13th-Gen Innovation Icons: 5 Companies Secure Up to ₩20 Billion in 3-Year Credit Guarantees

The Korea Credit Guarantee Fund (KODIT) has opened a new chapter for K-tech by selecting five innovative startups that will lead the future of South Korea as its '13th Innovation Icons'. The companies named this time were recognized for their unique technological prowess and potential in various fields such as AI, IP, semiconductors, and content. The selected 'Innovation Icon' companies are as follows: * **DaimResearch**: A leader in AI autonomous manufacturing solutions that will revolutionize efficiency in the manufacturing and logistics industries. * **MarkVision Korea**: Targeting the global market with an all-in-one generative AI-based IP platform for brand value protection. * **VoyagerX**: A developer of AI video editing software and mobile scanner services that add convenience to daily life. * **WonSemicon**: Leading the next-generation semiconductor market by developing high-speed signal transfer chips (RCD), a core component of memory semiconductors. * **Westworld**: A next-generation content production company that breaks the boundaries of K-content using real-time VFX technology. KODIT will provide full support to help these innovative startups leap to become global unicorns. The selected companies will receive robust financial benefits, including credit guarantees of up to 20 billion won over the next three years, application of the lowest guarantee fee rate (0.5%), and additional guarantee fee support through partner banks. In addition, non-financial services such as overseas expansion support, customized consulting, and public relations will be provided to lay the groundwork for their growth. Lee In-seop, CEO of MarkVision Korea, expressed his aspiration to protect brand value worldwide and achieve sustainable growth with their generative AI-based IP protection solution. Kim Chang-hyun, CEO of WonSemicon, stated that it was a valuable achievement that recognized the potential and technological prowess of the domestic semiconductor fabless industry, and pledged to move beyond being a global unicorn to enter the world market. Son Seung-hyun, CEO of Westworld, also expressed a strong will to expand the horizons of K-content and, leveraging this selection, to accelerate strategic investment and technological advancement to leap forward as a global content hub. The Korea Credit Guarantee Fund will continue to discover promising startups that are pioneering new markets based on innovative ideas and technological prowess, and will be a reliable partner to help them grow into globally competitive unicorn companies.