KSD runs startup accelerator program to offer mentoring, investment opportunities

Korea Securities Depository (KSD) headquarters in Yeouido, Seoul. Courtesy of KSD

The Korea Securities Depository (KSD) is expanding its “K-Camp,” a startup accelerator program, in a move to promote balanced growth of the startup ecosystem across the country, the stock and bonds deposit service provider said Sunday.

The program launched in 2019 seeks to provide mentorship and investment opportunities to budding startups located outside Seoul and Gyeonggi Province.

It has created jobs and attracted investment, establishing itself as a model for sustainable startup development — one that balances capital mobilization, talent distribution and balanced regional economic growth, according to the KSD.

"K-Camp's role will be expanded to identifying and fostering innovation-driven industry players. Its mission is to address the longstanding imbalance in Seoul-centralized startup investment landscape," the company said.

It operates in five regions — Daejeon, Gwangju, Daegu, Gangwon Province and Jeju Island.

Budding startups founded within the past six years are provided with tailored mentoring, investment matchmaking and post-program assistance.

Over 308 startups have completed the program between 2020 and this year. Over the period, they created a combined 813 jobs, securing nearly 119 billion won ($83 milllion) in investments.

This year, the program participants reported a combined revenue growth of 14.15 billion won, inking 85 strategic partnerships, including research and development collaborations and funding deals.

The participants will also be matched for further growth, with assistance from Korea Development Bank (KDB) and a venture capital firm that operates KSD funds.

“The program will continue to promote inclusive growth, advancing broader environmental, social and corporate governance principles,” the KSD said. "It will also help channel investment capital into promising non-Seoul startups."

According to a survey by the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry, nearly 40 percent of the country’s venture companies were located outside Seoul and Gyeonggi Province between 2013 and 2023.

However, only 20 percent of venture capital flowed into these geographically disadvantaged areas.