In April 2021, the Korean government announced the National Strategic Plan for Quantum Science and Technology, setting the goal of becoming a leading quantum country by 2030. The plan, released by the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), built on four pillars: investment in high-risk fundamental research, workforce development, building critical infrastructure including fabrication facilities and testbeds, and nurturing industry applications.
According to Quantum in Korea, government investment in quantum science and technology had been small prior to 2018. Following the plan’s announcement, the budget increased more than sixfold in four years, roughly doubling after the strategic plan was published. Annual quantum R&D funding reached approximately KRW 94 billion (USD 75 million) by 2023. The plan envisioned follow-up investment plans and lawmaking activities to support the strategy, both of which materialized in 2023.