Mercedes-Benz Korea has announced a strategic partnership with the Korea Institute of Startup & Entrepreneurship Development (KISED) to help promising Korean startups expand into international markets.
Partnership to Boost Korean Startups Globally
On December 12, 2025, Mercedes-Benz Korea signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with KISED to participate in the global collaboration program “Around X.” Organized by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups and KISED, Around X aims to strengthen Korean startups’ technologies and support their entry into overseas markets through partnerships with leading global corporations.
The MOU signing took place during the COMEUP 2025 global startup festival at COEX in Seoul, attended by key officials including No Yongseok, First Vice Minister of the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, Yoo Jong-pil, President of KISED, and Kim Hong-jung, Executive Director of External Relations at Mercedes-Benz Korea.
Key Features of the Collaboration
Under this partnership, Mercedes-Benz Korea will:
- Participate as a core partner of the Around X program starting 2026.
- Integrate its STARTUP AUTOBAHN KOREA open innovation platform with Around X.
- Provide structured support for startups, including government funding, mentoring, proof of concept (PoC) design, business validation, and international networking opportunities.
- Facilitate collaboration opportunities in the future mobility and automotive technology sector.
Mathias Vaitl, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Korea, stated:
“This agreement will further strengthen the foundation for Korean startups to expand globally by connecting with national support systems. We aim to help startups validate their technologies on the global stage and foster collaboration in the future mobility sector.”
Significance for Korean Startups
This partnership marks a key step in promoting global expansion for Korean startups, providing access to international resources, advanced mentoring, and corporate innovation networks. Through programs like Around X and STARTUP AUTOBAHN KOREA, startups will gain the tools and exposure needed to compete in global markets.