Korean Startup Spacemap Wins Middle East EWC 2025

At 'BIBAN 2025', the largest startup event in the Middle East held in Saudi Arabia, South Korean startup 'Space Map' clinched victory in the global finals of the international startup competition 'EWC 2025', impressing the world with the unique technological prowess of K-startups. BIBAN 2025, held from November 5th to 8th (local time) and hosted by Saudi Arabia's Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority (Monsha'at), was a venue for global innovation exchange where startups, investors, and government agencies from over 150 countries worldwide gathered under the theme of 'Global Hub of Opportunity'. Here, Space Map showcased its 'Spatiotemporal AI Technology for Space Domain Awareness', proudly securing the final victory at EWC 2025, co-hosted by the Saudi Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority and the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN). This year, eight South Korean startups advanced to the EWC 2025 main round (TOP 100), demonstrating the power of K-innovation. The Korea Institute of Startup & Entrepreneurship Development (KISED), in collaboration with partner organizations such as the Korea SMEs and Startups Agency and Busan Technology Startup Investment Center, established the 'K-Startup Pavilion' to actively support the entry of 31 promising companies into overseas markets. Amidst diverse support including business meetings, product exhibitions and demonstrations, pitching sessions, and networking events, remarkable achievements were made, with a total of 717 consultations and 33 on-site Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) signed, establishing a bridgehead for entry into the Middle Eastern market. The success stories of companies that participated in last year's BIBAN 2024 are also continuing. Marine Innovation, which won the 'Sustainable Environment Innovation Award' at that time, expanded its business by establishing a local branch in Saudi Arabia and, recognized for its seaweed-based eco-friendly material technology, achieved the remarkable feat of being officially invited to the 21st General Conference of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), to be held from November 23rd. Yoo Jong-pil, President of the Korea Institute of Startup & Entrepreneurship Development (KISED), stated, "BIBAN 2025 was a highly significant event where K-startups confirmed the infinite possibilities of entering the Middle Eastern market," and emphasized, "Space Map's EWC victory and Marine Innovation's UNIDO invitation are achievements that clearly demonstrate the unique global competitiveness of South Korean startups." He continued, "We will further strengthen ties with overseas markets, including the Middle East, and fully support more K-startups to make significant leaps on the world stage."