is anticipated for quantum computers in precise electric vehicle battery evaluation, new drug development, genetic analysis, logistics optimization, and risk management. Director Park Jun Seok further stated, “I believe we must now consider providing new user experiences in quantum computing as well. Kookmin University has departments addressing these areas, and we plan to prepare through collaboration.”

 

Kookmin University is also exploring plans to introduce a quantum computer suitable for establishing a supercomputer environment in the Seoul metropolitan area to its northern district, enabling shared use with nearby universities. Director Park Jun Seok mentioned, "This introduction attempt is the first among universities in Seoul. There are eight universities within Seongbuk-gu, and expanding to include Jongno and Nowon-gu brings the total to about 16 institutions. We also plan to discuss building cloud infrastructure that can be shared with these schools.“

 

Regarding industry-academic collaboration, he stated, ”Location is not an issue.“ Director Park Jun Seok emphasized, ”Our industry-academic collaboration targets are not constrained by physical distance. Kookmin University, for instance, ranked first in technology transfer achievements in 2023 despite being located without surrounding industrial complexes.“ He added, ”We are also considering global tech companies like AWS, IBM, and IQM as potential industry partners and will strive to achieve good results.“ Furthermore, he noted, ”Regarding current social issues like regional depopulation, we need to explore different approaches, including administrative systems."

 

Partner universities with existing collaborative relationships are also being considered for cooperation utilizing the on-premise quantum computer Kookmin University will install. The first potential partners are universities participating in the ‘Next-Generation Communication Innovation Convergence University Project’. Director Park Jun Seok currently serves as the overall project director for this initiative, which includes Kookmin University, the University of Seoul, Korea Aerospace University, Ulsan University of Science and Technology, and Chonnam National University.

 

Furthermore, considering the seven other universities participating in the Future Mobility Project alongside Kookmin University, as well as nearby universities with which MOUs have been signed, Kookmin University anticipates conducting quantum computer-based collaborations with approximately 20 universities. Director Park Jun Seok stated, “We also have plans to broaden the foundation of quantum computing, centered around northern Seoul, by providing quantum computing-related educational programs to these 20 or so universities.”

 

Reporter Kwon Yong Man

 

※ This article was reported by Kwon Yong Man of IT Chosun and has been published with permission.
 

 

This content is translated from Korean to English using the AI translation service DeepL and may contain translation errors such as jargon/pronouns. If you find any, please send your feedback to kookminpr@kookmin.ac.kr so we can correct them.   View original article [click]