SK Telecom (NYSE: SKM) today announced that it has entered into a strategic partnership with IonQ, a U.S. quantum computing company, to prepare for the upcoming artificial intelligence (AI)·quantum era and to collaborate on the future development of the AI and quantum industry.

A technology that combines AI with quantum computers, which can process more data more quickly than traditional computers, is expected to yield optimized AI solutions faster and with lower power consumption compared to conventional methods.

SK Telecom has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IonQ, recognized as a leader in quantum computing based on its trapped ion technology — known for its high stability and precision — establishing a solid foundation for AI·quantum development. This technology traps ions (charged atoms) using an electric field and controls them with lasers.

Under this MoU, SK Telecom plans to integrate IonQ’s quantum computing technology with its own AI capabilities, including its Personal AI Agent (PAA) services such as A. (A-DoT) and Aster (A*), AI data centers (AIDC), GPU-as-a-Service (GPUaaS), and Edge AI. Additionally, SK Telecom aims to combine cryptography technologies, including quantum key distribution (QKD) and post-quantum cryptography (PQC), with IonQ’s technology to strengthen its AI business competitiveness.

To facilitate collaboration with IonQ, SK Telecom and SK Square will exchange their shares in ID Quantique (IDQ), a global quantum cryptography company, for shares in IonQ. This strategic move allows SK Telecom to establish a closer business relationship with IonQ.

Despite the share exchange, SK Telecom will continue its cooperation with IDQ in the quantum cryptography communication sector and plans to further strengthen its leadership in the quantum cryptography market in Korea through continuous joint technology and product development.

“Quantum technology is not an option but a necessity for the advancement of AI,” said Ryu Young-sang, CEO of SK Telecom. “SK Telecom will continue to make proactive investments and foster strategic collaborations to establish itself as a leader in the AI field.”