The IQM quantum computer purchased by Chungbuk National University (CBNU) in South Korea has come online.

According to the Finnish quantum computing company, the five-qubit IQM Spark system was delivered and installed at CBNU in four months.

In addition to bringing the system online, IQM has also announced plans to open a new office in South Korea later this year, expanding the company’s presence in Asia Pacific. In a statement, IQM said opening the office in Seoul reinforces its dedication to collaborating with institutions to advance quantum technology and support South Korea’s national quantum strategy.

IQM’s Spark quantum machines have been specifically tailored for universities and research labs, offering high single-qubit and two-qubit gate fidelity, which the company says allows for reliable and accurate quantum applications.

The quantum computer was the first acquired by the university and the second system deployed by IQM in Asia Pacific. It is the first commercial quantum computer to be installed through the Korean government’s official procurement process.

"We hope that it will serve as a bridgehead to strengthen the competitiveness of future industries by carrying out practical R&D and spreading academic results using quantum computers," said Cho Young-chul, head of Chungbuk National University’s Industry-Academic Cooperation Foundation. "We will integrate quantum computing with various fields to support the development of talented people and the leading development of the quantum industry in Chungbuk.”

Mikko Välimäki, co-CEO of IQM, added: “This latest deployment and record lead time further cements our role as a global leader in accelerating the adoption of quantum computing by making quantum computers more open, accessible, and practical for researchers and university students worldwide.”