Korea University Business School’s Startup Research Institute joins Seoul RISE Campus Town Project—
Launching a Program to Foster AI and Deep Tech Startup Talent 

Korea University has been selected as a participant in the Seoul Metropolitan Government’s “Campus Town Project,” under the RISE (Regionally Innovative & Specialized Education) initiative. With this selection, the university has been recognized for its capacity as a regional innovation hub focused on youth entrepreneurship. The Business School’s Startup Research Institute will take a leading role by launching specialized programs in AI and deep tech. 

Based on a startup-oriented campus town model, the Seoul Campus Town Project aims to promote youth entrepreneurship, create jobs, and support the commercialization of university-owned technologies. Selected universities will receive funding for an initial two-year period (January 2026 – February 2028), with a possible extension of up to four years depending on a midterm evaluation. 

In this project, the Business School’s Startup Research Institute has identified AI-based talent development and technology startup support as key focus areas, and has submitted a proposal outlining three core programs. Among them, the AI Deep Tech Startup Practical Training Program is designed to provide a structured learning experience for early-stage entrepreneurs and students, covering everything from the fundamentals of AI to practical applications. It is expected to make a meaningful contribution to fostering a vibrant youth entrepreneurship ecosystem. 

Joon Ho Hwang, Director of the Startup Research Institute, stated, “Our participation in the Campus Town Project demonstrates the university’s startup capabilities and innovation potential in AI,” adding, “We will continue to nurture deep tech-driven entrepreneurial talent and position ourselves as a startup hub that grows hand in hand with the local community.”