Korea-Japan Jeju Startup Fund Selects First Investment Target

A joint South Korean-Japanese investment fund has selected its inaugural investment target, marking a significant step in fostering startup ecosystems in Jeju. The "Startup Korea Korea-Japan Jeju Startup Fund," valued at 10.1 billion won (approximately $7.3 million), announced its first investment in Saeropim, a company specializing in artificial intelligence-driven 3D content creation.

The fund, established in December through collaborative investment from Jeju Province, local Jeju businesses, and Korean residents in Japan, has been actively seeking promising ventures. After rigorous evaluation processes, including over 15 company presentations, detailed financial audits, and investment committee reviews, Saeropim was chosen as the first recipient. The specific investment amount remains undisclosed, adhering to the fund's regulations.

Saeropim, previously based in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, recently relocated its operations to Jeju Island. The company's focus on AI technology for 3D content production positions it at the forefront of digital innovation. This investment is expected to support Saeropim's global market expansion initiatives.

Jeju Province officials expressed optimism about the fund's potential. Kim Nam-jin, Director of Jeju Province's Innovative Industry Bureau, stated, "Capital from both Korea and Japan has begun to directly invest in Jeju startups." He added that the fund aims to build a virtuous cycle, connecting initial seed funding with subsequent private investment to ensure sustained growth for local enterprises.

“

Capital from both Korea and Japan has begun to directly invest in Jeju startups. We will solidify a virtuous cycle that leads from initial seed money to follow-on private investment.