Idemia Secure Transactions (IST), a payments, connectivity and cybersecurity company, said on Oct. 26 it will support a 2026 pilot transition project on quantum-resistant cryptography (PQC) in which KT is participating.

In the project involving KT, Idemia will implement U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)-standardised quantum-resistant cryptography algorithms and Korean quantum-resistant cryptography algorithms on a smart card platform applying quantum-resistant SIMs.

Idemia will apply new cryptographic technology to security chips to prepare for threats that existing encryption could be broken as quantum computers advance and to help protect defence communications systems.

An expanded pilot project that KT will carry out for the Ministry of National Defense and the Army Information and Communications School focuses on applying and validating quantum-resistant cryptography across key defence infrastructure. Targets include the Smart Unit platform, user PCs, CCTV and video storage systems, drones and ground control systems, and 5G network environments.

Fabien Jotard (파비앙 조타르), senior vice president of Idemia's connectivity services division, said, "Idemia views the transition to quantum-resistant security as a strategic task that must be pursued to secure long-term trust in digital environments." He said cooperation with KT shows that linking the strategy to practical technology deployment can enable organisations to advance systems and services while preparing for future security threats.