The Foundation's Innovation Story: Making the Impossible Possible

Asan Nanum Foundation's 2024 Annual Report clearly demonstrates the value created by the power of consistent action rather than grand declarations. Under the vision of founder Chung Ju-yung, "A world where anything can be achieved if you believe you can," the foundation has quietly supported innovation and growth for 13 years. The foundation's core base, 'MARU,' is more than just a space; it's a vibrant hub for the startup ecosystem. Through MARU180 in 2014 and MARU360 in 2021, it has established a system where startups, venture capitalists, and accelerators are organically connected, and in 2024 alone, 129 teams moved in, creating opportunities for idea exchange and growth. Asan Nanum Foundation focuses on breaking down various boundaries in our society. 'Asan Youthpreneur' and 'Asan Teacherpreneur' programs presented new entrepreneurship to youth and teachers, broadening the horizons of possibilities. Furthermore, the 'Chung Ju-yung Startup Competition' selected and intensively nurtured 30 teams out of a competitive ratio of 47:1, supporting startup challenges in various fields such as mobility and healthcare. The 'Asan Frontier Academy' for social innovators also helps in the journey of finding a balance between social and economic value. Especially in 2024, 'entrepreneurship that considers people and the environment' stood out. Through 'Asan University,' 52 climate tech youth startup teams were discovered and provided with 360 mentoring sessions, and ESG was demonstrated not just in words but through actions, such as practicing energy conservation within MARU facilities. Global expansion is also an important challenge. By establishing 'MARU SF' as an overseas base in Silicon Valley, it supports the entry of domestic startups into the U.S. market, and through programs like 'Asan Voyager' and 'Asan Doers,' it helps young people unleash their potential on the global stage. This means building a platform that goes beyond preventing brain drain, offering broader opportunities for growth. Furthermore, through 'Asan Sanghoe,' it supports young North Korean defector entrepreneurs, leading the way in creating an inclusive startup ecosystem. For 2025, the foundation has adopted 'Frontier Entrepreneurship' as its new keyword. Based on founder Chung Ju-yung's philosophy, "If there is no path, find it; if you can't find it, create it," the 'Chung Ju-yung Startup Competition' has been reorganized with 'Frontier' as its theme, and is segmented into Global, Diversity, Climate Tech, and Pre-startup tracks, presenting the future direction of the startup ecosystem. Chung Mong-joon, Honorary Chairman of Asan Nanum Foundation, urged young people to emulate Asan's 'Frontier Entrepreneurship' and boldly challenge new areas. The foundation transparently disclosed approximately 27.1 billion KRW in operating revenue and 20.3 billion KRW in operating expenses, and has built trust by demonstrating exemplary transparent management, including receiving a perfect 3-star rating from Korea Guide Star for five consecutive years. Asan Nanum Foundation is not merely a charity, but a catalyst driving social change, quietly fulfilling its role as a 'boundary-breaker,' shattering limits and creating new possibilities. It has proven through its 2024 achievements that consistent action and concrete efforts are the power that creates true change, providing profound resonance and inspiration to our society.