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Honored with the 2026 Commendation for Quantum Science and Technology Merit in recognition of breakthroughs in quantum materials and global research collaborations
Recognized for advancing the national quantum ecosystem and fostering quantum industry foundations

Professor Seok-Kyun Son of the Department of Physics has received the 2026 Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Science and ICT Commendation for Quantum Science and Technology Merit. The award was presented during the opening ceremony of Quantum Korea 2026, held in early July at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) Art Hall in Seoul. Conferred upon researchers who have driven groundbreaking advancements in South Korea's quantum science and bolstered the nation's quantum industrial ecosystem, the commendation marks nationwide recognition of Professor Son’s pioneering research milestones and academic leadership.

Hosted by the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), Quantum Korea 2026 is the nation’s premier flagship convention dedicated to quantum technologies. Convening under this year's theme, "Quantum in Action: Grand Challenges for Innovation," the event brought together leading experts across industry, academia, and national research institutes from Korea and abroad. Participants examined the latest research breakthroughs and emerging market trends across quantum computing, quantum communications, and quantum sensing, while forging multilateral strategies for global collaboration. The gathering underscored how quantum technology has rapidly evolved from theoretical potential into a pivotal pillar of real-world industry and national strategic competitiveness.

Advancing Foundational Research in Quantum Materials and Next-Generation Electronic Devices

Professor Son has dedicated his research to quantum materials and next-generation electronic devices, playing a pivotal role in expanding the frontiers of quantum science and technology. By characterizing the fundamental properties of novel quantum states and exploring their feasibility for next-generation hardware implementations, his work has broadened the academic horizons and elevated the research competitiveness of South Korea’s quantum ecosystem. His scholarship is particularly recognized for bridging rigorous basic science with actionable pathways toward technological application and industrial scalability.

Beyond individual recognition, this honor stands as a testament to the advanced basic science capabilities that Kyung Hee University has cultivated over the years. Today, leading nations are designating quantum technology as a core pillar of national strategic capabilities alongside semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), and biotechnology. Quantum computing is garnering global attention for its potential to solve computationally intractable problems beyond classical limits, while quantum communications are poised to build ultra-secure, tamper-proof next-generation network infrastructures. Simultaneously, quantum sensing is opening transformative frontiers in precision metrology, medical diagnostics, national defense, and environmental monitoring. At this nexus of profound scientific value and transformative industrial impact, the role of quantum researchers has never been more critical.

Driving Quantum Advancement Through Hands-On Expertise and Global Collaborative Networks

In this dynamic landscape, Professor Son has spearheaded tangible advances in quantum science and technology by harnessing his deep bench of experimental expertise and robust domestic and international research networks. By anchoring his work in fundamental physics, he has laid the groundwork for future disruptive technologies while expanding the capacity and resilience of the national research ecosystem. Kyung Hee University continues to actively bolster these initiatives, cultivating a virtuous cycle where high-impact research elevates the university’s global standing and fuels national scientific progress.

“This honor is especially meaningful because it reflects the shared dedication and tireless collaboration of our entire laboratory team alongside our partners in Korea and abroad," remarked Professor Son. "Moving forward, I will remain committed to advancing pioneering quantum research grounded in basic science, while broadening our international joint ventures and industry-academia partnerships to strengthen South Korea’s quantum technological sovereignty and industrial competitiveness.”