"Pasqal's presence in Korea will grow significantly within a few years. We plan to introduce a quantum computer at the Pasqal Seoul research and development center."
Wahid Boukari, CEO of Pasqal, a French quantum computing company, made these remarks about the company's partnership with Korea in an interview with the Seoul Economic Daily at Pasqal's headquarters in Massy-Palaiseau, France, on June 9 (local time).
Pasqal and the Seoul Metropolitan Government signed a memorandum of understanding in October last year to establish a quantum computer R&D center, involving a total investment of $52.84 million (approximately 75.2 billion won) and 51 new hires. "This will be a critical turning point for Seoul's development as a global quantum hub," Boukari said, adding that "Pasqal's rich engineering experience can make a significant contribution to Korea's quantum ecosystem." He noted that France possesses outstanding scientific talent. "Pasqal's scientific talent is unmatched," he said. "Given France's deep scientific tradition and exceptional workforce, it is only natural that a quantum computing company like Pasqal is based in France."
Partnerships with Korean companies including LG Electronics are also strengthening. Pasqal is currently collaborating with them in the materials sector, including the discovery of new materials. "Because matter at the atomic level follows the laws of quantum mechanics, accurate simulation with quantum computers is far more effective than with conventional computers," Boukari said. BMW Group of Germany has also partnered with Pasqal for materials research.
Collaborations with energy and space companies are also drawing attention. Électricité de France (EDF), the state-owned utility, uses Pasqal's quantum computing technology for nuclear power plant simulation, solar material degradation prediction, and renewable energy generation forecasting. Thales, the French space and defense company, partnered with Pasqal to leverage neutral-atom-based quantum architecture to solve problems such as satellite operations planning that are difficult even for supercomputers.
Quantum technology is also generating synergies with unexpected industries such as finance. "We are conducting joint research with Crédit Agricole, a major French bank, on portfolio and risk optimization," Boukari said. "Credit risk optimization — early detection of changes in customer credit profiles — is a prime example of what quantum computers solve well."
Boukari is focused on transforming Pasqal into a global company. The company plans to list on the Nasdaq in the United States within this year. "Given the very high interest and demand for quantum computing in the IPO market right now, a Nasdaq listing will be an opportunity to raise Pasqal's profile among international investors and clients," Boukari said. "After the U.S. listing, we also plan to pursue a secondary listing on Euronext."
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