KIST builds quantum technology partnerships with Microsoft and D Wave

SEOUL, South Korea and COLLEGE PARK, Md., Sept. 28, 2026 – The Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) facilitated a delegation of South Korean quantum startups to attend the Quantum World Congress (QWC) 2026, forging crucial international partnerships and entering the U.S. market. KIST, leading the Quantum technology sector under South Korea's Deeptech Incubator Project, utilized its Global Bridge Program to connect startups with overseas research institutions, enterprise partners, and investors.

During QWC 2026, KIST and the startups explored potential collaborations with D-Wave's quantum computing systems, granting Korean startups direct access to advanced quantum infrastructure. KIST also met with Japan's Q-STAR and AIST to strengthen bilateral ties between the Korean and Japanese quantum technology sectors. Additionally, KIST linked Microsoft with participating startups to establish long-term enterprise collaboration opportunities.

OptiQ-Labs, a participating startup, secured plans to open a U.S. East Coast office in November, marking the first U.S. regional presence for a quantum startup backed by the Deeptech Incubator Project. Dr. Kang Sunjoon, Director of KIST's Technology Commercialization Office, stressed the necessity of transforming international connections into sustained partnerships and commercialization opportunities for Korean quantum startups.

KIST remains committed to supporting Korean quantum startups in developing technology partnerships, expanding into global markets, and creating viable commercialization prospects.