U.S. highlights quantum technology cooperation with South Korea

The U.S. State Department highlighted quantum technology cooperation with South Korea and other partners after a U.S. delegation attended the sixth Quantum Development Group meeting in South Korea, according to The Korea Times.

The cooperation aims to support secure, responsible development and commercialization of quantum technologies. The department said those technologies could have implications for communications security, medicine, economic growth and national security.

Adam Cassady, the U.S. ambassador-at-large for cyberspace and digital policy, and Brad Blakestad, a White House Office of Science and Technology Policy official, led the delegation, The Korea Times reported.

The State Department's Bureau of Economic Affairs described the visit in a post on X. The delegation worked with partners on quantum research, supply chains and international standards, according to the report.

The U.S.-led Quantum Development Group began in July 2024. Its 13 member countries include South Korea, the United States, Japan and Britain.

The consultative body coordinates work on research security, investment, supply chains and international standards. The department emphasized the importance of shaping the rules for quantum technologies as their development advances.

The department framed the international cooperation as part of an effort to ensure quantum advances strengthen U.S. security, support the economy and create high-paying jobs at home.