KISTI Transfers Hybrid Quantum Cryptography Technology to Trento Systems
Seoul, November 6, 2025 — The Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI) announced today the transfer of its proprietary hybrid quantum cryptography communication technology to Trento Systems, a leading company specializing in next-generation network and security solutions. The agreement formalizing this technology transfer was signed on November 6, marking a significant step toward commercializing advanced cybersecurity technologies for the emerging quantum computing era.
A Breakthrough in Next-Generation Security Technology
The technology transferred to Trento Systems centers on a hybrid security framework that integrates Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC), and conventional encryption methods. This innovative approach combines physical quantum cryptography techniques with quantum-resistant algorithms to build secure communications systems that are resilient against the evolving threats posed by quantum computing advancements.
KISTI’s development includes key components such as a quantum key distribution network controller and resource management methods, as well as terminal devices that support hybrid quantum-safe encryption. Notably, several domestic patents covering these technologies have been finalized.
One of the distinctive features of this technology is the quantum key expansion system, which optimally utilizes limited quantum key resources to generate derivative keys. This allows multiple quantum cryptography communication services requiring varying security levels to be supported stably and smoothly, even with scarce quantum key assets.
Supporting Diverse, High-Demand Applications
In addition to single-service support, the framework facilitates efficient simultaneous operation of multiple services with different security requirements—such as 5G network slicing and autonomous vehicle networking. This is made possible through advanced QKD network control and resource optimization methods enabling robust management of quantum keys across diverse applications.
Dr. Lee Won-hyuk, Head of KISTI’s Quantum Communication Research Center, emphasized the forward-looking nature of the technology: “Quantum cryptography communication is an essential next-generation security technology preparing us for the quantum computing age, poised to transform the information industry paradigm. Our hybrid security technology, combining physical QKD and quantum-safe PQC, represents practical and leading-edge capabilities for the post-quantum era.”
Trento Systems’ Vision for Secure 5G/6G Networks
Kim Young-jae, CEO of Trento Systems, expressed enthusiasm about integrating KISTI’s technology with their existing platforms: “Trento Systems has been actively developing communication security technologies tailored for future 5G and 6G environments, including 5G network slicing and mobility services. We plan to embed the hybrid QKD-PQC-classical security framework into our mobility communication platform ‘mONOS,’ ensuring both real-time performance and robust security for future mobility services based on 5G/6G networks.”
He also noted that Trento Systems was recently selected for the ‘Converged Technology Commercialization’ project under the ‘Quantum Leap Startup Support’ initiative, further boosting the partnership with KISTI to lead the future telecommunications security market.
Outlook
This technology transfer marks a critical milestone in the commercialization of quantum-safe communication solutions that are vital for securing the next generation of digital infrastructure. As threats from quantum computing loom over existing cryptographic standards, hybrid frameworks like that developed by KISTI and Trento Systems offer scalable, practical paths forward to protect sensitive communications across industries.
Reported by Ryu Jun-young, MoneyToday Unicorn Factory
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