‘Quantum Computing’ OQT Secures 3 Billion KRW Seed Investment from Kakao Ventures and Bluepoint

Quantum computing startup OQT announced on the 13th that it has secured a seed investment of 3 billion KRW from Kakao Ventures and Bluepoint.

Kim Dong-gyu, CEO of OQT

OQT researches and develops high-performance Quantum Processing Units (QPU) necessary for quantum computing. Known as the brain of quantum computing, the QPU utilizes qubits that simultaneously hold states 0 and 1 to perform quantum parallel calculations, enabling fast processing of difficult and complex computations. The company plans to provide integrated solutions required for quantum computing through the development of QPUs using neutral atoms.

Once the quantum computers under development are commercialized, they are expected to solve various problems that are difficult to address with conventional digital computing. In particular, with the dramatic improvement in artificial intelligence (AI) performance, it is anticipated to lead innovation in deep-tech industries that require large-scale computation and simulation, such as new drug development, advanced material design, and optimization problems. Furthermore, it has a high potential to become a next-generation innovative technology that underpins national industry and economy.

OQT plans to enhance the maturity of quantum computing commercialization by advancing QPU control technology and to actively create a virtuous ecosystem for the quantum industry where domestic quantum experts can thrive. Marking this seed investment as a turning point, the company will expand research infrastructure necessary for technology advancement and focus on core technology research and development.

Dongkyu Kim, CEO of OQT, earned a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States, specializing in atom and optics-based quantum technology research. He later participated as a founding member of the full-stack quantum computing startup QuEra, contributing to the development of a 256-qubit neutral atom quantum computer. Currently, he serves as a professor in the Department of Physics at KAIST, concurrently conducting research and education in quantum computing.

Sooim Choi, Senior Investment Manager at Bluepoint, said, "We expect the innovative company OQT, which can present academic expertise and a blueprint for the commercialization of quantum computing, to advance the domestic quantum computing ecosystem to the next level. We are pleased to join them on their journey to becoming a global deep-tech company." Kakao Ventures CEO Kijun Kim stated, "Although they research an invisible world, I firmly believe that the changes OQT will create will be felt by everyone. We sincerely support OQT’s challenge and will walk together with them on the path of innovation."

CEO Dongkyu Kim of OQT said, "Based on this investment, we will strengthen research infrastructure and intensively nurture core research and development capabilities to enhance the maturity of quantum computer commercialization. We will grow into a company that leads the quantum computing industry."