2026 Early Startup Package – SM Entertainment Open Innovation Meetup CultureTech Challenge

Can a foreigner apply?

Yes, with conditions

Foreigners are not excluded, but the announcement attaches requirements — residency, a Korean entity, a visa status or a partner. Read the conditions before you spend time on this.

Open to companies that were selected for or graduated from the Early Startup Package between 2023 and 2026 (as confirmed on K-Startup or by the managing agency). Excluded: businesses in prohibited sectors (e.g., entertainment bars, gambling facilities, or any industry deemed contrary to public order); applicants or representatives with unresolved debt delinquency or national/local tax arrears (with certain exceptions for those under credit recovery programs, court rehabilitation, etc.).