#Korea Tourism #KTSC Program #Creww Korea

2025 KTSC Tokyo Tourism Open Innovation Program: Selected Startups Announced

In an exciting development for international tourism, Creww, along with Creww Korea and the Korea Tourism Organization, has initiated the 2025 KTSC Tokyo Tourism Open Innovation Program. This program aims to facilitate the entrance of innovative South Korean tourism startups into the Japanese market starting in May 2025. Recently, four startups have been chosen to collaborate with three Japanese companies for Proof of Concept (PoC) trials, marking a significant step for these companies in their journey toward globalization.

Overview of the KTSC Program

The KTSC Program represents a collaborative effort designed to bring together Korean startups with Japanese tourism-related businesses to create pioneering tourism solutions. The primary focus is to help South Korean startups establish a foothold in the Japanese market, allowing them to validate their technologies through partnerships with Japanese firms. The program anticipates a fruitful synergy between the South Korean and Japanese tourism sectors, paving the way for broader global expansion.

Creww plays an integral role in this initiative by overseeing various processes from assessments and matchmaking to the implementation and evaluation of PoC trials. By providing comprehensive support, Creww ensures that each involved startup is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of entering a foreign market.

Selection Process

Startups with innovative technologies and solutions relevant to tourism were invited to participate in the KTSC Program. The selection process involved comprehensive document reviews and pitch assessments, culminating in discussions between successful applicants and the participating Japanese companies. After thorough deliberation, the following four startups have been chosen:

1. Alpha.lab
- Collaborative theme: Implementing a Japan inspection program targeted at South Korean restaurants eager to expand into Japan.

2. RE:PLACE
- Collaborative theme: Operating a collaborative café at