Korean startup K-Work Partners Co., Ltd., which operates the comprehensive living support platform for foreigners, ‘KStart’, announced on the 24th that it has secured 800 million won (USD 552K) in seed investment from KAIST Youth Venture Investment Holdings.
KStart is an innovative platform designed to assist foreign workers and international students in Korea, offering integrated services that cover everything from pre-arrival preparation to daily life support after settling in. The platform helps foreigners adapt quickly to Korean society through various features, including nationality-based communities, a life support call center, commerce, and financial services.
Growing Need for Foreign Worker Support
Ahn Jun-hyun, Director of KAIST Venture Investment, emphasized the significance of this investment, stating, “Korea is facing an unprecedented societal challenge—a declining working-age population due to low birth rates and an aging society. As the government revises its foreign labor policies, foreign workers are becoming an essential component in Korea’s evolving economic and social structure.”
He further highlighted KStart’s unique approach, saying, “For several years, K-Start has focused on improving the domestic settlement rate from the perspective of foreigners. With its unrivaled competitiveness and accumulated expertise, we believe it will establish itself as the leading platform for foreigners in Korea.”
A Vision for Foreigners in Korea
After two years of meticulous preparation, K-Work Partners officially launched K-Start in December 2023. Currently, the platform provides essential services to long-term foreign residents, including foreign workers and international students. In 2024, K-Work Partners plans to expand its financial services, introducing prepaid cards and insurance, as well as launching employment support and Korean language education services.
Jo Seong-gon, CEO of K-Work Partners, expressed his vision for the platform, stating, “KStart will become an essential app for foreigners in Korea. Our goal is to help them live safely and conveniently while ultimately contributing to their integration into the local community.”
As Korea continues to embrace a more globalized workforce, KStart is poised to become a game-changer in providing seamless support for foreign residents.
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