Settle andScale in Korea,with KSGC
Korea's flagship global inbound program designed to help global startups enter, incorporate, and scale in Korea
Application Period April 29 – June 13, 15:00 KST
One of the most
selective global
startup programs
What is KSGC?
The K-Startup Grand Challenge (KSGC) is Korea's flagship inbound program by the Ministry of SMEs & Startups, designed to help global startups enter, accelerate, and scale in the Korean market.
Why KSGC Works
Open Innovation Access
Direct connections with Korean enterprises and top business ecosystems.
Investor Connection
Access to local investors and funding opportunities to support growth.
Market Entry → Settlement
From PoC to subsidiaries to legal consultants and D-8 visa settlement support in Korea.
Powered by GCCEI Network
Leverage one of Korea's strongest startup innovation networks.
We don't simulate
the market.
We plug you into it.
What You Receive
Business Setup
Market Access
Growth & Funding
Prize Money & Commercialization Grant
Before KSGC
After KSGC
Priority Sectors 2026
We're looking for innovative startups in these high-impact fields.
AI·Big Data
AI Models & Infrastructure • Semiconductors Mobility • Quantum · Security · Networks • Robotics
Bio·Healthcare
Biomedical & Drug Development · Healthcare
Content & Culture
Media · Tech VFX · Digital Computing Creative Infrastructure · Digital Entertainment
Defense
Defense · Aerospace · Drones
Energy
Energy · Nuclear · Green Clean Energy & Sustainability
Factory
General/New Manufacturing Sensors · Processors · IoT
Program Structure
Only the best market-ready startups move forward.
July – September 2026 · Online
80 selected teams
September – December 2026 · On/offline
40 selected teams
December 2026 – June 2027 · On/offline
20 top teamsAnd we provide a dedicated program managers, a centralized help desk and access to co-working spaces in Pangyo and Gangnam throughout all phases.
Beyond the Program
We don't stop when the program ends.
The 9-month program is just the beginning. KSGC provides up to 3 years of continued support to help startups navigate post-entry challenges and scale sustainably in Korea.
Most startups fail after entering a new market.
We stay with you when it actually matters.
Who Should Apply
We are looking for startups that:
Program Details
Application Process
Application
Submit your team and business information
Evaluation
We assess your potential and program fit
Selection
Selected teams proceed to onboarding
FrequentlyAsked Questions
During evaluation, preference may be given to startups that demonstrate:
- A working product, prototype, or MVP
- Existing users, customers, or revenue
- Market validation in another country
- A clear strategy for entering the Korean market
Built Through KSGC
From early-stage to market leaders — hear from teams that made it.
“Building a super app for foreigners in Korea, integrating travel, payments, and daily services into one platform.”
“Building a super app for foreigners in Korea, integrating travel, payments, and daily services into one platform.”
“Building a super app for foreigners in Korea, integrating travel, payments, and daily services into one platform.”
“Building a super app for foreigners in Korea, integrating travel, payments, and daily services into one platform.”
“Building a super app for foreigners in Korea, integrating travel, payments, and daily services into one platform.”
“Building a super app for foreigners in Korea, integrating travel, payments, and daily services into one platform.”
“Building a super app for foreigners in Korea, integrating travel, payments, and daily services into one platform.”
“Building a super app for foreigners in Korea, integrating travel, payments, and daily services into one platform.”
“Building a super app for foreigners in Korea, integrating travel, payments, and daily services into one platform.”
Ready?
Enter Korea — and actually build something here.
Apply to KSGC and turn market entry into real growth.
Deadline: June 13, 2026 · 15:00 KST
Explore Other Programs
Not sure this is the right fit for you? Take a look at our other programs.
Founders Bridge
Connecting global founders with Korean market opportunities through tailored partnership programs.
Learn More →KSGC for Students
Pathways for international students aspiring to become entrepreneurs in Korea.
Learn More →K-Gateway Initiative
Alternative pathways for startups to enter the Korean market through regional partnerships.
Learn More →