KT to Build Nationwide Quantum Cryptography Test Network… Moves to Validate Next-Generation Wireless and Satellite Technologies

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

KT is set to build nationwide-scale infrastructure and validate future technologies in order to expand quantum cryptography, a next-generation security technology drawing attention, into actual industrial fields. The company plans to lay the groundwork for entering the commercialization stage, moving beyond limited pilot environments.

On the 22nd, KT announced that it has begun work on the "2026 Open Quantum Testbed Enhancement and Expansion Project," which is being promoted by the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Korea Institute of Intelligent Defense Intelligence Command Industry Promotion (NIA). The project aims to expand the existing quantum cryptography pilot network, centered on Seoul, Pangyo, and Daejeon, to a nationwide scale by 2028.

KT will oversee the construction and operation of commercial hubs and future technology validation segments. Key construction segments include ▲Daejeon~Daegu, ▲Daejeon~Gwangju, ▲Daegu~Busan, and ▲Seoul~Chuncheon. The company plans to actively utilize domestically produced quantum cryptography equipment to ensure interoperability between different communication networks. Through this, it will sequentially apply quantum security technologies to actual industrial sectors requiring high levels of security, such as finance and healthcare.

Development and validation of next-generation quantum communication technologies will also proceed in parallel. KT will significantly expand the pilot distance for wireless Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), which was previously at the 4.8 km level, to approximately 15 km, and explore the possibility of extending this to satellite communications. In addition, it plans to test "quantum entanglement distribution" technology, a core element in realizing intercontinental or ultra-long-distance quantum networks.

The industry views this project as a significant turning point in expanding quantum security technologies from laboratories to actual commercial sites. However, ensuring compatibility among equipment from various manufacturers and maintaining communication stability are expected to be key challenges for successful commercialization.

A KT official emphasized, "Through this project, we will expand the scope of application of quantum cryptography technology, focusing on core sectors with high security demand, such as public sector, defense, and finance."

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original