Naver venture unit to support Korean startups in North America

Naver’s corporate venture capital unit, D2SF, plans to support Korean startups in entering the North American market.

Since its establishment in 2015, D2SF has invested in 115 startups in sectors such as AI, robotics, blockchain, and healthcare.

The venture arm focuses on early-stage companies and reports a 96% survival rate among its portfolio firms.

Notable companies in its portfolio include chipmaker FuriosaAI.

🔗 Source: The Korea Times

🧠 Food for thought

1️⃣ South Korea’s national push for global startup expansion

D2SF’s expansion to the US mirrors a broader national trend where Korean venture investors are increasingly looking outward for growth opportunities.

South Korea has launched 73 global funds totaling approximately $8.4 billion as of early 2025, including a $200 million fund specifically targeting deep tech startups in AI and robotics 1.

This push beyond domestic markets reflects a maturing ecosystem where Korean VCs are seeking higher returns abroad while creating international pathways for their portfolio companies.

Korean companies have already invested $114 billion in the US over a recent three-year period, demonstrating the scale of this cross-border business development 2.

The government is actively supporting this expansion through initiatives like the K-Global Star Program, which aims to help Korean startups connect with US markets and raise over $700 million in global investments annually 1.

2️⃣ Addressing unique challenges in US market entry

D2SF’s Silicon Valley office tackles well-documented obstacles that Korean startups face when attempting to enter the North American market.

Korean founders often struggle with specific barriers including communication challenges, cultural differences in business practices, and lack of local networks—all crucial factors for success in the US ecosystem 3.

Organizations like D2SF are filling a critical gap by providing not just capital but also localized support services, helping Korean startups navigate pitching to American investors and adapting their offerings for US consumers 3.