Korea Intellectual Property Office holds forum to boost Sejong startups

The Korea Intellectual Property Office held a field meeting Friday with about 50 small and medium-sized enterprises in Sejong to discuss tailored support for the city's emerging industries. Commissioner Kim Yong-seon led the gathering at Sejong Techno Park.

Attendees included Rep. Kim Jong-min, the head of the Sejong Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and municipal officials.

Sejong has been cultivating future industries such as semiconductors, components and materials, bio-health, artificial intelligence, robotics, digital content and knowledge services alongside its role as an administrative capital.

Participants proposed expanding support programs, reducing contribution fees and developing joint trademarks for traditional markets to revitalize local commerce. Additional suggestions included activating intellectual property management networks and increasing aid for early-stage ventures.

The office pledged to reflect these opinions in future regional support policies.

"Sejong is home to companies growing toward the global market based on source technologies and various tech firms challenging new fields," Kim said. "We will make the strengths of Sejong's industries and companies more solid through intellectual property and create a growth model suited to the region together with the community."