K-Founders Connect in Paris brought together Korean startups, public-sector representatives from France and Korea, accelerators, and key stakeholders from the European startup ecosystem to foster greater collaboration between Korea and Europe.
The event was organized by Korea’s Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS) and the Korea Institute of Startup & Entrepreneurship Development (KISED), and operated by the Korea Startup Forum.
Hance and Europe supported the event from preparation to on-site execution, including coordination with local stakeholders and event logistics.
During the forum, Hance and Europe also provided Korean–French bilingual MC support, facilitating communication between Korean and French participants and contributing to smooth interactions throughout the event.
The forum provided a platform for Korean entrepreneurs already established in Europe and those considering European expansion to exchange practical experiences, share insights, and build meaningful connections across the two ecosystems.
The event featured a diverse group of speakers, including Yoo Jong-pil, President of KISED, who presented the institutional support available to Korean startups seeking to connect with and expand into European markets.
Yoo Bumryung, CEO of Mobidays and Chair of the Global Strategy Committee of the Korea Startup Forum, introduced the Korea Startup Forum and its role in representing and connecting the voices of Korean startups, including on the international stage.
Entrepreneurs also shared first-hand experiences of building businesses in France and Europe. Dongheon Lee, CEO of Asleep, and Yu Honglim, CEO of Kimchi Château, discussed their entrepreneurial journeys and experiences in the European market.
From the European perspective, Romain Lavielle, CEO and Co-Founder of ImpactUs, shared insights into the opportunities and challenges facing startups entering the European market. Emmanuelle Bureau du Colombier, Deputy Director for International Relations at Paris-Saclay Agglomeration, also provided perspectives on the French innovation ecosystem and opportunities available to international companies.
The discussions highlighted that successful expansion into Europe requires more than simply entering a new market. Korean startups need to understand local business practices and networks, identify the right partners, adapt their commercial approach, and build long-term relationships based on trust.
The forum therefore served as an important opportunity to strengthen connections between the Korean and European startup ecosystems and to encourage greater collaboration between entrepreneurs, institutions, and ecosystem partners.