The Korea Institute of Startup & Entrepreneurship Development (KISED) is a governmental body focused on fostering the startup ecosystem in Korea. Established in 2008, KISED is based in Sejong, South Korea, and operates under the Ministry of SMEs and Startups. The organization is dedicated to supporting Korean startups and facilitating their growth domestically and internationally. Through various initiatives, KISED provides resources, expertise, and strategic support to help startups navigate the Korean market, encouraging innovative entrepreneurs globally.
KISED has been actively involved in promoting Korean startups on the global stage through various international events and initiatives. Here are some key developments from recent years:
March 2026: At the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, KISED operated the "STARTUP KOREA" booth and hosted the Startup Korea Bridge networking event. This initiative aimed to promote Korea as a hub for innovative entrepreneurs by providing support programs for international founders. The event also highlighted Korea's startup ecosystem to European companies, featuring initiatives like the Special Visa system for foreign founders and government grant programs.
January 2026: At CES 2026, KISED participated in the K-Startup Integrated Pavilion, resulting in significant engagement and business deals. The participation concluded with approximately USD 2 million in signed contracts and numerous memorandums of understanding, enhancing the global reach of Korean startups.
2025: Throughout 2025, KISED expanded its efforts to create a supportive infrastructure for startups by establishing national pavilions at key global exhibitions with institutions like the Seoul Business Agency and KOTRA. Achievements included Korea dominating the CES 2026 Innovation Awards, with Korean startups receiving a majority of the awards in robotics and deep-tech manufacturing.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2008 |
| Headquarters | Sejong, Korea |
| Founders | Governmental Initiative |
| Industry | Startup Development |
| Employees | 200-500 |
KISED was established in 2008 as part of the South Korean government's broader strategy to boost innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly amid growing global competition. The initial focus was on creating structured incubation systems and resources tailored to assist startups from inception to commercialization. Early on, KISED played a crucial role in identifying promising startups and providing them a platform to develop necessary skills and networks. This foundational support helped shape a vibrant ecosystem that could attract both domestic and international interest.
KISED's business model revolves around supporting startups through various stages, from infrastructure to globalization. One of its main achievements is the establishment of a tailored support system, which includes online mentoring, entrepreneurship education, and aiding startups to innovate into global markets. Some major milestones include:
KISED plays a pivotal role in Korea's startup ecosystem by continually expanding its reach and refining its support mechanisms to meet evolving market demands. It engages in promoting startups through key global events such as CES and MWC. Its competitive advantages include a robust support system that not only aids in infrastructure development but also ensures startups are globally competitive. Recent strategic initiatives reflect the efforts to bolster Korea's position as a central hub for startups by targeting entrepreneurial ecosystems across Asia, Europe, and North America.
Overall, KISED stands as a significant institution in the field of startup development in Korea, providing crucial support and fostering a global network conducive to entrepreneurship. With a comprehensive approach that covers from fostering infrastructural foundations to encouraging international collaborations, KISED continues to chart a path forward for Korea as a leading global startup hub. Its future trajectory seems promising, given its expanding international footprint and continuous efforts to enhance the ecosystem's innovative potential.
