Are Non-listed Companies Dominating Financial AI Patent Applications in South Korea?
Synopsis
A recent report reveals that nearly 70% of AI patent applications in South Korea's financial sector are from non-listed companies and startups. This highlights the pivotal role of venture firms in driving AI advancements in finance, while major brokerage firms recorded significant profits amidst a thriving stock market.
Key Takeaways
70% of financial AI patents come from non-listed firms.
67% of these applications are from local SaaS companies.
Most patents are aimed at business solutions rather than individual customers.
Proactive government involvement is crucial for broader AI adoption.
South Korea's brokerage firms reported record profits in 2025.
Seoul, Feb 17 (NationPress) Almost 70 percent of patent applications for investment-related artificial intelligence (AI) in South Korea originated from non-listed firms and startups, according to a report released on Tuesday. This indicates that venture companies are spearheading the AI revolution in the financial sector.
The Korea Capital Market Institute's findings revealed that 67 percent of these patent applications were submitted by local Software as a Service (SaaS) providers, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
Among these applications, a significant 76 percent were targeted for sale to other businesses, in contrast to only 14 percent aimed at individual consumers, the report detailed.
Many of the AI patents pertained to functions involving standardized processes such as automated trading of financial instruments, surveillance of unusual trading patterns, and stock price assessments.
There was a notably low volume of patent filings in sectors that manage undisclosed information and rely on human connections, such as deal sourcing, as well as those associated with high financial risks, the report stated.
To facilitate broader AI innovation across the financial investment landscape, the report emphasized the need for proactive involvement from government and regulatory bodies.
In the meantime, major brokerage firms in South Korea achieved record profits last year, fueled by a bull market on the local stock exchange, according to industry statistics.
The aggregate net earnings of the nation's 27 securities firms are projected to reach 10.23 trillion won (approximately $7.03 billion) for 2025, a substantial increase from the prior year's 6.97 trillion won.
Korea Investment & Securities Co. reported the highest net income of 2.01 trillion won last year, marking a 79 percent increase from the previous year, followed closely by Mirae Asset Securities Co. with 1.59 trillion won in net profit.
The average daily trading volume on the local stock market reached 16.9 trillion won in 2025, reflecting a remarkable 57 percent increase compared to the previous year, according to the data.
Point of View
Documented in a recent report, highlights the critical role startups play in advancing artificial intelligence in finance. As the landscape evolves, the collaboration between these entities and regulatory bodies will be vital for sustainable growth.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of AI patents are filed by non-listed companies in South Korea?
Approximately 70% of AI patent applications in South Korea's financial sector are from non-listed firms and startups.
What areas do these AI patents mainly cover?
The patents primarily focus on standardized tasks like automated trading, monitoring trading activities, and stock price analysis.
How much profit did South Korea's securities firms make last year?
The combined net profit of South Korea's 27 securities firms is estimated to be 10.23 trillion won ($7.03 billion) for 2025.
