Naver

Naver, the prominent South Korean internet conglomerate, actively engages in venture capital through its dedicated corporate venture arm, Naver Ventures, established in 2016. This strategic investment vehicle primarily targets early-stage startups, spanning from Seed to Series B rounds, with a keen focus on emerging technologies and sectors that align with Naver's expansive ecosystem. Key investment areas include artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, digital content, fintech, and cloud services, reflecting Naver's core business strengths and future growth ambitions.

Naver Ventures seeks to foster strategic synergies with its portfolio companies, leveraging Naver's vast resources, user base, and technological expertise to accelerate their growth. The firm has demonstrated a consistent investment pace, having backed over 200 startups since its inception. Notable investments include a $1.7 million allocation to AI-powered data analytics firm DeepSearch in 2020, and participation in the $10 million Series A round for AI chip developer Rebellions in 2021.

They also joined the $28 million Series B round for AI startup Upstage in 2022, showcasing their willingness to support companies through later early-stage rounds. While Naver Ventures participates in a wide range of funding rounds, their typical initial cheque sizes for startups generally fall within a specific range. They aim to identify and nurture innovative companies that can either integrate with Naver's platforms or develop technologies that could become foundational to future internet services. This strategic approach underscores Naver's commitment to staying at the forefront of technological innovation and expanding its influence across various digital domains.