South Korean startups secure domestic funding and expand global presence

South Korean startups are expanding their reach through both domestic investment initiatives and international showcases. In Gyeongsangbuk-do, nine local startups secured 3.68 billion won in investment during the ‘2026 Gyeongsangbuk-do Startup Investment Matching Day’ held at GumiCo. The event featured 103 startups and 32 investment firms, focusing on connecting growth-stage companies with financial and corporate collaboration opportunities.

On the global stage, 25 South Korean startups participated in the ‘TechCrunch Disrupt 2026’ in San Francisco. Organized by KOTRA, the Korean Pavilion showcased innovations in artificial intelligence, healthcare, robotics, and climate technology. During the three-day event, approximately 780 one-on-one consultations were arranged, and 25 companies conducted investment pitches to local investors. Notably, the AI marketing platform BuzzAndBee was selected for the ‘Startup Battlefield 200’ competition.