Busan, South Korea – The city of Busan has entered into strategic partnerships with Microsoft and IonQ, aiming to advance its capabilities in information technology (IT) and quantum computing. Announced during Mayor Park Heong-joon’s recent visit to Seattle, these agreements are part of the city’s efforts to foster innovation and create opportunities in emerging technology sectors.
One of the key outcomes of the visit is the planned establishment of the Busan Data Center Academy, a collaboration between Busan and Microsoft. As part of Microsoft’s global Datacenter Academy Program, the initiative will provide free training in areas such as cloud computing and IT infrastructure. Participants will also have access to certifications, mentorship, and internships. According to Microsoft, the academy is designed to address the increasing demand for skilled professionals in IT and data management.
“Microsoft’s Datacenter Academy is a workforce development program aimed at expanding opportunities in local communities through education and hands-on experience,” said Aditya Dalmia, Vice President at Microsoft. “Busan’s focus on advancing its technology infrastructure aligns with this mission.”
Another agreement was signed with IonQ, a quantum computing firm specializing in trapped-ion technology. The collaboration includes the use of IonQ’s quantum cloud services to explore applications in sectors such as logistics and finance. Busan plans to use the partnership to expand its presence in the quantum computing industry, which is regarded as a key area of technological advancement.
IonQ has been noted for its recent breakthroughs in scalable quantum computing, including reducing computational complexity for optimization problems. “This partnership demonstrates Busan’s interest in leveraging advanced technologies for its economic and industrial development,” said an IonQ representative.
During the visit, Mayor Park also met with Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell to discuss collaboration in areas such as technology, tourism, logistics, and environmental sustainability. Seattle, home to global companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Boeing, has evolved into a major tech hub, providing insights for Busan’s development plans.
Mayor Park commented, “Seattle’s transformation from a traditional industrial base to a global technology center offers valuable lessons for Busan. These agreements are a step toward achieving similar goals in IT and green industries.”
Mayor Harrell highlighted the potential for cooperation between the two cities, citing shared priorities in innovation and sustainability. “Busan and Seattle have complementary strengths that could lead to meaningful collaboration,” Harrell said.
The partnerships with Microsoft and IonQ are expected to impact Busan’s economy and workforce development, with a focus on job creation and skill-building. Busan officials have emphasized the role of these initiatives in positioning the city as a regional hub for advanced technologies.
Both projects are set to begin implementation in 2025, with the Busan Data Center Academy slated to launch later this year. City officials expressed optimism about the potential long-term benefits, including talent development and technological innovation.
