#South Korea #Seoul #NextRise #KITA #KDB

NextRise 2026: Asia's Premier Startup Fair in Seoul

The Korea International Trade Association (KITA) and the Korea Development Bank (KDB) are gearing up to host NextRise 2026, the largest startup fair in Asia, set to take place at COEX in Seoul from June 18–19, 2026. Now in its eighth iteration, this year’s event is anticipated to attract over 530 startups alongside more than 270 global corporations and investors, fostering an environment geared towards business collaborations and innovative solutions under the overarching theme, "Shape the Next."

A Platform for Innovation

This year’s NextRise is already breaking records. With exhibition booths featuring a diverse array of startups from sectors including AI and biotechnology, the fair promises an extensive showcase of groundbreaking ideas and technologies. Major Korean corporations, such as LG Group, Hyundai Motor, SK Telecom, and Korean Air, will be among the 150 large and mid-sized companies participating. Additionally, over 120 venture capital firms are expected to attend, presenting valuable opportunities for startups to forge connections and secure funding.

Business Meetups and Networking

One of the standout features of NextRise is the 11 Business Meetup program, which is designed for direct engagement between startups and investors. With more than 3,800 meetings scheduled, this program allows for personalized discussions on potential partnerships and investment opportunities. This structure is beneficial not only for startups and established businesses but also for investors looking to tap into Asia's burgeoning startup ecosystem.

Emphasis on International Collaboration

NextRise 2026 highlights the significance of international partnerships, particularly with France being recognized as this year’s Guest of Honor. Noteworthy French companies such as Renault and L'Oréal have confirmed their attendance, which underscores the event's role as a conduit between the Korean startup scene and global markets.

Educational and Inspirational Events

In addition to the exhibition and networking opportunities, NextRise will feature a series of keynote speeches and panel discussions hosted by industry experts. Attendees can look forward to a Startup and Employment Concert, which aims to promote entrepreneurship within the venture ecosystem. This concert will connect early-stage startups with aspiring AI developers, helping to bridge skill gaps and promote innovation.

Furthermore, the NextRise Awards program will identify exceptional startups for dedicated support in their efforts to expand internationally. Previous events have shown the substantial impact of this program, with last year witnessing 205 startups achieve concrete business outcomes, including 104 startups raising a total of KRW 500 billion in investments.

A Gateway to the Asian Market

As NextRise continues to grow since its inception in 2019, it has solidified its status as Korea's flagship startup fair. It not only provides a platform for domestic startups but also helps international businesses penetrate the Asian market. Hee-Chul Jung, Executive Managing Director of KITA's Global Marketing Group, emphasized that the fair is an essential opportunity for global entrants to explore collaboration and growth avenues within Asia.

The complete list of participating corporations and investors is accessible on the official NextRise website, and startups are encouraged to apply for participation until May 11, 2026. This event is more than just a fair; it is a celebration of innovation, partnership, and the limitless potential of the startup ecosystem in Korea and beyond.

Feel free to stay updated and seize this unparalleled opportunity to connect, innovate, and thrive in the dynamic world of startups at NextRise 2026!