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Korea aims to support 100 defense-targeted startups by 2030

Published: 23 Feb. 2026, 15:15

This file photo shows the Ministry of SMEs and Startups [MINISTRY OF SMES AND STARTUPS]

Korea will provide support to nurture 100 defense-focused startups by 2030 in an effort to strengthen the defense industry's growth potential and better adopt cutting-edge technologies, government officials said Monday.

As part of the blueprint to foster defense startups, the government will also aim to nurture 30 venture companies capable of generating 100 billion won ($69 million) in yearly sales by 2030, according to the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) and the Ministry of SMEs and Startups.

Under the plan, the government will offer opportunities for startup companies to cooperate with military branches and existing defense contractors to lower their entry barrier into the market.

The plan also calls for supporting research and development for startups during the early stages of defense technology development, and ensuring that they take part in defense contracts on an equal footing with big corporations.

The Ministry of SMEs and Startups and DAPA plan to assess the progress of the plan through a cross-departmental oversight body to ensure its implementation.

Yonhap