Quantum computing firm IonQ and the Busan Metropolitan Government have signed a memorandum of understanding to drive quantum transformation in South Korea’s second-largest city.
As part of the partnership, IonQ said it will provide quantum computing cloud services, support joint quantum initiatives and help develop the workforce, while the Busan Metropolitan Government will be in charge of cultivating an environment that supports the growth of the quantum technology sector.
IonQ President and CEO Peter Chapman said the partnership not only aims to advance quantum computing but also to create economic and scientific opportunities in South Korea.
Busan Mayor Park Heong-joon expressed excitement about the collaboration, which aims to establish Busan as a global center for quantum computing advancements. “Through this partnership, we aim to unlock new opportunities in sectors like logistics and finance, further cementing Busan’s role at the forefront of technological innovation,” he added.
The partnership builds upon IonQ’s existing collaborations within South Korea, including a renewed partnership with Sungkyunkwan University that provides researchers access to the company’s quantum systems. Additionally, IonQ has an existing MoU with Seoul National University’s Center for Quantum Information Science Education to promote workforce development in quantum information science and technology.