IonQ partners with South Korea's KISTI to develop quantum-HPC hybrid systems

IonQ Inc. (NYSE: IONQ) announced a memorandum of understanding with the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information to collaborate on quantum-high performance computing hybrid technologies in South Korea.

The partnership, announced at NVIDIA GTC, focuses on integrating IonQ's quantum hardware with KISTI's HPC infrastructure using NVIDIA NVQLink, an architecture that connects quantum computers to GPU-based supercomputers.

"By working with KISTI, we are seeking to create a pathway for South Korea to be a global leader in hybrid quantum-classical research," said Niccolo de Masi, chairman and CEO of IonQ.

Jaegyoon Hahm, director of the Center for Quantum Computing Service at KISTI, said the collaboration represents "a critical step in building a national quantum-HPC infrastructure that can solve the most complex scientific challenges."

The MOU outlines several initiatives including joint research on quantum-HPC hybrid technologies, simulation of quantum algorithms, development of AI models for quantum technologies, and talent development through research visits and training programs. The partnership will also explore using quantum computers to enhance HPC and machine learning applications in logistics, chemistry, material science, and large language model fine-tuning.

IonQ has established multiple partnerships in South Korea, including collaborations with SK Telecom, Hyundai Motor Company, Intellian Technologies, Seoul National University, and Sungkyunkwan University.

The quantum computing company reported achieving 99.99% two-qubit gate fidelity in 2025, which it describes as a world record in quantum computing performance. IonQ operates in multiple countries and provides quantum computing services through major cloud providers.

You May Also Be Interested In

• RT Specialty names Brendan Mulshine as CEO in planned leadership change
• Consolidated Water gets 25-year Grand Cayman water license
• ConectivGlobal launches ConeqtX and MyLife Wellness platforms