IonQ and KISTI Finalize Agreement for Groundbreaking Quantum Computing Initiative in South Korea

On December 29, 2025, IonQ Inc. (NYSE: IONQ), the preeminent player in quantum computing, announced a significant advancement in its strategic partnership with the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI). The collaboration culminates in the delivery of a cutting-edge 100-qubit IonQ Tempo quantum system, marking a pivotal milestone in the establishment of South Korea's National Quantum Computing Center of Excellence.

This agreement sets the stage for a robust hybrid quantum-classical research initiative, integrating IonQ’s advanced systems into KISTI's HPC cluster, HANGANG. This integration not only signifies the first instance of hybrid quantum-classical onsite capability in South Korea but also positions the nation at the forefront of global quantum research.

The deployment of the IonQ Tempo 100 quantum system is anticipated to bolster KISTI’s research capabilities significantly. The system will be integrated into the KISTI-6, recognized as Korea’s largest high-performance computing cluster, and will be accessible via a secure private cloud environment. This setup will allow researchers, universities, and enterprises across South Korea to leverage quantum computing for enhanced research and innovation.

Niccolo de Masi, Chairman and CEO of IonQ, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “This is a defining moment for both IonQ and South Korea, as we deploy our most advanced quantum systems to address the nation's most significant research and innovation challenges.” He highlighted the collaboration's potential to deliver vital infrastructure, algorithms, and expertise to unlock long-term technological and economic value from IonQ's leading quantum computers.

KISTI will spearhead the development and management of a quantum computing service and research platform, designed to cater to both academic and enterprise applications. By designating IonQ as the primary technology provider, KISTI aims to leverage the company’s unparalleled capabilities in quantum computing to foster groundbreaking research in various fields, including healthcare, finance, and materials science. Dr. Sik Lee, President of KISTI, emphasized the collaboration's significance, stating, “This collaboration with IonQ represents a significant leap forward in our commitment to advancing quantum computing in South Korea.”

This partnership is a testament to IonQ's expanding influence in the Asia-Pacific region, adding to its existing collaborations with notable organizations such as AIST and Toyota Tsusho in Japan. The company is also working with prominent South Korean enterprises like SK Telecom, Hyundai Motor Company, and Intellian Technologies, along with prestigious academic institutions such as Seoul National University and Sungkyunkwan University.

IonQ is on a mission to deliver the world’s most powerful quantum computers, aiming for an ambitious target of 2 million qubits by 2030. This vision is set to accelerate innovation across various sectors, including drug discovery, materials science, financial modeling, logistics, cybersecurity, and defense. The company’s recent achievements, including a record-setting 99.99% two-qubit gate fidelity, further solidify its leadership position in the quantum computing arena.

The integration of IonQ’s technology into KISTI's national flagship supercomputer HANGANG is anticipated to create practical solutions to real-world challenges, underscoring the transformative potential of quantum computing in addressing some of today’s most pressing issues.

As IonQ and KISTI embark on this groundbreaking partnership, the implications for quantum computing in South Korea and beyond are profound. With the integration of advanced quantum systems into existing infrastructures, the collaboration is poised to unlock new frontiers in research and innovation, reaffirming both IonQ's and South Korea's commitment to leading the global quantum revolution. The future of quantum computing looks promising, and this partnership is a significant step towards realizing that potential.