South Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT said on Thursday it will hold a call to designate quantum clusters.

The call is a follow-up to the "First Comprehensive Plan to Foster Quantum Science and Technology and the Quantum Industry" and the "First Quantum Cluster Master Plan" announced in January. The government selected quantum as one of 12 national missions in 8 key areas under the K-Moonshot Project and is pursuing world-class competitiveness.

A quantum cluster aims to organically link key regional companies, universities and research institutes to promote the application and spread of quantum technologies at industrial sites. The call focuses on designing a structure that connects quantum technologies with industrial demand.

Metropolitan and provincial governors seeking quantum cluster designation must submit relevant documents, including an application, a metropolitan or provincial development plan and supporting materials, by May 18.

Local governments applying must select 1 of quantum computing, quantum communications and quantum sensing as a mandatory main field that has synergy with the region's specialized industries. They can also propose up to 2 linked fields, including quantum materials, components and equipment and algorithms.

They can also propose, at their discretion, a structure that includes a technology base, or hub, where technology development capabilities are concentrated, and a demand base, or spoke, that handles actual industrial demand and demonstration. A super-regional model linking 2 or more metropolitan-level local governments can also apply.

The government will comprehensively assess not only the current level of infrastructure but also future growth potential, focusing on the metropolitan and provincial development plans. It will evaluate the status of quantum technology research capabilities and infrastructure and plans to expand them, linkage with key regional industries, quantum transition (QX) strategy, and the local government's implementation system and support capabilities. To ensure local governments' commitment and sustainability, matching local funds of at least 30 percent of national funding is a mandatory requirement.

The call guide can be found on the ministry's website. The ministry will hold a briefing session on April 21 to provide guidance on designation requirements and procedures and guidelines for drafting development plans.

MSIT First Vice Minister Hyuk-chae Koo (구혁채) said, "Quantum technology is a key strategic technology that will determine industrial competitiveness and national security in the post-AI era." He added, "Quantum clusters will become innovation hubs where regions design their own growth strategies based on their industrial strengths and technology capabilities, with the government supporting them."