Yonsei University Installs Second University-Based IBM Quantum System One Globally

November 19, 2024

Yonsei University, in partnership with IBM, has achieved a significant milestone by deploying the first IBM Quantum System One in the Republic of Korea. This development marks only the second time such a cutting-edge system has been installed on a university campus worldwide. Located at Yonsei’s Songdo International Campus Quantum Computing Center, this advanced setup is set to become a cornerstone for research and development in quantum computing, benefiting not only Yonsei but also other academic institutions, businesses, and organizations that collaborate with the university in Korea.

Dong-Sup Yoon, the president of Yonsei University, emphasized the importance of this installation, stating, “By installing the first IBM Quantum System One in Korea, Yonsei has established a robust foundation for top-tier research and education in quantum computing and advanced biology. Our objective is to attract leading quantum researchers, collaborate with the world’s foremost quantum research institutions, and produce innovative research outcomes. Ultimately, we aim to enhance the quality of human life.”

The IBM Quantum System One at Yonsei represents a part of IBM’s global network of utility-scale quantum computers, and it is the fifth of its kind located at dedicated sites around the world, including in the United States, Canada, Germany, and Japan. This system is powered by a 127-qubit IBM Quantum Eagle processor, offering Yonsei’s community of researchers, students, and partners dedicated access to a utility-scale quantum computer.

In 2023, IBM demonstrated the IBM Eagle’s ability to perform accurate calculations that extend beyond classical simulation methods, a breakthrough known as quantum utility. This signifies the beginning of an era where quantum systems can be utilized as scientific tools to tackle complex problems in various fields such as chemistry, physics, and materials science. The goal is to achieve quantum advantage, where quantum computing provides tangible benefits that surpass the capabilities of classical computing methods in terms of cost, speed, or accuracy.

Jay Gambetta, Vice President of IBM Quantum, expressed excitement about this collaboration, saying, “We are delighted to have partnered with Yonsei University to introduce a utility-scale quantum computer to Korea. We anticipate that this will empower more research institutions, companies, and talents across the country to explore the potential of quantum algorithms for scientific and business applications. The IBM Quantum System One in Korea will serve as a vital foundation for cultivating future quantum talent and expanding the region’s quantum ecosystem.”

In March 2025, Yonsei University plans to hold an opening ceremony at the Quantum Computing Complex on the Songdo International Campus, coinciding with the university’s 140th anniversary and the UNESCO International Year of Quantum Science and Technology.

The Songdo International Campus is a pivotal hub within the National Advanced Strategic Industrial Complex, particularly in the biotech sector. Yonsei is collaborating with the Incheon Metropolitan City to establish the world’s first high-tech industrial cluster that merges quantum and biological technologies. In July 2024, Yonsei and IBM signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to cooperate on a Bio-Quantum Initiative, aiming to advance Korea’s quantum ecosystem.

Yonsei has also set up a Quantum Computing Project Team, comprising the Quantum Ecosystem Operation Center, the Quantum Computing Technology Support Center, and the Quantum Computing Center. This team is dedicated to promoting quantum research and ecosystem development. Their plan is to enhance Yonsei’s research facilities to attract global partners, leveraging IBM’s resources for developing quantum algorithms and technical projects. Furthermore, the team seeks to foster quantum talent through educational initiatives, including workshops, seminars, and conferences designed to facilitate knowledge exchange and contribute to the advancement of quantum technology.

Jaeho Cheong, head of Yonsei’s Quantum Computing Project Team, stated, “With the quantum computing sector projected to grow by over $5.5 billion from 2023 to 2030, our aim is to promote ‘quantum literacy’ across industries and provide a foundation for mutually beneficial cooperation by building an ecosystem for the joint utilization of Korea’s first quantum computer. We invite various entities, including government agencies, municipalities, research institutes, universities, companies, and hospitals preparing to embrace quantum computing, and any organizations interested in research collaboration, to reach out to us at any time.”

About Yonsei University

Founded in 1885, Yonsei University is one of South Korea’s most prestigious private universities, known for its excellence in education and research. Situated in the heart of Seoul, the university combines modern facilities with a rich tradition, attracting outstanding students and faculty from around the globe. Yonsei excels across diverse academic disciplines and is dedicated to building a strong international academic network. With a focus on innovative research, Yonsei contributes to societal development and offers a variety of programs to nurture global leaders. Guided by the principles of "Truth, Freedom, and Service," Yonsei is a prominent global institution in higher education.

About IBM

IBM is a leading provider of global hybrid cloud services, AI, and consulting expertise, assisting clients in over 175 countries. IBM helps organizations capitalize on data insights, streamline business operations, reduce costs, and gain a competitive edge. With more than 4,000 government and corporate clients in critical infrastructure sectors such as financial services, telecommunications, and healthcare, IBM’s hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift enable rapid and secure digital transformations. IBM’s groundbreaking innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions, and consulting provide clients with flexible, open options. All of these efforts are supported by IBM’s long-standing commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity, and service.

For more information, visit Yonsei University and IBM.

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