On Wednesday, the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI) announced a groundbreaking partnership with NVIDIA, a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) computing, and IonQ, a quantum computing specialist. The trio signed a memorandum of understanding in San Jose, California, to collaborate on quantum-high performance computing (HPC) hybrid technology and ecosystem development.
This initiative is part of the Quantum Computing Service and Utilization System Establishment Project, backed by South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT. The ambitious plan aims to physically integrate IonQ’s next-generation quantum computer, Tempo, with Korea’s upcoming national supercomputer, HANGANG, set to launch later this year. This fusion is expected to create a world-class quantum-HPC hybrid computing environment.
The collaboration goes beyond mere infrastructure integration. The three tech giants will work on developing an integrated platform that simulates complex algorithms on the supercomputer and optimizes them for quantum hardware execution. Key focus areas include hardware integration, application technology development, next-gen quantum algorithm simulation, quantum-accelerated AI model research, global talent cultivation, and expansion of Korea’s quantum ecosystem.
This partnership marks a significant milestone as the first real-world integration of a high-performance graphic processing unit (GPU) supercomputer with a commercial ion trap quantum computer. It positions South Korea at the forefront of global quantum hybrid computing technology standards.
NVIDIA will contribute its quantum-HPC integrated platform, CUDA-Q, and its cutting-edge GPU acceleration technology, NVQLink. These technologies will enable high-speed simulations, real-time hardware integration, and enhanced quantum error correction (QEC). IonQ’s Tempo, a 100-qubit ion trap quantum computer, brings to the table its impressive high fidelity and extended coherence times.
Jensen Huang, NVIDIA’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), predicted that in the near future, all GPU supercomputers will be closely integrated with quantum processors in a hybrid form. He also committed to establishing a Center of Excellence (CoE) in collaboration with KISTI. Meanwhile, IonQ is reinforcing its commitment to Korea’s quantum computing landscape through a separate agreement with the government to establish a Quantum Solutions Innovation Hub.
KISTI Director Lee Sik-won hailed the partnership as a pivotal moment in advancing Korea’s quantum-HPC integration technology and delivering world-class computing capabilities. They’re committed to maximizing the synergy between HANGANG and Tempo, positioning Korea as a key player in the emerging global quantum economy, Lee stated.
