Is Naver Launching a US Subsidiary to Invest in Startups?
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Synopsis
Naver, the South Korean tech giant, is set to launch a new investment subsidiary in the United States, named Naver Ventures, aimed at supporting local startups. This marks a significant step in their international expansion strategy, with the first investment target being Twelve Labs, an AI startup. Can this initiative reshape the startup landscape?
Key Takeaways
- Naver Ventures aims to support local startups in the U.S.
- The new subsidiary will be based in Silicon Valley.
- Twelve Labs is the first investment target.
- Naver's partnership with Netflix has boosted sign-ups for Naver Plus.
- Diversity and collaboration are key focuses for Naver.
Seoul, June 8 (NationPress) The South Korean technology powerhouse Naver announced on Sunday its plans to create a subsidiary in the United States that will focus on investments to nurture local startups. The company aims to officially launch Naver Ventures in Silicon Valley by the end of this month, according to a press release.
Naver Ventures has already identified Twelve Labs, a South Korean artificial intelligence (AI) startup operating in the U.S., as its inaugural investment target, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
This marks Naver’s first overseas investment subsidiary.
“Silicon Valley represents a hub of innovation where talented individuals and advanced technologies gather. This is why we selected it as the location for our first international investment firm,” stated Naver CEO Choi Soo-yeon.
Due to global economic uncertainties, startups are facing increased challenges in attracting investments. Naver aspires to provide these companies with the stable funding they need to further develop their technologies and operations within the U.S. marketplace, she added.
Naver founder Lee Hae-jin emphasized, “Diversity is becoming crucial in the AI age. Therefore, collaborations with a wide array of partners are vital for Naver.”
In a related development, Naver CEO Choi Soo-yeon met with high-ranking executives from Netflix in Los Angeles last week to review their ongoing membership partnership and discuss future collaboration opportunities.
Choi visited Netflix's Los Angeles office on Tuesday (local time), where she met with Netflix co-CEO Greg Peters and Maria Ferreras, Netflix's global head of partnerships. Also in attendance were Kim Jun-koo, CEO of Naver Webtoon Entertainment, and Kim Yong-soo, Naver's chief strategy officer.
The discussions focused on the success of their partnership, which allows Naver Plus members in South Korea to access Netflix's ad-supported service at no charge.
Naver noted that this partnership resulted in a 1.5 times increase in new sign-ups for Naver Plus, a subscription service offering various benefits, including shopping discounts, while enabling Netflix to reach a wider audience in South Korea.
Naver highlighted that Choi has been at the forefront of this collaboration since last year.
Point of View
I believe Naver's decision to establish a subsidiary in the U.S. demonstrates a strategic move to foster innovation and support startups in a challenging economic environment. This initiative not only enhances Naver's global presence but also signifies a commitment to collaboration and diversity in the tech industry.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Naver's new subsidiary?
Naver's new subsidiary, Naver Ventures, is established to invest in and support promising local startups in the United States.
Where will Naver Ventures be based?
Naver Ventures will be based in Silicon Valley, a global hub for innovation and technology.
Who is the first investment target for Naver Ventures?
The first investment target for Naver Ventures is Twelve Labs, a South Korean AI startup operating in the U.S.
How has Naver's partnership with Netflix been beneficial?
Naver's partnership with Netflix has led to a significant increase in Naver Plus sign-ups and allowed Netflix to reach a broader user base in South Korea.
Who are the key figures involved in Naver's U.S. operations?
Key figures include Naver CEO Choi Soo-yeon and founder Lee Hae-jin, who emphasize the importance of collaboration and diversity in the AI era.
