VKSEN 2025 Networking Event Recap

1. VKSEN 2025 event overview

VKSEN 2025, co-hosted by The Invention Lab and C-LAPS, was held on the evening of Monday, June 30, 2025, at Cloud 12 Kitchen & Bar, a rooftop venue at the Oakwood Hotel with a stunning view of Landmark 81. The setting provided the ideal backdrop for an evening of meaningful cross-border networking.

The gathering brought together approximately 50 Korean startup leaders, investors, and company representatives from a wide range of industries, including AI, mobility, film, education, healthcare, and beauty.

More than just a networking session, VKSEN 2025 distinguished itself for its emphasis on genuine relationship-building and business opportunities. Through carefully curated interactions and a shared sense of purpose, the event reinforced the growing synergy between Korea and Vietnam in the startup and innovation space.

2. Notable moments & takeaways

📩 Mr. David Kim kicked off VKSEN 2025 with vision and optimism

CEO David Kim of The Invention Lab delivered a welcoming speech, beginning with an acknowledgment of the organic, casual energy in the room, noting that many attendees were already exchanging business cards and networking even before the event officially began. He emphasized the importance of active participation and mutual support in such gatherings.

Mr. Kim also provided a candid view of the Korean investment climate, describing the past three years as extremely challenging, with the venture environment effectively shattered. However, he noted that the tide is turning: new funds are forming, dry powder is being activated, and there is a positive shift in sentiment across Korea’s VC ecosystem.

Furthermore, he emphasized Korea's increasing interest in Vietnam. Looking ahead, he described 2025–2026 as pivotal years for Vietnam-bound investment, particularly for Korean startups entering the market, as well as in sectors such as AI-related technologies, F&B, and distribution, which are seeing heightened investor attention.

Finally, he acknowledged the resilience of Korean founders. He delivered a heartfelt message dedicated to those who have persevered through the past seven to eight years of building startups in Vietnam, especially under challenging market conditions. He concluded by framing the next eight years as more critical than ever, presenting this moment as a call to action to seize emerging opportunities.

👋 30-second self-introduction

As part of the evening’s agenda, each attendee was invited to deliver a brief 30-second self-introduction, a simple yet effective format that fostered familiarity and sparked spontaneous connections. This rapid-fire session provided a glimpse into the diverse backgrounds, ambitions, and experiences of the participants.

Startup founders introduced their companies across a wide range of industries. Many highlighted recent milestones, such as successful fundraising rounds, product launches, and strategic expansions into the Vietnamese market. Some reflected on their early days in Vietnam, describing how cold emails, prototypes, or chance encounters became the starting points of their ventures. Investors and ecosystem builders also stepped up to share their roles in supporting early-stage ventures and strengthening cross-border collaboration.

Vietnam was repeatedly described as a promising launchpad for Southeast Asia, with its youthful population, rising digital adoption, and entrepreneurial energy. Many shared stories that underscored the grassroots nature of their market entry, arriving with little more than an idea and a willingness to adapt. The recurring theme throughout was one of mutual support, resource-sharing, and a desire to deepen collaborative networks between Korean and Vietnamese stakeholders.

Source: C-Laps

3. Startup highlights

3.1 OKXE

3.2 Go2Joy

3.3 Yaho Lab

3.4 ODA

3.5 Difisoft

3.6 ABC Studio

3.7 Beberia

3.8 K-Style Hub

3.9 SpaceT

3.10 ReFeed

Wrap-up summary

To conclude the event on a fun and engaging highlight, the organizers hosted a mini lucky draw, adding a touch of excitement for the participants. Three lucky winners were announced, bringing extra smiles to the evening.

The event successfully fostered cross-cultural dialogue and mutual respect among Korean startup stakeholders. Several participants expressed their appreciation to the organizers for creating such a meaningful platform and encouraged similar gatherings in the future. As conversations around partnership, innovation, and market entry continue to gain momentum, this networking session not only highlighted the enthusiasm of the attendees but also reaffirmed Vietnam’s rising significance in Asia’s dynamic startup ecosystem, marking a strong step forward in cross-border collaboration.

Source: The Invention Lab & C-Laps