Seoul’s startup ecosystem demonstrates momentum across investment, international engagement, and technology innovation, reinforcing its position as a globally-competitive hub for founders and investors. In 2025, South Korea’s startup investment market reached $10.1 billion.
South Korea’s government provides substantial funding and structured support to accelerate startup growth and innovation. South Korea launched the $475 million Startup Korea Fund 2025, marking the first time the government-backed vehicle secured participation from overseas investors alongside 27 private investors contributing domestic capital. The introduction of the Super-Gap / Deep-Tech track alongside a newly-created Open Innovation track further underscores the fund’s strategic focus on advancing Frontier Technologies. Seoul Metropolitan Government targeted $359 million in the first round of the Seoul Vision 2030 Fund formation, with a dedicated allocation for AI Transformation.
South Korea’s government approved a record $22 billion national R&D budget in 2025 – the largest in its history – demonstrating innovation’s role as a core economic strategy for the country. It also confirmed a budget of $11.3 billion to support startups and SMEs, and allocated $126 million to its 2025 Global Fund.
Seoul is a strong gateway for global tech talent. Over 2,600 teams from 97 countries applied to Korea’s flagship inbound program, reflecting the country’s rising position as a global entry point for startup talent. South Korea introduced the Korea Special Startup Visa to simplify entry for foreign entrepreneurs, prioritizing innovation and business potential over capital thresholds. Complementing this effort, Seoul’s K-STAR Visa Track simplifies the residency pathway for outstanding international STEM graduates and connects them to local startup support programs.
Seoul and Korea's startups are increasingly making their mark beyond domestic borders. South Korea’s Ministry of SMEs and Startups’ Collaboration Program launched in 2025, with global companies helping Korean startups scale and enter overseas markets. Seoul startups won 27 innovation awards at CES 2026, affirming the ecosystem’s status as a leading global startup city.
