UNIST will lead a new national initiative that brings together researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry to help transform promising AI innovations into new ventures across Southeast Korea.

Supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) and the Institute of Information & Communications Technology Planning & Evaluation (IITP), the initiative launched in July 2026 as one of four regional programs selected nationwide. Over the next six years, it will invest KRW 6.05 billion to support 180 master's and doctoral students through mentorship, early-stage funding opportunities, startup guidance, and participation in international startup exhibitions. The project is led by Professor Yong Hwan Kim of the Graduate School of Carbon Neutrality, who also serves as Dean of the College of Engineering at UNIST.

UNIST will coordinate the initiative across Southeast Korea, a major manufacturing hub with strengths in automotive, shipbuilding, semiconductors, and advanced materials. By connecting AI research with industry needs, the university aims to bring new technologies to market more quickly.

At the heart of the initiative is a ' Market-to-Tech ' model that begins with industry needs rather than existing technologies. Researchers will work alongside companies from the earliest stages of development, developing AI solutions that address real manufacturing challenges while opening new pathways for startup creation.

Students will follow a training pathway that combines research, entrepreneurship, and industry collaboration. Existing UNIST programs—including BTS, UIRP, and AICP—will support each stage of the startup journey, from identifying industrial challenges and developing new technologies to validating business ideas and launching new ventures.

Beyond supporting individual startups, UNIST aims to strengthen collaboration among universities, industries, and investors across Southeast Korea. The university also hopes successful founders will return as mentors and collaborators, helping foster the next generation of entrepreneurs.

“Research has the greatest impact when it begins with the needs of society,” said Professor Yong Hwan Kim. "Working closely with industry gives our students the opportunity to develop technologies with real-world value, while gaining the experience needed to build successful companies."