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  • Kling AI Launches NextGen Awards in Seoul to Support Young Creators
    Kling AI Launches NextGen Awards in Seoul to Support Young Creators Chinese video generation AI platform Kling AI is expanding its efforts to discover the next generation of video creators and enhance industry collaboration from its base in South Korea. The company aims to build an AI video creation ecosystem that connects young creators with the broadcasting and film production sectors through university competitions and a global 4K video contest.At the 'NextGen Campus, 4K Visions: Kling AI NextGen Awards Ceremony' held on July 7 at the Seoul Film Center, Zeng Yushen, the global operations head of Kling AI, stated, "Presenting the results of the competitions today signifies that Kling AI's global ecosystem for emerging creators has officially entered a new stage of development. We will go beyond just supporting competitions to incubate outstanding creators in the long term and further enhance the global youth creator framework."Zeng emphasized the role of AI video technology, saying, "Technology should not remain as cold code; it must serve as a medium that helps creative ideas come to life. We need to lower the technical barriers of traditional video production so that all free and imaginative ideas can be transformed into professional videos."Kling AI, a video generation platform under the Chinese short-form platform Kuaishou, has rapidly expanded its global creator base since its launch in June 2024. In April, it introduced a native 4K mode in its 'Kling Video 3.0' series, allowing direct output of 4K quality during the creation stage. This development has enabled Kling AI to broaden the application of AI video production into industries such as broadcasting, film, and advertising.The awards ceremony was organized to share the results of three competitions: the 'NextGen 2026 Korea University Creative Challenge,' the 'Campus AIGC Creation Contest' for Chinese university students, and the '4K Short Film Creative Contest' for global creators. According to the company, approximately 9,000 creators from major universities in Korea and China participated, submitting over 12,700 works. After a review process, 31 outstanding entries were selected.The Korean competition was conducted by Kling AI in collaboration with the Korean Media Policy Association and MBC C&I, targeting major universities such as Korea University, Konkuk University, and Chung-Ang University. A total of 4,215 applicants submitted 1,084 works from 60 universities. During the competition period, workshops on generative AI video production were also held at universities including Hongik University, Dong Seoul University, Korea University, Chung-Ang University, and Inha University.Zeng expressed his admiration for the submitted works, stating, "I was deeply impressed by the clear creativity and solid production quality of the young creators. The works contained not only cinema-level visual sophistication but also deep observations and reflections on the real world, infused with human warmth."He added, "The younger generation has shown not only the ability to handle advanced technology but also a sincere desire to express social concerns through video and respond to the questions posed by the times. This proves that AI can take root in a reality filled with human warmth."Looking ahead, Zeng stated that Kling AI aims to pursue higher industrial standards for video production beyond 4K, saying, "We will continue to support creators worldwide to produce textured, warm, and powerful video works based on efficient, free, and professional creative capabilities."Kling AI is also expanding its connections in the Korean market. According to the company's introduction materials, Kling AI is collaborating with Studio Metak and Mateo AI Studio under MBC C&I in the field of AI video content. The platform has been utilized in various productions, including the drama 'My Precious Star,' the reality show 'Divorced Singles 7 Australia Edition,' and KBS's historical documentary 'History Special.'The event was attended by Zeng, Hwang Seon-sook, director of MBC C&I, filmmaker Min Kyudong, Cine21 editor Song Kyung-won, Inha University professor Ha Ju-yong, Dong Seoul University professor Lee Seung-hyun, and Korea University professor Lee Heon-yul, among others from the Korean film and academic community. From the Chinese side, Professor Chen Yi, Professor Chong Fangjun, and Kling AI super creator Han Qing were also present.Hwang Seon-sook remarked, "AI is a powerful tool, but it is the creator's emotion and imagination that complete it as art. The fact that creators from Korea and China expressed their unique worlds through the same technology demonstrates the potential of creation in the AI era."Filmmaker Min Kyudong noted, "In my 30 years of making films, while camera and editing methods have continually changed, the human eye's perspective on the world has not. AI is not a threat to replace art but a new tool to carry it further." 2026-07-07 16:56:00
  • Minimum Wage Gap Narrows to 1,060 Won Amid Labor Disputes
    Minimum Wage Gap Narrows to 1,060 Won Amid Labor Disputes As discussions continue over next year's minimum wage, the gap between labor and management has narrowed to 1,060 won.The Minimum Wage Commission held its 12th plenary meeting on July 7 at the Government Sejong Complex to discuss the minimum wage level. On this day, labor representatives proposed a revised minimum wage of 11,500 won per hour, while management suggested 10,440 won.Compared to the fourth revised proposal presented on July 2, labor reduced its request by 200 won, while management increased its offer by 30 won. Consequently, the gap between the two sides decreased from 1,290 won to 1,060 won.From the outset of the meeting, representatives from both sides engaged in a tense exchange. Ryu Gi-jeong, Executive Vice President of the Korea Employers Federation, stated, "Over the past decade, the minimum wage has increased by 79.7%, while the consumer price index has risen by only 22.9%. This means the minimum wage has risen approximately 3.5% faster than inflation. Recent price trends must also be viewed from the perspective of business costs. Small and medium-sized enterprises and small business owners are struggling to cope with rising costs amid intensified competition and economic downturns."Yang Ok-seok, head of the Human Resources Policy Division at the Korea Federation of Small and Medium Businesses, emphasized, "Although the legal deadline for minimum wage deliberations has passed, we cannot allow a decision to be made under time pressure that small and medium-sized enterprises cannot bear. An increase in the minimum wage could distort the wage structure in the labor market, weaken the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises, lead to an increase in part-time work under 15 hours, and ultimately result in job losses, causing structural harm to our entire industry."In contrast, labor representatives stressed the need to address income inequality. Ryu Gi-seop, Secretary General of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, remarked, "While large semiconductor companies are thriving, the lower tiers of the labor market are experiencing deepening wage gaps and income inequality, threatening their very livelihoods. The minimum wage will significantly impact not only workers' livelihoods but also the pace of domestic recovery. Support for small and micro businesses must accompany this effort to stimulate domestic demand."Im Ji-sun, Deputy Secretary General of the Korean Public Service and Transport Workers' Union, criticized the commission, stating, "The commission is shifting all economic responsibilities, including median wages, payment capacity, job issues, and the low incomes of self-employed individuals, onto minimum wage workers. The public interest committee's call to 'narrow the gap' seems to pressure only the labor side, undermining the value of low-wage workers and pushing them into isolated lives."Seong Jae-min, a member of the public interest committee and a researcher at the Korea Labor Institute, noted, "Both sides have likely shared their positions and reasoning sufficiently. It is important to examine the significance of the minimum wage level in the current economic labor market context in a balanced manner. Now is the time to translate the discussions into concrete figures."The labor and management sides are expected to continue deliberations in the plenary meeting to further narrow the minimum wage gap. If they fail to significantly reduce their differences, the public interest committee may propose a 'facilitation range' with upper and lower limits to encourage agreement or a vote within that range.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-07 16:52:00
  • LISENNE Takes on Controversy with Pretty Girl Remake
    LISENNE Takes on Controversy with 'Pretty Girl' Remake The girl group LISENNE is once again in the spotlight as they prepare to release a remake of KARA's hit song "Pretty Girl." The original lyrics, which include the phrase "No, No, No," have sparked renewed interest online, with some commentators suggesting that the group is confronting the ongoing controversy head-on.LISENNE is set to unveil their version of KARA's title track from the group's second studio album on July 8.Originally released in 2008, "Pretty Girl" became a defining anthem for KARA, featuring lyrics like "No, No, No, No" and "I like me just the way I am." The song was celebrated as a confidence-boosting anthem and is regarded as a classic hit across generations.However, the timing of LISENNE's remake coincides with a recent controversy surrounding member Woni's use of the Gyeongsang dialect expression "Musubno," which has sparked political debate. The repeated phrase "No, No, No" in the original lyrics has also drawn attention in this context.Notably, the positive messages in the original song, such as "walking confidently anywhere" and "I like me just the way I am," have been highlighted, with some online reactions describing the group's approach as a proper confrontation of the controversy.One netizen commented, "This project was prepared without any relation to the controversy, but the timing is impeccable. The confident message of 'Pretty Girl' resonates with the current situation." Other reactions included remarks like, "The phrase 'No, No, No' stands out more now," and "It feels almost intentional, even if it’s coincidental. Ultimately, it seems to be the most assertive response, and the song will likely become the main topic rather than the controversy."The controversy began when Woni casually used the Gyeongsang dialect expression "Musubno" in content. A PD from Gyeongnam MBC expressed disappointment on social media regarding the use of the "-no" expression, which led to the escalation of the debate. Following this, explanations from the Dong-A University Language Culture Institute clarified that "-no" is used in Gyeongsang dialect not only in questions but also in exclamations and monologues. The debate further intensified as political figures, including former Justice Minister Cho Kuk and Lee Jun-seok, leader of the Reform Party, shared opposing views on social media.As the discussion continues, examples from MBC dramas and variety shows featuring the "-no" expression have resurfaced, further fueling the controversy.Amidst this backdrop, anticipation is growing for the release of "Pretty Girl," with fans eager to see how LISENNE will reinterpret KARA's classic hit.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-07 16:52:00
  • Na Hong-jins sci-fi thriller Hope to hit theaters next week
    Na Hong-jin's sci-fi thriller 'Hope' to hit theaters next week SEOUL, July 7 (AJP) - Director Na Hong-jin's latest film "Hope" is set to hit theaters next week, about two months after the sci-fi thriller made its world premiere at this year's Cannes Film Festival in May. Set for release on July 15, the 160-minute film starring veteran actor Hwang Jung-min along with Zo In-sung and Jung Ho-yeon revolves around a story set in a demilitarized border village where unidentified objects suddenly appear. The film also features Hollywood stars such as Alicia Vikander, Michael Fassbender and Taylor Russell. "Hope" marks Na's first feature film since his 2016 hit "The Wailing," which followed his acclaimed works "The Chaser" (2008) and "The Yellow Sea" (2010). 2026-07-07 16:47:07
  • YouTube and Community Posts Now Subject to Reporting Under New Law
    YouTube and Community Posts Now Subject to Reporting Under New Law The revised Telecommunications Act aimed at addressing online manipulated information takes effect today. Concerns have grown over the rapid spread of manipulated images, videos, and false posts through generative artificial intelligence (AI) and social media, prompting the activation of reporting and processing systems for major online platforms.Online platforms with a significant user base are now required to establish operational policies for responding to manipulated information and to manage reporting and processing procedures. Upon receiving a report, they must notify the outcome and reasons for their decision, as well as provide a process for appeals. They are also required to regularly publish transparency reports detailing their operational status.Not all internet services are subject to this law. It applies to large platform operators with an average daily user count of over one million in the three months prior to the end of the previous year. Given user numbers, major social media and community platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, X, Facebook, and DC Inside are expected to be included.However, simple expressions of opinion, criticism, or political claims are not immediately subject to regulation. Private messaging services like KakaoTalk are also exempt. The determination of whether information is manipulated will consider whether the content is false or has been altered to mislead others, whether the intent was to cause harm or gain unfair advantage, and whether it infringes on personal rights, property rights, or public interest.Actions that repeatedly distribute manipulated information for profit can now face penalties. Those who post information confirmed by a court as manipulated more than twice may be fined up to 1 billion won. Enhanced damages will also apply to larger publishers who earn advertising or sponsorship revenue, indicating that the government distinguishes between general users and larger entities.Platforms have various measures they can take. Upon receiving a report, large platforms may delete posts, block access, limit exposure, suspend or terminate accounts, restrict monetization, and halt or withdraw financial payments. However, they must inform both the reporter and the poster of the reasons for their actions and the appeal process.The government describes this system as a framework for self-regulation centered on platforms rather than direct censorship. It emphasizes that the government will not directly determine the veracity of all posts; instead, platforms will handle initial responses based on their operational policies and private fact-checking results.Users now have recourse if they disagree with a platform's actions. Reporters or posters can appeal decisions and request mediation through the Broadcasting Media Communications Review Committee's dispute resolution body, which has been expanded to a nine-member panel to accommodate this new framework.The most significant issue remains the boundary between false information and opinion or criticism. Unlike clearly manipulated information, political claims or social issues can be subject to varying interpretations. In such cases, similar posts may receive different treatments based on each platform's judgment criteria.Concerns have also been raised about indiscriminate reporting. If a particular group systematically reports posts they disagree with, platforms may excessively delete or limit exposure to avoid legal liability. This is especially concerning for contentious topics such as elections, politics, gender, healthcare, and disasters, where responses to manipulated information could lead to debates over freedom of expression.Platforms now face increased burdens, as they must implement new procedures for fact-checking, report processing, appeal responses, and transparency reporting. The neutrality and transparency of fact-checking organizations, along with the fairness of each platform's operational policies, are seen as key factors for the successful implementation of this system.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-07 16:40:00
  • Everlands Twin Pandas Celebrate Third Birthday in Korea
    Everland's Twin Pandas Celebrate Third Birthday in Korea The twin pandas at Everland's Panda World, Lui Bao and Hui Bao, celebrated their third birthday on July 7. Due to international agreements, this birthday is expected to be the last one the sisters will spend in Korea before returning to China before they turn four.Everland, operated by Samsung C&T's resort division, announced that a special birthday party was held at the panda second house on the morning of July 7. The event was attended by panda keepers, including Kang Cheol-won and Song Young-kwan, along with over 30 fans who were invited after competing in a lottery with odds of 400 to 1.The keepers prepared a large bamboo birthday cake for the twin sisters. Notably, Keeper Song crafted a wooden bench for the sisters to sit side by side, adding a personal touch to the celebration.Lui Bao and Hui Bao were born on July 7, 2023, weighing 180 grams and 140 grams, respectively. They have since grown to weigh over 80 kilograms, thriving under care.However, the time to see the grown twin sisters in Korea is now limited to about a year. An international agreement mandates that all giant pandas born worldwide must return to China before they reach breeding age at four years old. Their older sister, Fu Bao, also left for the Wolong Giant Panda Research Center in Sichuan, China, before turning four in April 2024.An Everland representative stated, "We will closely monitor the health of Lui Bao and Hui Bao and coordinate with the Chinese side to ensure a safe move at the most appropriate time."As the farewell approaches, Everland has been running the 'Lui & Hui's Journey Across Korea' project since June 19. Each month, a different region is selected to showcase local attractions, festivals, and specialties, creating limited-edition merchandise tied to the pandas' travel stories. Customers can visit these regions to collect stamps and enjoy the experience of traveling across the country.The tour will begin in Jeolla Province and continue through Chungcheong Province, Jeju Island, Gyeongsang Province, Gangwon Province, and Seoul & Gyeonggi Province. Collecting all regional magnets will complete a puzzle of the national map. After stamping the final location in November, visitors to Everland will receive rewards such as a 'Lui & Hui Journey Commemorative Towel' and a completion certificate based on the number of stamps collected.The stamp tour is attracting tourists across the country. The first stamp zone was set up in front of the Gochang Eupseong ticket office, and a photo zone was also installed at the Gochang Bokbunja and Watermelon Festival, which concluded on June 21, receiving a positive response.Meanwhile, a new baby panda born on June 3 is bringing additional excitement to Everland. Weighing 171 grams at birth, the youngest panda has increased its weight more than sevenfold in just over a month, growing healthily under the attentive care of its mother, Ai Bao, keepers, and experts. The growth process is being shared on Everland's and Pupa TV's YouTube channels, and the baby is already forming a fanbase with nicknames like 'Po Bao' and 'Baby Bao.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-07 16:40:00
  • Samsung Elec shines above peers with Q2, but spooks investors
    Samsung Elec shines above peers with Q2, but spooks investors SEOUL, July 07 (AJP) - Samsung Electronics on Tuesday estimated second-quarter operating profit of 89.4 trillion won ($58.4 billion) on revenue of 171 trillion won, a bar-raising figure that, instead of sparking excitement, triggered panicky profit-taking on fears the AI heyday may have peaked. The guidance beat market consensus of around 85 trillion won, while revenue slightly fell short. Compared with the previous quarter, revenue rose 27.7 percent and operating profit increased 56.2 percent. From a year earlier, revenue climbed 129.3 percent, while operating profit surged 1,810.3 percent. The tech giant, whose business spans from chips to finished appliances, has been on a record earnings streak for a third consecutive quarter, with the latest three-month performance nearly doubling its full-year earnings for 2025. Based on first-quarter results, chips are expected to have accounted for the bulk of the profit in the April-June period. Samsung discloses the breakdown when it releases its final earnings later this month. The preliminary headline figures nonetheless underscore the extraordinary profitability created by the AI memory boom, with strong demand for high-bandwidth memory (HBM), DRAM and NAND continuing to outstrip supply across the semiconductor industry. Analysts have said Samsung has been one of the biggest beneficiaries of rising memory prices and expanding AI infrastructure investment. Including the 17 trillion won in provisions for employee performance bonuses under the company's recently agreed compensation plan for its Device Solutions (DS) division, second-quarter operating profit could have neared 100 trillion won. A company official confirmed it booked around 17 trillion won as a one-time expense in the second-quarter accounts. By the headline figure, Samsung has set a new standard for itself and among its global peers. Samsung's reported operating profit also exceeded the $53.5 billion in operating income reported by Nvidia for its latest fiscal quarter ended April 26, making Samsung's latest quarterly operating profit larger than the AI chip leader's most recently reported result. Nvidia and Samsung report under different fiscal calendars, however, meaning the figures are not directly comparable. Samsung's quarterly operating profit was also substantially higher than the latest reported operating income of other major technology companies, including Alphabet ($39.7 billion) and Microsoft ($38.4 billion), underscoring the scale of the current AI-driven memory upcycle. While those companies benefit primarily from cloud computing, software and AI services, Samsung's earnings have been propelled by a sharp rise in memory chip prices amid tight global supply. Although AI chip demand is projected to remain strong at least through next year, investors feared they may have already seen the earnings peak, sending the stock down nearly 7 percent to close below the 300,000-won mark Tuesday. 2026-07-07 16:39:33
  • FX Dealers Assess 24-Hour Forex Market Launch
    FX Dealers Assess 24-Hour Forex Market Launch The domestic won-dollar forex market has entered a 24-hour trading system for the first time in history, launching without significant disruption. Current FX dealers report that while trading volume during the early morning hours remains limited, the initial shock of opening has lessened, and exchange rate volatility is expected to decrease.On July 7, a forex dealer at a major bank told Aju Economy in an interview, "The closing price of the offshore non-deliverable forward (NDF) last night and the opening price in the domestic market at 6 a.m. showed almost no difference," adding, "The effect of reduced volatility at the opening was noticeable."He began his shift at 6 a.m. that day, taking over from the overnight team. Despite overseas events such as the release of the U.S. services purchasing managers' index (PMI), there was no significant shock to the market. He noted, "There was more trading in the regional spot market than expected, and the volume of trades covered by NDF has decreased significantly. Although trading was not very active due to the initial implementation of the system, the market moved calmly."Since July 6, the domestic won-dollar forex market has transitioned to a 24-hour system, operating from 6 a.m. on Monday to 6 a.m. on Saturday, excluding weekends and January 1. This change moves away from the previous system that operated primarily from 9 a.m., aligning trading conditions with global forex market trends.Lee Seok-jin, a forex dealer at Hana Bank who worked the 6 a.m. shift on the first trading day, stated, "Previously, it was routine to check the NDF market flow in preparation for the 9 a.m. opening, but now we are actually conducting spot forex trading from 6 a.m., which has changed our work approach entirely."Trading between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m., which attracted significant interest from market participants, proceeded in a relatively calm atmosphere. The dealer remarked, "On the first day, participants were more inclined to observe the market rather than actively trade. Although the trading volume was not high, the bids were more tightly formed than expected, indicating that market functions were operating stably."He added, "While it may not be easy to see a significant increase in trading volume immediately, as participation from foreign investors and import-export companies gradually expands, liquidity will naturally increase, especially with the establishment of the won payment system in the second half of the year."The market is also anticipating changes in exchange rate movements. Previously, events occurring in overseas financial markets, such as New York, would be reflected all at once at the domestic market's opening at 9 a.m., often leading to increased volatility right after opening. However, with trading now continuing from 6 a.m., materials that arise overnight are expected to be reflected in prices sequentially, increasing the likelihood of continuous exchange rate movements.The dealer explained, "In the past, significant events in the U.S. overnight would often cause the exchange rate to spike or plummet right at the 9 a.m. opening. Now, with trading occurring in the early morning, the exchange rate is likely to move more continuously, and the initial volatility at opening may gradually ease."However, he anticipates that an adjustment period for the market is inevitable. He stated, "Market participants are still in the process of adapting to the new trading hours, and the true benefits of a 24-hour forex market will only be realized as trading builds up and foreign investor participation increases."Forex authorities also assessed that the market operated stably on its first trading day. A Ministry of Economy and Finance official remarked, "In the initial phase, it is more important to ensure the system is securely established than to increase trading volume, and we expect market participation to gradually expand on a stable operational foundation."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-07 16:36:00
  • Financial Supervisory Service Launches Venture Capital Investment Platform with Naver Pay
    Financial Supervisory Service Launches Venture Capital Investment Platform with Naver Pay The Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) has officially launched a 'Venture Capital Investment Platform' in collaboration with Naver Pay to reduce information asymmetry in the venture capital market. The initiative aims to support the activation of venture investments through AI-driven corporate information searches and investment information sharing.During the launch event for the 'Npay Venture Capital Investment Platform' held at Naver 1784 in Seoul, FSS Chairman Lee Chan-jin expressed hope that the platform would successfully establish itself in the venture capital market and contribute to productive finance and the activation of venture capital supply. He also thanked Naver Pay for its participation in the platform's development.This platform is a joint effort between the FSS and Naver Pay, designed to alleviate information asymmetry in the venture capital market and expand information sharing between investors and startups. Naver Pay is responsible for the platform's construction and operation, while the FSS and the Ministry of SMEs and Startups will support connections with securities firms, venture companies, and related organizations.The platform features customized functions for different users.Securities firms can utilize AI-based corporate information summaries and searches, funding announcements, and a unified fund proposal verification feature at all stages of investment. After investing, they will also have access to real-time investment status by fund, requests for sales reports from venture companies, and investment company history management functions.Venture capital firms and new technology financing companies can use standardized funding proposal writing tools and receive AI-based customized alerts when IR information for companies in their areas of interest is registered.Small and venture businesses can create corporate profiles based on IR materials and engage in ongoing investment attraction activities through the platform. Companies registered on the platform will also have their overviews displayed in Naver search results. However, the service is available only to institutional professional investors, excluding individual investors.In his remarks, Chairman Lee emphasized the importance of resolving information asymmetry among market participants to enhance the efficiency of capital intermediation, stating, "For funds to be smoothly supplied to promising companies, it is crucial to address information asymmetry among market participants." He expressed hope that the platform would operate sustainably based on private sector efficiency.He further urged securities firms and other capital providers to play an active role in the initial phase, enhancing their evaluation capabilities to discover promising companies and ensuring that small and venture businesses provide accurate and reliable corporate information to facilitate a sustainable investment cycle.Naver Pay expressed its commitment to building a trustworthy investment environment for companies and investors through the platform, contributing to the development of the domestic venture capital market. The financial investment industry and related associations also expressed optimism that the platform would enhance the convenience of investment and funding, indicating their willingness to actively participate in pilot operations.Naver Pay plans to conduct a three-month pilot operation following the platform's launch, with immediate improvements to enhance its completeness. The FSS and the Ministry of SMEs and Startups will continue to communicate with the industry to support the platform's establishment.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-07 16:32:00
  • New Venture Capital Investment Platform Launched by Financial Supervisory Service and Naver Pay
    New Venture Capital Investment Platform Launched by Financial Supervisory Service and Naver Pay 금융감독원이 민간 플랫폼을 활용한 모험자본 공급 확대에 나섰다. 네이버페이가 구축·운영하는 'Npay 스타트업'을 통해 스타트업과 투자자를 연결하고 투자 절차를 표준화한다는 계획이다. 금융감독원은 7일 경기 성남시 네이버 1784에서 네이버페이와 공동 추진한 '모험자본 투자 플랫폼' 출범식을 열고 플랫폼 서비스인 'Npay 스타트업'의 3개월 시범 운영을 시작했다고 밝혔다. 이날 출범식에는 이찬진 금융감독원장과 박상진 네이버페이 대표를 비롯해 금융투자협회, 여신금융협회, 한국벤처캐피탈협회, 벤처기업협회 등이 참석했다. 모험자본 투자 플랫폼은 증권사 등 출자사와 VC(벤처캐피탈)·신기사(신기술사업금융회사), 스타트업·벤처기업을 하나의 플랫폼에서 연결하는 서비스다. 투자 대상 발굴 과정의 정보 비대칭을 줄이고 투자 검토와 자금 조달 절차를 표준화해 모험자본 시장의 효율성을 높이는 것을 목표로 한다. 플랫폼에서는 출자사가 AI 기반 벤처기업 검색과 투자 정보 조회, 표준화된 출자 제안서를 활용해 운용사를 비교·평가할 수 있다. VC와 신기사는 정형화된 제안서를 활용해 출자 공고에 참여하고 AI 기반 맞춤형 기업 추천 서비스를 받을 수 있다. 투자 유치 경험이 적은 중소·벤처기업은 'Npay 스타트업'에 IR 자료를 등록하면 AI가 자동 생성해준 기업 프로필을 통해 투자자 접점을 확대할 수 있다. 다만 기관 전문 투자자만 이용할 수 있으며 개인투자자는 참여 대상이 아니다. 이찬진 금감원장은 "모험자본 시장을 통해 조성된 자금이 유망 기업으로 원활하게 공급되려면 시장 참여자 간 정보 비대칭을 해소해 자금 중개의 효율성을 높이는 것이 중요하다"며 "이번 플랫폼이 모험자본 공급을 확대하고 금융산업과 실물경제의 동반 성장을 이끄는 모범 사례가 되길 기대한다"고 말했다. 박상진 네이버페이 대표는 "네이버 역시 회사의 혁신성과 잠재력을 믿어준 투자자가 있었기에 벤처기업에서부터 지금과 같이 성장할 수 있었다"며 "앞으로 많은 성공사례가 나올 수 있도록 적극 지원하겠다"고 말했다. * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-07-07 16:32:00