LAS VEGAS - January 7, 2026 - On the eve of the world’s most influential tech event, CES 2026, the Korea Institute of Startup and Entrepreneurship Development (KISED) successfully hosted ‘K-Startup Night’ at the Treasure Island Hotel in Las Vegas. This premier networking event brought together approximately 200 key stakeholders, including South Korean government officials, leading entrepreneurs, global venture capitalists, and international media, to foster strategic partnerships before the official exhibition floors opened.
The evening featured a high-profile assembly of dignitaries, including Roh Yong-seok, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS); Stavros Anthony, Lieutenant Governor of Nevada; and Yoo Jong-pil, President of KISED. In a congratulatory keynote, Daniel Montano, Chairman of the Western US Investors Association, emphasized the critical necessity of global innovation and cross-border startup collaboration in today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape.
“By hosting this networking session on the eve of CES, we have created a seamless bridge between initial relationship building and the official exhibition,” said Yoo Jong-pil, President of KISED. “We are committed to ensuring that the connections made tonight translate into substantive business discussions and long-term partnerships throughout the duration of CES 2026.”
A centerpiece of the event was an insightful panel discussion featuring Jung Ji-hoon, Partner at A2G Capital, and Son Jae-kwon, CEO of The Miilk. The session provided in-depth insights into the global competitiveness of the Korean startup ecosystem and outlined actionable strategies for international market expansion from the perspectives of global investors and media.
“K-Startup Night offered an unparalleled window into the sophistication of Korea's startup economy,” noted several international partners. The event showcased innovative startups specializing in CES 2026’s core themes, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Mobility, Energy, and Smart Solutions. Among the participants were 11 startups recognized with CES Innovation Awards, including three prestigious 'Best of Innovation' awardees from the KISED-led K-Startup Integrated Pavilion.
As a central agency under the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, KISED provides comprehensive support for every stage of a startup’s lifecycle. Beyond outbound support, such as facilitating participation in global exhibitions like CES and connecting firms with overseas accelerators, KISED is actively expanding its ‘Inbound Program’ to attract international startups and investors to South Korea. This government-backed model of networking serves as a cornerstone of the Korean ecosystem, bridging the gap between local innovation and global capital.
Following the success of K-Startup Night, KISED will hold an official opening ceremony on January 6 at the ‘K-Startup’ Pavilion stage within Eureka Park. Global attendees can visit the K-Startup Integrated Pavilion at Eureka Park, Booths #62817, #63416, and #63600 to experience the future of Korean innovation firsthand.
#About KISED (Korea Institute of Startup and Entrepreneurship Development):
KISED is South Korea’s leading national agency dedicated to cultivating a vibrant startup ecosystem. By providing policy support, funding, and global networking opportunities, KISED empowers Korean entrepreneurs to scale globally while positioning South Korea as a premier global startup hub.
Media Contact
Company Name: KISED
Contact Person: Global Partnership Department
Email: Send Email
Country: South Korea
Website: https://www.kised.or.kr/_eng/
