A group of pioneering Korean startups, nurtured under the KDB NextONE program and backed by KDB Development Bank, is poised to make waves in the global tech arena as they prepare for Japan IT Week. This leading IT exhibition, scheduled for three days from October 23rd at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan, will serve as an ideal platform for these startups to showcase their cutting-edge solutions and explore strategic partnerships in the Japanese market.
KDB NextONE: A Catalyst for Innovation and Growth
KDB NextONE, the flagship startup development initiative of KDB Development Bank, has been a cornerstone of innovation since its inception in 2020. Over eight cycles, the program has nurtured and supported 120 startups, offering comprehensive services that include office space, personalized mentoring, IR consulting, and business collaboration opportunities.
The program’s core mission is to foster substantial growth and attract investment, enabling these startups to scale their innovative solutions globally. Notably, 53 startups raised a total of KRW 62.8 billion (USD 46 million) during their incubation, with KDB Development Bank directly investing KRW 23.4 billion (USD 17 million) in 11 KDB NextONE startups, highlighting its dedication to scaling innovative solutions globally.
Exploring Synergies with Japanese Companies
In the days leading up to Japan IT Week, the Korean delegation, including a total of eight promising startups, will engage in a series of exploratory meetings on October 21st and 22nd. These discussions are designed to identify potential synergies with Japanese companies, laying the groundwork for collaborative ventures with Korean startups and companies. The meetings will emphasize the importance of fostering strong cross-border relationships that can drive future innovation and growth.
Spotlight on Innovation: Meet the Korean Startups
- Lattice: Lattice’s flagship product, PRIX, is an all-in-one contract management solution tailored for B2B needs. This SaaS platform integrates electronic contracts, project management, and quote/invoice handling, offering businesses a streamlined and efficient way to manage contracts from start to finish.
- Infiniteblock: Infiniteblock specializes in blockchain technology, providing a secure digital asset custody platform for corporations and institutions. Their expertise in private key management and electronic wallet services empowers businesses to navigate the digital asset landscape with confidence.
- Bitsensing: A leader in imaging radar technology, Bitsensing is committed to creating safer smart cities. Their wellness radar product, which requires no cameras or wearable devices, delivers a comprehensive digital healthcare solution by analyzing sleep data, including apnea occurrences, through advanced radar sensing technology.
- Dareesoft: Dareesoft’s AI-powered solution is revolutionizing road management by automatically detecting hazards such as potholes and debris. Their comprehensive system, including an AI road analysis device and data platform, provides real-time information that supports autonomous driving and enhances road safety.
- Lionrocket: Lionrocket is transforming the webtoon industry with Genvas, a solution that leverages Brain Boost Learning and generative AI technology. This innovative approach accelerates webtoon production and reduces costs, paving the way for the creation of numerous blockbuster IPs.
- Inshorts: Inshorts will present two innovative AI-driven solutions—AI Superscaler and Inshorts. AI Superscaler enhances video content quality by upgrading animations to 4K resolution, while Inshorts seamlessly integrates products into filmed content, drastically shortening the time required for product placements.
- Impactive AI: Impactive AI offers a sophisticated Decision Support System powered by AI prediction models. This system optimizes the entire product lifecycle, from launch to discontinuation, through predictive analytics, ensuring informed decision-making and improved efficiency.
- Tilda: Tilda’s AI-powered platform, ArgMax, optimizes facility operations by deriving control values that improve productivity, increase production, and reduce resource consumption. Their technology ensures that facilities operate at peak efficiency while meeting sustainability targets.
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Building Bridges for Future Innovation
As these Korean startups gear up to showcase their groundbreaking technologies at Japan IT Week, exploratory meetings with Japanese companies will be crucial in building strategic partnerships. These interactions will pave the way for collaborative opportunities that not only benefit the startups but also contribute to the broader global tech ecosystem.
The participation of these startups in Japan IT Week represents a significant milestone in their journey toward global expansion. Supported by KDB Development Bank and the KDB NextONE program, these companies are well-positioned to make a lasting impact in the Japanese market and beyond, driving innovation and setting new benchmarks in technology and business.
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