AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Journalist

Jung Yeon-woo
  • Koreas K-Tech Demo Day Held in New York to Boost U.S. Market Entry for SMEs
    Korea's K-Tech Demo Day Held in New York to Boost U.S. Market Entry for SMEs The Korea SMEs and Startups Agency is enhancing financial support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) entering the U.S. market. On June 2, the agency held the "K-Tech Demo Day" in Manhattan, New York, showcasing 12 domestic tech service SMEs. The event attracted over 200 attendees, including representatives from global venture capital firms and investment banks such as Third Prime and JPMorgan Chase, as well as officials from the New York City Economic Development Corporation, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, and the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce. The morning session featured investment presentations (IR pitching) from the 12 startups, along with one-on-one investment consultations. The afternoon included discussions on local government support policies for businesses, financial support programs from local banks, strategies for attracting U.S. venture capital investment, and a panel discussion featuring Korean entrepreneurs in the K-beauty, food, and tech sectors. Earlier this year, in January, the agency opened the "K-Startup Center Silicon Valley" to assist domestic startups in expanding into the U.S. market and increasing exports. Park Il-cheol, a commercial attaché at the Korean Consulate General in New York, stated in his remarks, "Our overseas missions and local public institutions are working as a united team to actively support the entry of our SMEs into the U.S. market. I will ensure that this event serves as a successful example of our government's support for the global expansion of SMEs through collaborative efforts." Park Jang-hyuk, the agency's global growth director, emphasized, "This event is focused on providing practical assistance for attracting U.S. venture capital investment for promising domestic tech service SMEs. We will continue to strengthen connections with local investors, banks, and government agencies to expand financial support for domestic companies entering the U.S. market."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-04 17:18:00
  • One Login for All: South Koreas Ministry of SMEs Launches Unified Membership Service
    One Login for All: South Korea's Ministry of SMEs Launches Unified Membership Service The Ministry of SMEs and Startups is establishing a streamlined system that allows users to access key policy services with a single login. Starting at 9 a.m. on June 5, the ministry will pilot the 'SME Venture 24 Unified Membership Service,' announced on June 4. This service marks the first phase of the SME Venture 24 enhancement project, enabling users to access major policy services operated by the ministry and related agencies with one account. Previously, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and small business owners had to create separate accounts for each agency's website to utilize policy funds, startup support, research and development (R&D), export assistance, and other support programs. With the new system, they will be able to access multiple policy systems with a single login. The ministry will pilot the unified membership service while ensuring that users can reliably access the new service by running the existing SME Venture 24 alongside the new offering for a period of time. Additionally, the ministry plans to continuously improve the user interface and experience (UI/UX) for frequently accessed certificate issuance and support program information, and will gradually establish a tailored service foundation for businesses. Based on this unified membership system, the ministry aims to link policy and support program data and will pilot an AI-based support program recommendation service in September 2026, focusing on user needs. Earlier, President Lee Jae-myung likened the complexity of SME policies to a “tangled mess” during a dialogue with small business owners at the Blue House in March, highlighting the need for streamlined procedures. Minister Han Seong-sook stated, "This unified membership service is the first step in making it easier for SMEs and small business owners to access various SME policies. We will gradually connect the previously fragmented policy services and improve accessibility to create a platform that genuinely supports business growth."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-04 16:42:00
  • Korea Technology Guarantee Fund Partners with IBK to Support SMEs with 750 Billion Won
    Korea Technology Guarantee Fund Partners with IBK to Support SMEs with 750 Billion Won The Korea Technology Guarantee Fund (TGIF) has initiated financial support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in future strategic industries and those facing policy financing gaps. On June 4, TGIF announced that it has signed two memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with the Industrial Bank of Korea (IBK): one for productive financial support for future strategic industries and another for financial support for companies in policy gaps. These agreements aim to facilitate funding for SMEs in future strategic industries, enhancing their financial accessibility and supporting their growth and advancement. Under the productive financial support agreement, TGIF will provide a total of 492.5 billion won in guarantee agreements, based on a special contribution of 9 billion won from IBK and a guarantee fee support of 5 billion won. Eligible companies include new technology businesses that meet TGIF's technology guarantee criteria and operate in six advanced strategic industries: artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, cultural content, defense, energy, and advanced manufacturing. Additionally, under the policy gap financial support agreement, TGIF will supply a total of 250 billion won in guarantee agreements, based on a special contribution of 5 billion won from IBK and a guarantee fee support of 2.55 billion won. Eligible companies for this support include new technology businesses in the materials, parts, and equipment sectors, root industries, small enterprises, startup graduates (those in business for more than 7 years but less than 12), companies undergoing restructuring or transitioning to new industries, and other firms recommended by IBK. Both agreements will provide benefits such as an increase in the guarantee ratio (from 85% to 100% for three years) and a reduction in guarantee fees (by 0.2% to 0.3% for three years). IBK will also offer guarantee fee support (from 0.5% to 1.5% for two years). Previously, TGIF signed an MOU with the National Federation of Fisheries Cooperatives to provide a total of 84 billion won in guarantee agreements to support SMEs in future strategic industries. Kim Jong-ho, the chairman of TGIF, stated, "This agreement strengthens the growth foundation for SMEs that will lead future industries and represents meaningful cooperation to address the gaps in policy financing. TGIF will continue to expand collaboration with financial institutions to enhance productive and inclusive finance, actively supporting the leap of innovative companies."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-04 14:18:00
  • Baemin Launches Campaign with Veterans Affairs Ministry for June Month of National Defense
    Baemin Launches Campaign with Veterans Affairs Ministry for June 'Month of National Defense' Baemin has organized a meaningful event to honor veterans. The company, operated by Woowa Brothers, announced on June 4 that it will collaborate with the Ministry of Veterans Affairs for a campaign in recognition of the 'Month of National Defense.' This campaign utilizes ideas selected from a public idea contest held by the Ministry of Veterans Affairs in March and April. Baemin aims to promote a culture of gratitude and respect for veterans through this event using its app. Until June 8, users can access content on the Baemin app that highlights the significance of the Month of National Defense and the importance of honoring veterans. Customers who share the link to this page will be eligible to receive Baemin coupons worth 5,000 won, with 400 coupons available daily on a first-come, first-served basis. Baemin stated that this initiative seeks to seamlessly connect daily life with the values of national defense and to foster a culture of remembering and appreciating the sacrifices made by veterans. Kim Joong-hyun, head of the Sustainable Management Division at Woowa Brothers, said, "We planned this campaign to share the values of honoring veterans with our customers during the Month of National Defense. We will continue to grow as a service that positively impacts the daily lives of citizens through various activities that realize social value." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-04 14:00:00
  • Ministry of SMEs to Enhance Support for New Startups in Non-Metropolitan Areas
    Ministry of SMEs to Enhance Support for New Startups in Non-Metropolitan Areas The Ministry of SMEs and Startups is set to strengthen policy support for new super-gap startups in 12 key sectors located in non-metropolitan areas. On June 2, the ministry held a plaque ceremony and meeting at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) Munji Campus in Daejeon, targeting new super-gap startups established in non-metropolitan regions in 2026. The meeting aimed to encourage super-gap startups driving innovative growth in non-metropolitan areas and to gather feedback to enhance region-focused new industry startup policies. The 'Super-Gap Startup Project' selects startups in new industry sectors that will lead the future of the national economy and nurtures them into global unicorns through support programs for technology commercialization and development. Since its launch in 2023, the project has selected around 200 companies annually and has nurtured a total of 804 companies to date. Notably, the selection rate for new companies in non-metropolitan areas has increased from 28.7% in 2023 to 35.5% this year. The annual selection rates for non-metropolitan areas are 28.7% in 2023, 30% in 2024, 33% in 2025, and 35.5% in 2026. Starting this year, the government has expanded and restructured the focus from 10 key sectors to 12 new industries, reflecting global technology and market trends. The 12 new industry sectors identified by the ministry include: AI models and infrastructure, semiconductors, mobility, quantum security and networks, robotics, life sciences and new drugs, healthcare, content, defense, aerospace and marine, eco-friendliness, energy, nuclear power, and fusion, and advanced manufacturing (sensors and processes). The selected 200 startups will receive up to 600 million won in commercialization funds over three years, along with additional technology development funds of up to 600 million won based on separate evaluations, totaling 1.2 billion won in direct support. They will also benefit from infrastructure for technology development, open innovation, and global expansion through specialized institutions in various fields, including investment and exports. Additionally, from 2023, 15 outstanding startups that have achieved significant results in sales, employment, and investment will be selected for follow-up support of up to 1 billion won in commercialization funds for global scaling over the next two years. The ministry aims to use this meeting as a starting point to spread the entrepreneurial wave of new industries in the region by establishing 'super-gap regional governance' involving local governments, related organizations, venture capital, and startups across 10 regional offices. They plan to continue supporting local startups through investment briefings, one-on-one investment consultations, and meetups with large and medium-sized enterprises. Noh Yong-seok, the first vice minister of SMEs and Startups, stated, "The increasing selection rate of new super-gap startups in non-metropolitan areas will greatly contribute to regional economic growth."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 17:00:01
  • Ace Bed Launches New Classic Bed Onore Featuring Two Mattress System
    Ace Bed Launches New Classic Bed 'Onore' Featuring 'Two Mattress' System Ace Bed has introduced its new product, 'Onore,' equipped with the 'Two Mattress' system. According to Ace Bed, 'Onore' reinterprets classic aesthetics through a modern lens. The design features a minimalist approach, eliminating excessive ornamentation while highlighting restrained details and the beauty of proportion. The headboard is particularly eye-catching, made with walnut veneer that showcases the natural grain of the wood. The front is adorned with a textured fabric pattern, adding a softer touch to the wooden frame. The wooden pillars, a key design element, exhibit delicate sculptural beauty and detail. The harmonious balance of curves and straight lines in the pillars complements the silhouette of the headboard, enhancing its luxurious presence. Ace Bed's unique bed technology is also incorporated. The 'Two Mattress' system features specialized springs in the foundation that effectively absorb weight and impact on the top mattress, providing solid support and stability. Additionally, the design includes a 190mm foundation and 60mm low-profile legs, lowering the overall height to allow for comfortable use with thicker premium mattresses. The minimalist design of the backboard is said to enhance visual openness. Previously, Ace Bed launched the low-profile hotel-style bed 'Opimo3' to improve profitability. Furthermore, a pop-up event for the premium mattress brand 'Ace Heritage' is being held at the Shinsegae Department Store in Gangnam until June 4. An Ace Bed representative stated, "The new product 'Onore' showcases timeless classic beauty in a modern interpretation, highlighting its luxurious and trendy appeal."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 17:00:00
  • Ministry of SMEs and Startups to Ease Labor Burden for Small Businesses
    Ministry of SMEs and Startups to Ease Labor Burden for Small Businesses The Ministry of SMEs and Startups and the Ministry of Employment and Labor are taking steps to alleviate the labor burdens faced by small businesses and provide support for hiring lawyers when necessary to prevent disputes. On June 2, Minister Han Seong-sook announced a plan to support small business owners in hiring lawyers during a meeting focused on labor issues at the Korea Certified Labor Attorneys Association in Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul. The meeting included small business owners from sectors such as convenience stores, restaurants, and cafes, where labor-related disputes frequently arise due to high employee hiring rates. Participants shared their challenges in labor management and discussed potential improvements. The Small Business Association explained the labor-related difficulties faced by on-site small business owners and proposed an expansion of government support to address these issues. Previously, on May 29, the association signed a memorandum of understanding with the Korea Certified Labor Attorneys Association to establish a management safety net for small businesses and improve labor conditions. Following this, the Ministry of SMEs and Startups and the Ministry of Employment and Labor announced government support measures to resolve labor issues for small businesses. The Ministry of SMEs and Startups plans to collaborate with the Korea Certified Labor Attorneys Association to create a Q&A-style guidebook focusing on common labor cases that small business owners often overlook. Additionally, they will hold regional briefings and produce online informational videos, including short-form content. Furthermore, the Small Business Association will operate a counseling center where small business owners can seek advice in the event of labor disputes. For serious labor issues, they will support consultations and the hiring of specialized labor attorneys. The Ministry of Employment and Labor introduced a 24-hour 'AI Labor Law Counseling' service for individual small business owners and plans to integrate it with the 'Small Business 24' support platform to enhance accessibility. Participants expressed the need for government consulting support due to the significant management burden caused by complex wage and allowance systems, such as weekly holiday pay and severance pay. Minister Han Seong-sook stated, "Small business owners often find it difficult to keep up with complex labor laws while focusing on their daily operations. We will implement the announced support measures effectively and strive to create an environment where small business owners can manage their businesses with peace of mind by better understanding and preventing common labor issues."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 16:54:00
  • Rising Demand for Cooling Sleep Products Amid Early Heat Waves
    Rising Demand for Cooling Sleep Products Amid Early Heat Waves As early heat waves and tropical nights grip the region, sales of cooling sleep products designed to enhance comfort during sleep are surging. According to industry reports, Simmons' 'All-Season Cooling Set' saw a staggering 175% increase in sales from May 11 to 15 compared to the previous week. The product features a combination of twill cooling material and 80-count bio-washed cotton, allowing for dual-sided use depending on the season or indoor temperature. Similarly, Ace Bed reported a 161.1% rise in sales of its cooling products during the same period. Utilizing Kolon’s high-performance cooling yarn 'FORPE,' these products effectively lower surface temperature by approximately 6.3 degrees upon contact. Notably, the demand for super single (SS) sizes has surged, accounting for 44.4% of sales, driven by trends in single-person households and individual room cooling. Boiler manufacturer Kyungdong Navien is also entering the market with its new 'Four Seasons Sleep Mat.' Both models, 'Air' and 'Pro,' feature a 'Cool Mode' that lowers the internal temperature of the mat during summer. The 'Four Seasons Sleep Mat Air' utilizes a fan from Sleep Hub to draw in and cool indoor air from air conditioning, circulating it to lower the water temperature. The higher-end 'Four Seasons Sleep Mat Pro' employs advanced semiconductor cooling technology known as the 'Peltier method,' which cools the water passing through the Sleep Hub without the need for air conditioning, circulating it throughout the mat. Industry experts anticipate that competition in cooling materials among bedding and textile companies will intensify, especially in light of the early heat and rising electricity costs. A bedding industry representative stated, "As consumer trends increasingly prioritize sleep quality, interest in cooling bedding during the summer continues to grow. We aim to provide products that help consumers quickly dissipate body heat and offer a refreshing feel." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 15:42:00
  • Korea Technology Guarantee Fund Partners with Shinhyup Bank to Support Future Strategic Industries
    Korea Technology Guarantee Fund Partners with Shinhyup Bank to Support Future Strategic Industries The Korea Technology Guarantee Fund has announced a partnership with Shinhyup Bank to provide financial support for the development of future strategic industries. On June 2, the Technology Guarantee Fund signed a memorandum of understanding with Shinhyup Bank for productive financial support aimed at fostering future strategic industries. This agreement is designed to enhance access to financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the technology sector and to strengthen the financial support system that underpins innovative growth. Under the agreement, the Technology Guarantee Fund will provide a special guarantee of 84 billion won, funded by a special contribution of 4.2 billion won from Shinhyup Bank. Eligible companies can receive up to 3 billion won in working capital, along with preferential benefits such as an increased guarantee ratio (from 85% to 100% for three years) and a reduction in guarantee fees (by 0.2 percentage points for three years). The support is targeted at new technology businesses that meet the Technology Guarantee Fund's criteria, specifically those operating in six key strategic industries: artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, cultural content, defense, energy, and advanced manufacturing. Both organizations aim to reduce the financial burden on SMEs in future strategic industries and continue their collaboration to support the scaling up of technology companies and securing future growth drivers. Previously, the Technology Guarantee Fund signed an agreement with Nonghyup Bank to provide a total of 317 billion won in guarantees to support the development of future strategic industries and assist companies affected by the Middle East crisis. Kim Jong-ho, chairman of the Technology Guarantee Fund, stated, "We will continue to expand our cooperation with financial institutions to strengthen productive finance and actively support the innovative growth of technology companies."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-06-02 13:00:00
  • Daiso Dominates Summer Sports and Running Market with Surge in Sales
    Daiso Dominates Summer Sports and Running Market with Surge in Sales 아성다이소가 압도적 가격 경쟁력과 기능성을 앞세워 여름철 스포츠·러닝 시장을 빠르게 장악하고 있다. 러닝과 같은 일상 스포츠족을 겨냥해 출시한 기능성 의류들이 입소문을 타면서 온·오프라인 매장마다 품절 행진이 이어지는 모습이다. According to industry reports, Daiso's sportswear sales surged nearly 200% from January to April this year compared to the same period last year. Sales of sports accessories, including sports bands, arm bands, and leisure towels, also increased by about 40%, indicating robust growth across the lifestyle sports sector. This explosive growth is largely attributed to a collaboration with the sports brand HEAD. Daiso recently launched over 60 types of running apparel and gear, including running vests, caps, socks, mesh T-shirts, lightweight shorts, and windbreakers. Notably, the running vest, considered essential for nighttime runners, quickly sold out across the country after its release, generating significant buzz. On Daiso's online store, the number of customers signing up for restock notifications for this product exceeded 13,000. The primary reason sports enthusiasts are flocking to Daiso is its low prices. Functional windbreakers and shorts are priced at around $5, caps at $3, and sports socks at $2. Even when purchasing a complete set of clothing, including tops, bottoms, hats, socks, and UV-blocking sunglasses, the total cost remains under $20, which is less than the price of a single T-shirt from typical sports brands. Many customers have noted that the quality is comparable to that of established specialty products. Additionally, Daiso is diversifying its offerings by expanding into various sports categories, including swimming, yoga, home training, golf, tennis, and hiking. The demand for UV protection products, essential for outdoor summer sports, has also seen a seasonal boost. From May 1 to 28, Daiso's sun care product sales nearly doubled compared to the same period last year. During the same timeframe, sales of hats increased by about 90%, and fashion accessories like arm sleeves and parasols saw a growth rate of approximately 50%. Daiso's emergence as a go-to destination for summer sports and beauty products can be attributed to its one-stop shopping experience. The popularity of seasonal beauty items, such as sunscreen and tinted moisturizers, has been bolstered by a strategic placement of functional apparel and fashion accessories, driving sales upward. This approach effectively captures the demand for outdoor sports and leisure activities in one location. An industry insider stated, "As the recession deepens, budget-conscious sports enthusiasts are thrilled with Daiso's high-quality, ultra-low-cost strategy. Daiso's uniform pricing model is rapidly penetrating markets previously dominated by established specialty brands in functional fashion and summer beauty products." 2026-05-31 15:42:00