KT announced on May 19 that it will apply quantum-resistant encryption (PQC) to key defense systems as part of the "2026 Quantum-Resistant Encryption Pilot Transition Support Project" organized by the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Korea Internet & Security Agency (KISA).
The company is conducting a PQC demonstration project in collaboration with the Ministry of National Defense and the Army Information and Communications School, forming a consortium with Daeyoung S-Tech and ESI.
In this project, KT will implement quantum-resistant encryption modules across critical infrastructure segments, including the smart unit platform (edge) to user PCs, CCTV to network video recorders (NVR), drones to ground control systems (GCS), and 5G routers to core networks. The performance and applicability of these systems will be validated in real battlefield environments. The smart unit platform is a crucial area for PQC transition, as it integrates equipment from different manufacturers and multi-layered network structures. KT plans to apply and validate quantum-resistant encryption throughout the entire lifecycle of defense data from end to end.
Based on the verification results and operational experience gained from this project, KT aims to expand the application of quantum-resistant encryption beyond defense to public and private sectors. The company will also continue to develop next-generation security service models that meet global security standards.
Jeon Myung-jun, Executive Vice President of KT's Enterprise Services Division, stated, "By carrying out pilot projects in the defense sector, we will enhance the reliability of South Korea's communication and security technologies and lead the establishment of a secure AX environment."
Meanwhile, according to global market research firm IQT, the global quantum technology market is expected to grow to 135.8885 trillion won by 2030, with quantum cryptography projected to achieve an average annual growth rate of 59%.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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