KIAc Invests 12 Billion Won in Startups Last Year...Up 15% from Previous Year

Total Investment Reaches 40.8 Billion Won
66% Allocated to Companies Less Than Three Years Old

Korea Financial Holdings announced on January 9 that its subsidiary, Korea Investment Accelerator (KIAc), made new investments totaling 12 billion won throughout last year. This figure represents an increase of approximately 15% compared to the previous year, and the company is being recognized for actively expanding investments in early-stage companies despite the sluggish venture capital market.

Last year, a total of 30 new investments were made, focusing on technology-intensive sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), deep tech, bio, and healthcare. The company explained that its main objective was to help companies with high growth potential secure sustainable growth drivers by providing capital at critical early stages of their business. Since 2022, KIAc has invested 40.8 billion won in 120 companies. Of these, 66% of the investment amount has been allocated to companies less than three years old, strengthening its role as a 'First Institutional Investor' that supplies capital in the early stages of company formation.

Last year, follow-on investments in existing portfolio companies also amounted to 4.2 billion won. In addition, portfolio companies secured 35 external investments and were selected for the government startup support program TIPS in 11 cases, demonstrating their technological capabilities and growth potential.

The company also diversified its support programs to help portfolio companies expand their businesses. It hosted the 'Media X Challenge,' providing opportunities for investment in media and content sectors, and supported technology advancement and talent discovery through industry-academic cooperation with major universities. Furthermore, through global partnership programs such as 'K-Global Accelerating Barundonghaeng AX,' it expanded the stage for companies to grow internationally.

KIAc is a specialized accelerator established with the goal of contributing to society through finance. It provides early-stage companies struggling to raise funds with seed investments, mentoring, and office space to help build their growth foundation. A KIAc representative stated, "We are focusing on building long-term trust with companies as a partner that grows with startups throughout their entire lifecycle, from the initial stage to growth and scaling up," adding, "We plan to actively support portfolio companies in becoming global enterprises by leveraging the financial infrastructure and network of Korea Investment Financial Group."