Korea Startup Forum (hereinafter referred to as COSPO) announced that it has concluded the 'Business Trip in Tokyo' program held in Tokyo, Japan for three days from the 7th to the 9th. This event was held as part of the global linkage activities of 'COMEUP 2025' and followed the 'Business Trip in Shanghai' held in April.
'Business Trip in Tokyo' is a practical exchange program that selects domestic startups that wish to enter the Japanese market, and includes exploration of the local startup ecosystem, participation in startup events, IR pitching, and networking with investors. A total of 9 participating startups are active in various fields such as legal tech, edutech, healthcare, and tourism.
On the first day, the 'Tokyo Unicorn Summit 2025' took place. Held at Azabudai Hills, the summit was designed as a place for Asian unicorn startup representatives and officials to discuss global startup trends and business opportunities.
The next day, a tour of startup support organizations and local companies in Tokyo was held. COSPO visited KOTRA Tokyo IT Center, Channel Corporation Japan Branch, and accelerator 01Booster with participating companies to increase understanding of the local ecosystem.
A program that particularly drew attention was the 'Korea-Japan Innovators Night'. This event, co-hosted by KOSPO, Shinhan Financial Group, and Kiraboshi Bank, was attended by many Japanese investors and executives from large corporations, and participating startups introduced their capabilities through IR pitching and technology demonstrations. The event was held at 'LiSH', a co-working space operated by JR East Japan Railway Company.
At this event, five startups including White Cube, Book I-Piece, BHSN, Hydrochem, and Tomato Studio directly conducted IR pitching, while Open Survey, Adriel, Safedoc, and Y Tour & Golf demonstrated their technologies through exhibition booths. With about 80 people in attendance, there was an active response from local investors. KOSPO and its partner organizations supported the on-site presentations and exchanges of participating companies so that they could lead to actual partnerships.
The final day included a visit to the Sushi Tech exhibition, one of Tokyo’s largest startup events, and networking with local stakeholders. Participating companies had the opportunity to concretize their market entry strategies through interactions with senior founders and accelerators who have experience entering the Japanese market.
A COSPO official said, “This Tokyo program went beyond a simple overseas tour and became a stepping stone for seeking practical exchanges and market entry,” adding, “It is evaluated as a meaningful opportunity to expand the global presence of Korean startups.”
Han Sang-woo, Chairman of COSPO, said, “The startup ecosystems of Korea and Japan each have different strengths, so we will be able to maximize synergy through exchanges and cooperation between the two countries,” and added, “We will continue to work to create an innovation ecosystem with global competitiveness.”
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