[Market Pulse] In the Quantum Era, Talent Strategy Creates Opportunity

As the 'International Year of Quantum Science and Technology' designated by the United Nations is coming to an end, the world is paying more attention to quantum technology than ever before.

It is expected that by the end of next year, quantum computers will achieve 'quantum advantage,' outperforming conventional computing methods in problem-solving, and by 2029, the first large-scale fault-tolerant quantum computer will be built. At that point, quantum computers will not only be used in various fields such as materials science, drug discovery, financial modeling, and climate prediction, but will also play a decisive role in solving society's greatest challenges.

The problem is that there is a severe shortage of talent capable of harnessing the rapid advancement of this technology. According to a government survey, Korea ranks among the top 10 countries in terms of core research personnel in the field of quantum computing. However, IBM's recently published 'Quantum Readiness Report' found that 64% of surveyed organizations in Korea cited 'lack of technical capability' as a barrier to the adoption of quantum technology.

Currently, there is a significant shortage of personnel in Korea who are able to teach quantum technology. To nurture quantum technology experts, a high level of expertise that deeply integrates physics, mathematics, and computer science is required. It also takes considerable time for these individuals to develop to the point where they can define and solve problems in the field. Therefore, it is urgent to establish a systematic and long-term strategy tailored to the type of talent to be developed.

Another issue is that, since quantum computing is still in the early stages of commercialization and does not immediately translate into revenue, many companies are delaying their investments. As a result, companies are not creating enough jobs for quantum talent, and this lack of job opportunities can create a vicious cycle that discourages researchers from entering the field. To break this cycle, both initial 'priming' investments from the government and strategic decisions from companies are needed.

Developing quantum talent is not about pouring in large sums of money at once, but rather about consistent and sustained investment. Using quantum computers for business or scientific research is fundamentally not so different from companies using conventional or high-performance computers for their work. Of course, a certain level of specialized training is necessary, but this is not the domain of a select few elites; with systematic education and experience, it can be expanded across the entire industry. Ultimately, the key is not to be obsessed with short-term results but to invest steadily in education over time.

Fortunately, the Korean government is elevating quantum technology to a national strategic agenda and expanding budgets and policies. Through the recently announced 'First Comprehensive Quantum Plan,' the government has set a goal of nurturing 100 core personnel annually and has presented a future direction. However, this must not end as a short-term project; a long-term roadmap of at least 10 years is essential, connecting education, research, and industry into a single ecosystem. The government should systematically expand quantum education programs at universities and research institutes and institutionalize opportunities for industry-linked practicums, internships, and joint research.

The role of industry is also essential. Quantum computing technology is directly connected to Korea's key industries, such as semiconductors, secondary batteries, pharmaceuticals, chemistry, finance, and logistics. Companies should recognize quantum computing technology as a core pillar of their future business portfolios and actively pursue industry-academia cooperation and long-term talent development.

Global leaders like IBM are already fully committed to talent development. IBM is working with Yonsei University, Seoul National University, the University of Chicago, the University of Tokyo, Keio University, and others to nurture 40,000 quantum technology professionals by 2033. IBM is also collaborating with Korean companies, academia, and government agencies to build the quantum ecosystem, including the establishment of Korea's first 'IBM Quantum System One' at Yonsei University and the launch of the 'Bio-Quantum Initiative.'

Programs are also underway in partnership with the Ministry of Science and ICT and Sungkyunkwan University for leadership development among PhD-level researchers, as well as startup incubation programs in collaboration with the Ministry of SMEs and Startups.

True competitiveness in the quantum era comes not only from 'technology' itself but from the 'people' who understand and utilize that technology. Such talent cannot be developed overnight. If Korea is to become a leading player, not a bystander, in the coming quantum revolution, now is the golden time for bold investment by both the government and industry.

Baek Hanhee, Director of IBM Quantum Algorithm Center