Curator's Take
This initiative represents a significant strategic move by South Korea to position itself as a major player in the global quantum ecosystem, leveraging government-backed support to help domestic quantum startups establish footholds in the crucial U.S. market. The collaboration between KIST and Korea's Ministry of SMEs highlights how nations are increasingly viewing quantum technology as a critical economic and security asset requiring coordinated public-private partnerships. While the U.S. has dominated quantum investment and talent acquisition, South Korea's systematic approach through programs like the Deeptech Project signals intensifying international competition for quantum leadership. This cross-border expansion effort could accelerate global quantum innovation by bringing diverse technological approaches and fresh perspectives to the established U.S. quantum hub ecosystem.
— Mark Eatherly
Summary
Insider Brief PRESS RELEASE — The Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) President Oh Sang-rok announced that it will participate in the SelectUSA Investment Summit 2026 as part of a Korean delegation, together with quantum technology startups supported by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups under the Deeptech Project (DIPS). The initiative, supported by South Korea’s Ministry […]