IQM Launches First Quantum Computer in Asia-Pacific, Plans Seoul Office
IQM Quantum Computers, a global leader in superconducting quantum computing, has taken a significant step in the Asia-Pacific region by announcing the opening of a new office in Seoul, South Korea, in June 2025. This expansion follows the successful installation of IQM's first regional quantum system, the 5-qubit superconducting quantum computer "IQM Spark," at Chungbuk National University (CBNU) in Korea. The rapid deployment of IQM Spark within just four months of the initial contract signing underscores IQM's technical prowess and project execution capabilities. To enhance its presence in the Korean market, IQM has appointed Youngsim Kim as the General Manager for Korea. Kim brings over a decade of experience across various industries, with notable achievements in sales, business transformation, change management, and human resources. IQM's co-CEO, Mikko Välimäki, expressed enthusiasm about Kim's appointment, stating that her deep industry knowledge and strong local market understanding will be crucial for the company's growth and strategic implementation in Korea. Kim, in turn, is excited to join IQM and looks forward to fostering new business opportunities and providing robust customer support. The collaboration with CBNU is seen as a pivotal move that not only benefits the university but also solidifies IQM's position in the global quantum computing market. Cho Young-chul, the director of CBNU's Industry-Academic Cooperation Foundation, emphasized the potential of this partnership to boost the region's future industry competitiveness through practical R&D activities and the dissemination of research outcomes. CBNU plans to integrate quantum computing into multiple fields, aiming to nurture a high-caliber talent pool and support the development of a leading quantum industry in the province of Chungcheongbuk-do. Välimäki highlighted that the deployment of IQM Spark and the record-breaking quick turnaround time further establish IQM as a global leader in quantum computing. The company is committed to making quantum computers more accessible and user-friendly, both for researchers and students worldwide. This aligns with IQM's broader mission to transition quantum technology from theoretical research to practical applications, which is essential for accelerating the adoption of quantum computing. IQM Quantum Computers, founded in Finland, currently has over 300 employees and operates offices in multiple countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Poland, Spain, Singapore, and the United States. The company specializes in designing and manufacturing full-stack superconducting quantum computers, along with cloud-based access platforms. Its clients include top-tier high-performance computing (HPC) centers, research laboratories, universities, and enterprises, all benefiting from IQM's comprehensive software and hardware solutions. The new Seoul office will serve to strengthen IQM's relationships with local research and academic communities, as well as businesses, and will provide a platform for expanding the company's services and support in the region. Välimäki stated, "By establishing this new office and completing the deployment of IQM Spark, we aim to contribute significantly to the development of Korea's quantum ecosystem and support the nation's quantum strategy." Industry insiders view IQM's expansion into Korea as a pivotal moment for the Asian quantum computing market. They believe that IQM's presence will enhance local R&D capabilities and competitiveness, promote talent mobility and collaboration, and expedite the commercialization of quantum computing technology. With several companies ramping up their quantum computing efforts, the competition is expected to intensify. However, IQM's established technical expertise and strategic foresight position it well to maintain its leadership in this rapidly evolving field. The addition of the Seoul office and the successful installation of IQM Spark at CBNU demonstrate IQM's commitment to driving quantum technology advancement. These initiatives will likely accelerate the pace of quantum technological progress in Korea and the broader Asia-Pacific region, offering unprecedented opportunities for research and innovation. By fostering a more open and practical quantum computing environment, IQM aims to make advanced quantum tools accessible to a wider range of users, thereby supporting the global quantum computing community. In summary, IQM's strategic expansion in Korea exemplifies its dedication to advancing quantum technology and building robust ecosystems. The company's innovative approach and strong execution have been recognized and welcomed by both local and international stakeholders. As quantum computing increasingly moves from academia to industry, IQM's presence in Seoul is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of this technology in Asia.
