SK Telecom Unveils Next-Generation Quantum Cryptography Technology for the AI and 6G Era at Quantum Korea

Expanding Collaboration with Defense, Public, and Global Industry Partners

SK Telecom unveiled next-generation quantum cryptography technology and solutions under the theme of "Next-Generation Quantum Cryptography Security for the AI and 6G Era" at 'Quantum Korea 2026,' held from the 2nd at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). Provided by SK Telecom. Photo by SK Telecom, showing the SK Telecom exhibition booth.

On July 2, SK Telecom announced that it will unveil its quantum cryptography technology and solutions under the theme of "Next-Generation Quantum Cryptography Security for the AI and 6G Era" at "Quantum Korea 2026," which will be held at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) from today through July 4.

Quantum Korea is the largest global quantum industry exhibition in Korea, hosted by the Ministry of Science and ICT, and has been held annually since 2023. It serves as a venue to showcase the latest technologies and solutions across the quantum sector.

With the rapid advancement of AI and quantum computer performance, the threat of breaking existing cryptographic systems is increasing. As a result, quantum cryptography is receiving attention as a core technology to address these risks. In particular, the role of quantum cryptography is becoming increasingly important to ensure the security of hyper-connected and hyper-intelligent 6G services.

At this exhibition, SK Telecom will introduce next-generation technologies that overcome the limitations of quantum cryptography, including: ▲ Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) based on Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) ▲ Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG) technology based on PIC ▲ Wireless and Satellite QKD technology.

SK Telecom has implemented a high-performance QRNG capable of 10Gbps on an ultra-compact chip measuring 10×10mm² and is currently developing an integrated QKD chip that includes the transmitter, receiver, and QRNG optical system. Quantum cryptography technology based on PIC is expected to accelerate mainstream adoption by enabling miniaturization, cost reduction, and mass production.

In the 6G era, securing the ultra-spatial and three-dimensional communications requires expanding quantum cryptography applications to wireless segments. SK Telecom is preparing core technologies necessary to ensure the stability and safety of wireless QKD, and is developing QKD applicable to 30km long-distance wireless communication. With ongoing development, this technology is also expected to be mountable on satellites in the future.

As quantum security solutions, SK Telecom is presenting ▲ Q-HSM (Quantum Hardware Security Module) and ▲ Q-SSE (Quantum Security Service Edge).

Q-HSM is a next-generation hybrid quantum cryptography single chip that combines QRNG, post-quantum cryptography (PQC), modern cryptographic technology, and PUF (physical unclonable function) to counter hacking threats from quantum computers. Quantum cryptography is applied to edge devices such as drones, AI CCTVs, and robots on 6G networks.

Q-SSE is a data security solution that supports zero trust access control and secure use of LLM services based on QRNG and PQC.

Through its participation in this exhibition, SK Telecom plans to identify the growing demand and requirements for quantum cryptography in the defense and public sectors, and, based on this, develop new technologies to expand the adoption of quantum security solutions in Korea. In addition, SK Telecom aims to contribute to expanding the domestic technology base by strengthening cooperation based on achievements made together with the Ministry of Science and ICT, Institute for Information & Communications Technology Planning & Evaluation (IITP), Defense Acquisition Program Administration, and Agency for Defense Development.

At the opening ceremony of Quantum Korea on this day, Ryu Takki, Head of Network Technology at SK Telecom, will receive a commendation for contributions to the advancement of quantum science and technology (awarded by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Science and ICT). Ryu was recognized for his efforts to broaden the reach of quantum technology through major roles in organizations such as serving as the chairperson of the Future Quantum Convergence Forum, for leading the development of technologies that combine quantum cryptography and modern security, and for promoting global exchanges in quantum technology.

Ryu stated, "Through our participation in Quantum Korea 2026, we will demonstrate how SK Telecom's next-generation quantum cryptography technology can address the security needs of the AI and 6G era," adding, "We will continue to lead the development and commercialization of quantum technologies and maintain our role as a central pillar of the global quantum industry ecosystem."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.