Korea's Startups Gear Up for a Landmark Season at COMEUP 2025 and CES 2026

As the end of 2025 approaches, Korea's entrepreneurial scene is primed for a remarkable season that will see its innovation highlighted at two principal events: COMEUP 2025 and CES 2026. This dual showcase represents not just a milestone for local startups but indicates the country's growing prominence in the global innovation landscape. The government, under the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, is orchestrating COMEUP 2025, while the tech community eagerly prepares for the annual trek to Las Vegas for CES 2026.

A Long Journey to Recognition

Under the leadership of Minister Han Seong-sook, a notable figure and former chief executive of NAVER, Korea's rise on the global innovation stage is deliberate. Over recent years, strategic investments and a nurturing entrepreneurial culture have birthed an ecosystem that is transforming Korea's image from a country of fast adopters to one that consistently produces world-class innovations. This sustained growth is bolstered by over three decades of legislation designed to promote venture businesses, alongside the impactful contributions of the Korea Fund of Funds (KFoF).

The results of these efforts are clearly reflected at CES, where Korean startups have consistently garnered Innovation Awards. Their presence at the event has evolved significantly, expanding from a subtle showcase to one of the largest national pavilions, covering a diverse array of sectors from AI and mobility to green tech and smart home innovations.

COMEUP 2025: A Seasonal Highlight

Unfolding in Seoul, COMEUP has become a significant fixture for the startup community, typically scheduled for late autumn or early winter. By facilitating the convergence of founders, researchers, investors, and policymakers, the event now stands as a regional benchmark for emerging technologies.

This year, the event is expected to welcome thousands from 46 countries. Notable speakers are set to include Tareq Amin, CEO of Humain, and Sunghyun Park, CEO of Rebellions—indicating COMEUP's influence in the realms of AI and semiconductor advancements. The unique characteristics of COMEUP, including its robust public-private collaboration model and investor-focused sessions, have proven effective in propelling companies into the limelight, providing them with an invaluable platform to leap to global stages like CES.

The Transition from Seoul to Las Vegas

The journey from COMEUP in Seoul to CES in Las Vegas illustrates a meaningful evolution for Korean founders. As they transition from local visibility to international exposure, the K-Startup Pavilion at CES has become a vital launchpad for Korean innovators. Here, they can connect with investors, buyers, and international media eager to discover next-generation technologies.

Korean startups continue to achieve impressive results at CES, consistently receiving accolades in fields such as AI technologies, digital health solutions, robotics, and green technologies. Their sustained success reflects their rising global competitiveness and adaptability.

Broadening Horizons

Although COMEUP and CES serve different functions, together they tell a compelling story of a maturing and increasingly bold startup ecosystem. While COMEUP showcases Korea's innovative spirit at its inception, CES stands as an international arena where their award-winning innovations are juxtaposed against the finest global offerings.

Moreover, the international landscape is shifting, with overseas startups entering Korea through various government-led initiatives and corporate innovation programs. Seoul is becoming a hub for these exchanges, strengthening regional support networks to enhance international partnerships.

A Pivotal Chapter in Korea's Innovation Journey

As the year draws to a close, Korean startups find themselves securing global investments and venturing into new markets. Their advancements in sectors such as AI, digital health, mobility, robotics, and green energy mark a significant transition from experimental prototypes to commercially viable solutions. This journey through COMEUP and CES symbolizes not just a series of events but a crucial step towards cementing Korea's status on the international innovation stage.

If recent trends hold, one thing is clear: Korean startups are no longer merely emerging players; they are asserting their presence within the global market with increasing vibrancy.