Korea Quantum Computing (KQC), a company that operates quantum computing research and development, quantum security and AI infrastructure, said on June 4 it completed a proof of concept with LS Group IT services firm LS ITC to validate post-quantum cryptography (PQC)-based security technology against hacking using agentic AI and risks from quantum computers.

KQC validated the practical applicability of quantum security technology across authentication, access and overall operations management.

KQC first conducted a technology validation to strengthen the LS Group user login security framework by applying PQC-based FIDO authentication keys. It confirmed that this can improve security compared with existing authentication methods while also ensuring a user authentication system in a future quantum computing environment.

For server-to-server communications, it applied an architecture using a central secret management device and validated a framework that controls authentication and connections between servers. It reviewed the technical basis for maintaining a consistent level of security even in distributed industrial system environments.

In response to the trend toward shorter SSL/TLS certificate validity periods, it also validated a framework that automates the entire process of certificate issuance and renewal.

KQC and LS ITC said the PoC results confirmed meaningful achievements in terms of applicability and efficiency in real operating environments, and LS ITC plans to pursue a review of full-scale technical application and adoption for major systems.

An LS ITC official said, "This PoC is an important milestone that validated an industrial security framework in preparation for the quantum computing era and confirmed technical applicability." The official said LS ITC will closely review whether to apply it to actual systems and work to secure security competitiveness for core infrastructure.

Jun-young Kim (김준영), CEO of Korea Quantum Computing (KQC), said, "This technology validation (PoC) successfully demonstrated the practical applicability of PQC-based security technology even in industrial environments." He said KQC will continue to support technology validation and review for a shift to quantum security across various industrial areas.