My name is Issa, and I’ve been living in Korea for the past two years. I’m currently a student at Sogang University, majoring in both Business Administration and Biology. Alongside my studies, I’m actively working on my own startup and involved in several business ventures. My journey through Korea’s startup and business communities has been both challenging and rewarding, and I believe that sharing my experiences can be uniquely valuable for both foreigners and Koreans alike.

Startup and Business Communities in Korea

When I first arrived in Korea, I quickly realized that the country has a thriving and welcoming startup ecosystem, especially for foreigners. One of the most helpful resources I found was a Kakao group chat called “Foreign Entrepreneurs in Korea,” which boasts over 850 members. This group serves as a vibrant hub for exchanging ideas, offering advice, and creating opportunities for collaboration.

Another incredible resource is the Global Startup Center. They organize a variety of events, including networking sessions, information seminars, mentoring and coaching programs, and even free Korean language courses once a week. What sets them apart is the amount of value they provide to foreigners—free co-working spaces, free meals during events, and access to high-quality mentors. These are opportunities that are hard to come by elsewhere, and I’ve personally benefited immensely from their support.

Additionally, there’s the OASIS Program, an educational initiative designed specifically for foreigners. This program is comprehensive, offering knowledge about starting and running a business in Korea from A to Z. Whether it's understanding the local startup ecosystem or learning how to secure funding from investors, OASIS has it all. I’ve also met like-minded individuals through this program, some of whom I’ve collaborated with on various projects. The sense of community and shared ambition makes it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to succeed in Korea’s competitive business environment.

Seizing Opportunities

What’s particularly exciting about these programs is that many of them offer competitions alongside the educational sessions. These competitions provide a great platform to pitch ideas, test your business acumen, and network with industry professionals. Korea, especially in recent years, has been investing heavily in its startup and business ecosystem, with a special focus on supporting foreign entrepreneurs.

Personally, I’ve had the privilege of traveling to countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, as well as twice to Jeju Island, fully funded through startup pitch and business competitions. These opportunities not only allowed me to showcase my ideas on an international stage but also opened doors to further opportunities and collaborations. The Korean government’s investment in these initiatives is remarkable, and it’s something foreigners in Korea should actively pursue. By participating and succeeding in these programs, we can express our gratitude and contribute to the growth of this vibrant ecosystem.