I would like to begin by offering my warmest congratulations on the successful opening of ‘POSTECH Signature Conference 2023’.
It is deeply meaningful to host an international conference on quantum technology in Pohang.
This event creates a wonderful opportunity to bring together quantum experts and
researchers from both domestic and international arenas.
I would like to extend my gratitude to Dr. Seong-keun Kim, President of Postech,
and to all involved in organizing this conference. I also extend a heartfelt welcome and thanks to the experts in attendance.
This conference is a significant occasion where renowned experts from both
domestic and international regions gather to discuss and debate the future of quantum technology.
Quantum technology is considered the ultimate core technology that will bring
about innovation in all future industries, including but not limited to: bio, manufacturing, and semiconductor enterprises.
That is why many countries around the world including the United States, Europe,
China, and Japan, are accelerating the development of quantum technology with their own policies.
Korea has also entered into the competition for quantum technology hegemony by
establishing a quantum technology support policy with an aim of investing more than
3 trillion won or 2.2 billion dollars and cultivating 2,500 quantum professionals through public and private partnership by 2035.
Pohang has transformed into a leading city in science and technology through
preemptive investment and policy promotion. This is to nurture future new industries
like new drug development and secondary battery industries after successfully leading the heavy industries in Korea.
Pohang supports quantum technology research through institutions like POSTECH
and the Max Planck POSTECH/KOREA Initiative. Pohang also backs up quantum research
with the third globally constructed 4th generation synchrotron radiation accelerator,
following the construction of facilities in the U.S. and Japan.
Pohang City is actively supporting world-class quantum technology research such
as attosecond and topological quantum aggregation research, and will continue its efforts to lead the next generation quantum technology.
The research achievements and advancements in quantum technology are expected to
be utilized in various future new industries, and will undoubtedly create synergistic effects.
I wholeheartedly support the efforts of everyone working on the research and development
of next-generation quantum technology, which will open new possibilities and opportunities for humanity.
Finally, I hope that all participants in this conference will enjoy a wonderful time here in Pohang.
Thank you.
Kang-deok Lee
Pohang City Mayor