The Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS, Minister Han Seong-sook) held a policy roundtable with innovative companies from the Chungcheong region on Tuesday, November 4, at LICORN* Town in Asan, Chungcheongnam-do. The session was part of a nationwide consultation process to develop Korea’s “Strategy for Becoming a Global Top Four Venture Powerhouse.”

*LICORN: Lifestyle & Local Innovation uniCORN

The meeting, chaired by Vice Minister Roh Yong-seok, was designed to bring real-world perspectives from Korea’s startup ecosystem into policy making. The discussion focused on how to strengthen the venture and startup environment, respond to intensifying global technology competition, and accelerate the momentum of Korea’s Next Wave of Venture Growth. 

Beginning in Chungcheong, the roundtable series will continue across the country, with follow-up sessions scheduled for Busan (Yeongnam region) on November 12 and Gwangju (Honam region) on November 24. 

The forthcoming “Global Top Four Venture Powerhouse Strategy” aims to unite national policy efforts, nurture deep-tech-driven unicorn and decacorn companies, and strengthen Korea’s global leadership in emerging markets. The final plan is expected to be announced later this year. 

In his opening remarks, Vice Minister Roh noted: 
“Industries around the world are being reshaped by strategic sectors such as AI, semiconductors, and energy. By promoting technology-based entrepreneurship and encouraging greater private investment, Korea will take bold steps toward becoming a leading global venture nation.”

Representatives from Chungcheong-s defense and innovation sectors shared their perspectives on key policy needs, including:
-    Expanding government support for digital transformation in manufacturing
-    Encouraging AI adoption among SMEs
-    Strengthening Korea’s defense industry (K-Defense)
-    Advancing bio and pharmaceutical technology support

MSS stated that it will carefully review the feedback collected during the meeting and reflect it in the upcoming strategy and related policy measures.

Vice Minister Roh concluded: 
“Each opinion shared today will play a valuable role in refining our policy approach. The Ministry will maintain close communication with the field to ensure these discussions lead to meaningful follow-up actions.”