3 Tips For Korean Startups To Thrive In France

Co-president Bosun Kim discussing the mission of French Tech Community Seoul.

Yesterday, PowerPT went to an event held by French Tech Community Seoul to celebrate the first Korean presence at French startup conference Vivatech. PowerPT helps startups project their mission globally and commends the effort to bridge the gap between the Korean and French startup scenes. Here are some tips for Korean startups wanting to expand into France (and beyond) from panelist Jinho Bae:

• France is becoming more open to foreign startups. Bae mentioned that he has seen France become more friendly to foreign startups in the last few years. While there are still obstacles, he believed that there was room for Korean startups in the French market.
• Korean startups can’t be passive. Despite the French market warming up to foreign startups, Bae said that Korean startups still have to actively engage with French investors and customers. Cultural differences still remain between Korea and France and Korean startups should be prepared to learn how to navigate another market.
• Paris isn’t the only place you can (or should) go. Bae suggested that Korean startups should see Paris as a stepping stone to the rest of Europe. Big tech conferences in Paris, such as Vivatech, are a chance to network with investors and companies from all over Europe and the world.

PowerPT guides startups through the pitching process to reach global audiences through our program Podium Star. Register to attend Podium Star (July 24th) here.