D-Wave, Yonsei University, and Incheon City join forces to expand quantum computing in South Korea
A new three-way agreement outlines plans for collaborative research, talent development, and the potential installation of a D-Wave Advantage2 quantum system at Yonsei University’s International Campus.
D-Wave Quantum has signed a memorandum of understanding with Yonsei University and Incheon Metropolitan City to expand the use of quantum computing technologies in South Korea.
The agreement focuses on joint research, talent development, and commercial applications, with discussions underway around the installation of a D-Wave Advantage2 system at Yonsei University’s Songdo campus.
D-Wave, headquartered in Palo Alto, provides both annealing and gate-model quantum computers for enterprise use. Its systems are available via cloud or on-premises installation, and the company reports more than 200 million problems submitted to its platforms to date.
Under the agreement, the three parties will explore use cases in biotechnology, materials science, and other sectors. D-Wave will provide access to its quantum technology, while Yonsei University and Incheon City support local deployment and talent growth initiatives.
Dr. Alan Baratz, CEO of D-Wave, says: “This strategic relationship marks an important step in furthering D-Wave’s mission to accelerate global quantum computing adoption. Yonsei University and Incheon Metropolitan City recognize the remarkable, immediate opportunity for scientific breakthroughs and business transformation possible with D-Wave’s quantum computing technology. We look forward to the possibility of installing a system at Yonsei University to further establish its role as a global quantum hub.”
Quantum expansion at Yonsei
Yonsei University completed the construction of its Quantum Convergence Research Center earlier this year. The center is part of the broader Yonsei Quantum Complex, which includes facilities for quantum education and interdisciplinary research.
Dong-Sup Yoon, president of Yonsei University, says: “This collaboration with D-Wave and Incheon Metropolitan City supports our mission to facilitate a collaborative ecosystem for quantum computing literacy, research and commercial application development. By working together towards the introduction of a D-Wave annealing quantum computer onsite at Yonsei University, we believe we are opening up significant opportunities to advance industry and research in South Korea.”
Yonsei University plans to expand global partnerships and invest further in quantum capabilities across science and engineering disciplines.
Incheon supports industrial integration
Incheon Metropolitan City, which includes South Korea’s largest airport and the Incheon Free Economic Zone, is backing the agreement as part of its strategy to strengthen advanced technology sectors.
The city reported over KRW 117 trillion in Gross Regional Domestic Product last year and is focusing on building its position as a top ten global city. Quantum computing is being explored as a cross-sector enabler to support industries such as life sciences, manufacturing, and logistics.
Yoo Jeong-bok, mayor of Incheon, adds:“We have a unique opportunity to establish Incheon as a global quantum hub. Building on Incheon’s strengths in the bio industry and other key sectors, we anticipate the emergence of a true quantum cluster where quantum technology converges with various industries to create innovative breakthroughs and attract top talent from around the world.”
