SK Telecom Unveils Next-Generation Quantum Cryptography at Quantum Korea 2026

Preparing for the AI and 6G Era Presents Vision for PIC-Based, Wireless and Satellite QKD

Technology|
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By Kim Ki-hyuk
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SK Telecom unveils next-generation quantum encryption technology at "Quantum Korea 2026," held at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) starting on the 2nd. Photo courtesy of SK Telecom - Seoul Economic Daily Technology News from South Korea
SK Telecom unveils next-generation quantum encryption technology at "Quantum Korea 2026," held at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) starting on the 2nd. Photo courtesy of SK Telecom

SK Telecom (017670.KS) said Tuesday it has unveiled a wide range of next-generation quantum cryptography technologies and solutions at "Quantum Korea 2026," held at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) in Seoul through Wednesday, under the theme of "Next-Generation Quantum Cryptography Security for the AI and 6G Era."

At the exhibition, the company is showcasing next-generation technologies that overcome the limitations of quantum cryptography, including photonic integrated circuit (PIC)-based quantum key distribution (QKD), PIC-based quantum random number generator (QRNG) technology, and wireless and satellite QKD technology.

SK Telecom has implemented a high-performance 10Gbps QRNG on an ultra-compact chip measuring 10×10mm². The company is developing an integrated QKD chip that includes a transmitter, a receiver, and a QRNG optical system. PIC-based quantum cryptography technology is expected to accelerate wider adoption by enabling miniaturization, cost reduction, and mass production.

In addition, to prepare for the security of hyperspatial three-dimensional communications in the 6G era, SK Telecom is preparing core technologies needed to secure the stability and safety of wireless QKD, while also developing QKD applicable to long-distance wireless communication of up to 30 kilometers. This technology is expected to be capable of satellite deployment through continued future development.

Meanwhile, at the Quantum Korea opening ceremony held the same day, Ryu Tak-gi, head of SK Telecom's network technology division, received an award for meritorious contributions to the development of quantum science and technology (an award from the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Science and ICT). He was recognized for his efforts to expand the base of quantum technology through activities in major quantum-related organizations, including serving as chairman of the Future Quantum Convergence Forum, and for leading the development of technology combining quantum cryptography with modern security technology. "We will continue to lead the advancement and commercialization of quantum technology and continue to serve as a central axis of the global quantum industry ecosystem," Ryu said.

Quantum Korea is Korea's largest global quantum industry exhibition, hosted by the Ministry of Science and ICT, and has been held annually since 2023. It has established itself as a venue for confirming the latest technologies and solutions across the quantum sector.

Original reporting by Kim Ki-hyuk for Seoul Economic Daily.

AI-translated from Korean. Quotes from foreign sources are based on Korean-language reports and may not reflect exact original wording.

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