NextRise 2023, the prominent tech startup event held at COEX in Samseong-dong, Seoul, came to a resounding success on June 1st and 2nd. he event, celebrating its fifth anniversary this year, attracted over 450 startups from diverse fields, all eager to connect with industry leaders, investors, and accelerators in the vibrant startup ecosystem

Amidst the sea of innovators, the online manufacturing platform CAPA and its partners stood out, catching the attention of attendees with their groundbreaking contributions to the future of manufacturing. CAPA, known for its commitment to revolutionizing the manufacturing landscape, facilitated the presence of approximately 30 of its startup clients at NextRise 2023. Among these exceptional companies, five startups stood out, captivating the imaginations of industry experts and investors alike. These startups are Narma, Innospace, Roen Surgical, Cellico, and Superbin, each pushing the boundaries of their respective industries and leaving a lasting impression at the event.

Narma, a startup dedicated to developing cutting-edge delivery drones, captivated the audience with its revolutionary technology. As the first research institute company of the Korea Aerospace Research Institute, Narma has positioned itself as a pioneer in the field. The company’s electric dual tilt-rotor drone, optimized for delivery, has garnered significant attention for its high-speed flight capabilities and successful demonstration flights in challenging urban environments.

Innospace hailed as the “Korean version of SpaceX,” drew admiration with its private launch vehicle technology. Leveraging hybrid rocket technology, Innospace aims to drastically reduce rocket launch costs and shorten launch waiting times. With the successful launch of the ‘Hanbit-TLV’ test launch vehicle in Brazil, Innospace solidified its position as the first private Korean company to achieve such a milestone. Plans are already underway for the development of ‘Hanbit-Nano,’ a two-stage launch vehicle set to revolutionize commercial launch services.

ROEN Surgical took center stage with its flexible endoscopic surgical robots. Born out of 25 years of research at the prestigious Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Roen Surgical’s robots offer groundbreaking solutions in multiple medical fields. Their flagship product, ‘Zamenix,’ a remote kidney stone removal robot has garnered significant acclaim, enabling surgeons to perform procedures with reduced complexity and radiation exposure.

Cellico, a startup driven by a vision to restore vision, showcased their groundbreaking ‘electronic eye’ solution at NextRise 2023.By leveraging image sensor semiconductors found in smartphone cameras, Celico’s technology has the potential to transform the lives of visually impaired individuals. The company’s innovations have already earned recognition, with prestigious accolades such as the Innovation Award at CES 2023 and the gold prize at the Edison Awards.

Superbin, an advocate for a circular economy of waste, demonstrated how fourth-industrial technology can combat the pressing issue of waste management through the use of robotics and design; Superbin aims to create a sustainable future. Their AI-powered robot, ‘Nephron,’ accurately separates different types of waste, incentivizing individuals with points that can be converted into cash. Superbin’s innovative business model has not only attracted significant investments but also earned it nominations for prestigious awards such as the ‘Earth Shot’ and the ‘Nobel Prize in the Environment.’

At NextRise 2023, CAPA’s commitment to fostering partnerships was evident, with Microsystem, Trashbusters, and LAONIX among the companies showcasing their collaborations with the online manufacturing platform. Microsystem, the AI video surveillance CCTV developer awarded Best Innovation at CES 2023, and Trashbusters, a multi-use container rental startup, highlighted the impact of CAPA’s support in their growth. LAONIX, a 3D printing partner of CAPA, demonstrated extraordinary dedication by traveling from Ulsan to participate in the event.

The success of CAPA’s partners at NextRise 2023 exemplifies the power of collaboration and innovation in shaping the future of manufacturing. By providing a platform for startups to connect with industry leaders, investors, and accelerators, CAPA continues to propel South Korea’s vibrant startup ecosystem forward. With their unwavering commitment to revolutionize manufacturing, CAPA and its partners are poised to make an indelible mark on the global stage, solidifying their position as catalysts of change and innovation in the industry.

As NextRise 2023 came to a close, the event’s electrifying atmosphere left attendees eagerly anticipating the possibilities that lie ahead. The Seoul Center for Creative Economy and Innovation’s Insight Conference for Material Managers provided further insights into the latest trends, offering a glimpse into the future of manufacturing. With the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic slowly receding, the stage is set for CAPA and its partners to continue driving innovation and shaping the future of manufacturing in South Korea and beyond.

As preparations begin for NextRise’s next edition, CAPA remains committed to supporting and empowering even more hardware startups, ensuring their presence and success at future events.

The source for this article is a Korean piece located at CAPA website. This version has been translated into English with additional revisions for clarity.

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