Seed Accelerator Association Opens 2nd Overseas Hub in Shanghai, China

The Korea Angel Investment Accelerator Association (KAIA) fired a powerful signal for its entry into the Chinese market by opening the ‘GLOBAL Unicorn Acceleration Lounge’ in Shanghai, China, on the 22nd. Following Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, this second overseas base is expected to become a core axis for KAIA's strategic moves on the vast stage of China. This Shanghai base was established as a dedicated space within the Shanghai E-Innovation Valley (EIV), based on Eland China's cooperation in creating a Korea-China business co-growth cluster. It is expected to serve as a practical bridgehead necessary for domestic startups, including KAIA member companies, to successfully settle and grow in the Chinese market. Along with the opening ceremony, KAIA, together with over 10 member companies such as CNT Tech, Facemakers, and Bigbang Angels, as well as the Creative Economy Innovation Center, spent three days exploring Shanghai's startup ecosystem firsthand. Participants utilized EIV's extensive network to visit 'Hema Xiansheng,' which embodies Alibaba's innovative new retail strategy, as well as major Chinese investment institutions and startup infrastructure like PNP, Bank of Communications, Tencent, and Fosun Group, gaining vivid experience of the rapidly changing local consumer market and technology startup trends. In particular, at the highlight event, the 'Korea-China Startup Investor Meetup,' numerous leading local VCs from China, including Panda VC Fund, Yield Capital, and HLC Highlight Capital, attended, engaging in in-depth discussions on global fundraising strategies, the Chinese government's investment policies, and the potential for cooperation between Korean and Chinese startup investors in an enthusiastic atmosphere. Representatives of KAIA member companies directly interacted with Chinese investors at this event to explore practical opportunities for collaboration. Jeon Hwa-sung, President of KAIA, emphasized, "The Shanghai base is more than just a space; it is the first step in realizing KAIA's global strategy in the large Chinese market," adding that KAIA will continue to strengthen practical connections and cooperation with overseas startup ecosystems. EIV also plans to further solidify its role as a key exchange platform for mutual entry and expansion of strategic partnerships between Korean and Chinese companies in the future. Starting with the opening of this Shanghai base, KAIA plans to expand its global network across Asia, including Vietnam, Japan, and Malaysia, to systematically support early-stage startups in their overseas expansion.