QR code is an abbreviation for Quick Response, and is a two-dimensional barcode that can quickly recognize information.

1. Development: QR code was developed in 1994 by Denso Wave in Japan. Its initial purpose was to track automobile parts, and it focused on developing a technology that could hold more information than barcodes and be read quickly.

2. Use in Japan: It was initially used primarily in Japan, and was quickly adopted in places such as the advertising industry. QR codes became very popular in Japan, especially for integration with mobile devices.

3. International expansion: From the late 2000s to the early 2010s, QR codes began to be used worldwide. With the spread of smartphones, apps that could read QR codes were developed, and they began to be used in various fields.

4. Application Expansion: QR codes were initially used primarily to contain URL links or text information, but they have now expanded to include a variety of uses, including payment systems, event registration, business card information transmission, and Wi-Fi connection setup.

5. Technological Advancement: The technological advancement of QR codes has been accompanied by advances in various fields, such as image processing technology and encryption technology. In addition, QR codes have become easier to create and read, allowing them to be used more widely.