Korea’s SaaS Surge: Innovation Convergence Summit Connects Startups with U.S. Public & Enterprise Leaders

Washington, D.C., June 18–19 – Korea is doubling down on its ambition to become a global SaaS powerhouse, with a delegation of its most promising software innovators set to take center stage at the Korea Innovation Convergence Summit 2025. Held at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, the two-day event is far more than a startup showcase—it’s a strategic convergence of technology, public service, and enterprise innovation.

Hosted by Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) and National IT Industry Promotion Agency (NIPA), and managed by TTA and beSUCCESS Media Group, the summit is positioned to catalyze digital transformation across borders by connecting Korea’s vetted SaaS leaders with U.S. government agencies, public-sector innovators, and enterprise tech decision-makers.

With a sharp focus on innovation convergence, the summit will spotlight major themes such as AI, digital transformation, startup ecosystem development, and smart public policy. The event will host keynote sessions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities that bring together government officials, startup founders, investors, and corporate decision-makers.

Featured Guest Speakers Include:

• Deryck Jones – Founder/CEO/CTO, Igloo Digital Marketing
  
• Kristin Oelke – CMO, Brightrose Ventures
  
• Chris Cheng – Founder, Tech Talks
  
• Gbenga Oyedele – President, Femdel LLC
  
• Martin Ezemma – Director, International Business Development, Prince George’s County EDC
  
• David Yang – Partner, Nelson Mullins

A Government-Backed Business Platform—Not Just Another Demo Day

Unlike traditional startup expos, the summit places business outcomes at its core. It’s a curated platform for collaboration—offering pre-arranged 1:1 meetings, sector-specific showcases, and real-world solution matchmaking tailored for the U.S. public and private sectors.

Participating Korean companies were handpicked by NIPA based on product maturity, customer traction, and readiness for U.S. pilot deployments. The cohort brings scalable solutions in:

• AI search and knowledge automation
  
• Smart city infrastructure
  
• Cybersecurity, DevOps, and low-code development
  
• Multilingual content and media tech
  
• Manufacturing and supply chain platforms
  

Highlights from the Summit Program

Day 1: Scaling Tech Companies in the U.S. Market

The first day offers practical insights for international growth. Keynote speaker Deryck Jones, CEO of iGloo Digital Marketing, will share lessons on scaling SaaS ventures in the U.S. Attendees will also hear from startup leaders and VC-backed marketers like Kristin Oelke of Brightrose Ventures and Chris Cheng, founder of Tech Talks, in a panel moderated by James Jung, CEO of beSUCCESS.

An official MOU signing ceremony will reinforce Korea’s commitment to long-term collaboration with U.S. stakeholders.

Day 2: Accelerating Public Sector Innovation

The second day focuses on next-generation SaaS applications in government, urban development, and digital infrastructure. Speakers include:

• Gbenga Oyedele (FEMDEL LLC) on technology-driven government transformation
  
• Martin Ezemma (U.S. Department of Commerce TFAC) on FDI and smart cities
  
• David Yang (Nelson Mullins) on legal and regulatory compliance in public procurement
  

These sessions aim to equip U.S. agencies with knowledge to navigate Korean SaaS integration—from compliance to deployment.

Korean Startups to Watch

Among the featured companies:

• Ecube Labs: Solar-powered smart waste bins deployed in 30+ U.S. cities
  
• E8: Real-time 4D CAD for large-scale manufacturing and construction
  
• Ntuple: Backend orchestration used by Korea’s leading banks
  
• TOBESOFT: Full-stack DevOps automation for enterprise IT
  
• LLOYDK: AI-powered enterprise search used by Korea’s largest airport
  
• Neutune: Real-time, AI-generated music already integrated in Hyundai vehicles
  
• TiCON System: OTT media platform for live sports and content distribution
  

Each startup is targeting U.S. partnerships for pilot programs, infrastructure deployments, and procurement channels.

Building the Bridge Between Innovation Ecosystems

This year’s summit operates under the theme “Bridging Public, Industry, and Technology”, aligning with Korea’s strategic intent to integrate its rapidly advancing SaaS ecosystem into global digital infrastructure.

With backing from MSIT and NIPA, the initiative also underscores Korea’s transition from a manufacturing-led economy to a cloud-native, innovation-driven digital leader—ready to co-create the next era of smart infrastructure and civic tech.

What Attendees Can Expect

• Early access to startup profiles
  
• Personalized matchmaking with high-potential tech partners
  
• Sector-specific deep dives into GovTech, AI, and cloud software
  
• Post-event support for follow-up and dealmaking
  
• Recognition and gifts for active partners during the Partner Award Ceremony
  

Final Word

As U.S. public agencies and enterprises seek resilient, scalable digital solutions, Korea is aiming to be a tech exporter and a strategic collaborator in solving real-world challenges. The Korea Innovation Convergence Summit 2025 is a clear signal: Korea’s SaaS innovators are not just ready—they’re already transforming global markets, and Washington is next.