Naver and Kakao Ventures Boost AI Startup Investments in 2024
Naver and Kakao Ventures increased their startup investments significantly in 2024, marking their highest activity in three years. Naver D2SF and Kakao Ventures reported a total of 14 and 27 startup investments, respectively, with a focus on AI technology.
Naver made 9 new and 5 follow-up investments, primarily in early-stage AI startups, after a decline in investment numbers in previous years. Kakao Ventures recorded 19 new and 8 follow-up investments, including notable companies like quantum computing startup Oquty and medical AI startup YeajiX. Despite a general decrease in the number of investments across the industry, both companies expanded their activities, with plans for continued investments in 2025, particularly by Naver in North America.
