UNIST announced that it has been officially selected to participate in the ‘2025 Deep Tech Specialized Startup-Centric Startup University Pilot Program (name tentative)‘ by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS) on August 14, 2025. This initiative, still in development, is designed to systematically foster technological startups with robust government support, including an allocation of KRW 1 billion until February next year.
The program emphasizes transforming cutting-edge R&D into innovative startups, specifically focusing on deep tech companies that possess core technologies. UNIST will utilize this funding to nurture startups founded by its members, thereby strengthening the regional innovation ecosystem.
Deep tech startups, characterized by their reliance on advanced R&D-derived technologies to address complex industrial challenges, are recognized as key players in transforming industries. The initiative aims to expand the local industrial landscape by integrating technological entrepreneurship into existing manufacturing sectors, leveraging UNIST’s world-class research infrastructure and talent pool as vital regional assets. The ultimate goal is to elevate both the quality and scale of startup ventures.
Additionally, the program seeks to establish a co-growth model in partnership with Ulsan Metropolitan City, fostering mutually beneficial development between traditional manufacturing enterprises and deep tech startups. UNIST will also serve as a strategic hub within the ‘Haeoreum Alliance Tech Startup Belt,’ connecting Pohang and Gyeongju and reinforcing the broader regional startup network.
Chong Rae Park, President of UNIST, stated, “We are dedicated to creating a startup platform that directly links our technological achievements and research outputs with industry needs.” He further added, “Our vision is to position UNIST as a leading hub for deep tech innovation in Korea.”
A representative from Ulsan City commented, “This selection marks a pivotal moment for Ulsan’s evolution into a technology-driven startup city. We are committed to providing tailored support to help local deep tech companies grow into global unicorns.”
Meanwhile, Ulsan is accelerating its transformation from an industrial powerhouse to an AI innovation hub, especially following recent investments in a 7 trillion KRW AI data center by SK and Amazon Web Services (AWS), further cementing the region’s position at the forefront of technological advancement.
