Korea is a strong open innovation market because large corporates actively scout technologies and public/private events create structured meeting channels.

Best Entry Routes

• Innobranch: online challenge and scouting platform operated by KITA.
• NextRise 1:1 Meetup: high-density matching with corporates and investors.
• Startup Branch: COEX-based startup/open innovation event space and IR center.
• SBA / Seoul Startup Hub: Seoul-based corporate collaboration and PoC programs.
• Corporate accelerators: sector-specific programs run by global and Korean companies.

Build a Korea PoC Brief

Include:

• Problem statement for Korean customer.
• Product demo and integration requirements.
• PoC timeline: 6-12 weeks.
• Success metrics.
• Data, privacy, security, and IP terms.
• Budget and commercial conversion path.

References

• Drive source: KITA Startup Branch deck, 2026.
• Drive source: NextRise 2026 docent and event materials.
• Innobranch official platform.
• SBA / Seoul Startup Hub official resources.