SEOUL, March 20 (AJP) - Kookmin University Professor Yoo Il-sun has been selected to participate in Horizon Europe, the European Union’s premier research and innovation program. This partnership marks a significant milestone for South Korean academia, positioning the university at the forefront of a global effort to integrate quantum technology with digital security.
The three-year project, known as the Quantum Computing European Union–South Korea Working Team (QuoUSKWe), operates with a total budget of approximately 2.7 million euros. Led by the Polytechnic University of Milan (Politecnico di Milano), the multinational consortium includes Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute and Finland’s IQM Quantum Computers.
Kookmin University (KMU) is tasked with designing and verifying AI-based digital security systems that combine quantum computing with high-performance computing. The research will focus on securing quantum-safe technologies essential for 6G communication environments and the broader hyper-connected digital ecosystem.
"This selection is meaningful because it recognizes our university's research competitiveness and innovation in quantum technology and digital security on an international level," Professor Yoo Il-sun said. "Based on cooperation with major European research institutes, we will take the lead in securing technological sovereignty and leading international standards in future strategic technology fields."
Professor Yoo currently serves as the director of the Global ICT Convergence Security Innovation Research Center. He also holds leadership roles in international standard-setting bodies, including the IEEE 6G-IoT Quantum Security Standardization Group and the IFIP E-Business Information Systems Group.
The university’s selection follows the launch of the KMU VISION 2035: EDGE initiative, which identifies quantum technology and artificial intelligence as core growth pillars. KMU established the first "Quantum Campus" in Korea on July 10, 2025, to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial application.
Through this collaboration, the Global ICT Convergence Security Innovation Research Center expects to solidify its position as a global hub for quantum and AI-integrated security. The project officially commenced on March 20, 2026, and will continue to strengthen research ties between South Korea and European scientific institutions.
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