Seoul youth entrepreneurship support initiatives

In mid‑July 2026, South Korean telecom operator KT signed a memorandum of understanding with the Seoul Credit Guarantee Foundation to deepen cooperation on youth small‑business support. The deal linked KT’s “Wai‑roun Store” program with the city’s 12‑week “Prep Academy” training scheme, offering branding, marketing, digital‑solution assistance, up to 70 million won in financing and consulting, and digital‑operation training for aspiring restaurant owners aged 19‑39.

A week later, two additional Seoul‑based firms expanded the effort. KT&G partnered with the Seongdong district office to extend a 2018 collaboration, providing its “Imagination Planet” platform, business‑training programs and participation in a social‑venture expo. The same day, online marketplace Bungejangteo (Bunjang) concluded a similar MOU with the Seoul metropolitan government, focusing on practical work experience, sales‑channel access through its platform, co‑organising events and ESG‑oriented programmes. Together, these agreements broadened the range of resources and partners available to young entrepreneurs in the capital region, reinforcing the city’s push to create jobs and socially valuable businesses.