Factory's Post 🇪🇺 #1

We're launching Factory’s Post by 123 Factory! 🚀

From funding opportunities in Europe and Germany to startup trends and insights on the Korea-Europe ecosystem, we bring you everything you need to grow your business. Stay informed with easy-to-digest, valuable updates and take one step closer to the Asian market—every month!

Business Opportunity

🌏 EU Business Hub: Your Gateway to Asian Markets

The EU Business Hub is launching an exciting initiative connecting European businesses with South Korea and Japan! This EU-funded program offers a golden opportunity for European SMEs and startups to establish strong partnerships in Asia through business missions, coaching, and B2B matchmaking opportunities. 🤝

The focus is on three thriving sectors: healthcare/medical equipment, digital solutions, and green technologies. With 50 innovative EU companies selected for each mission and systematic business coaching provided, you'll be well-prepared to enter these dynamic markets. Visit here to keep an eye out for upcoming South Korean missions!

123 Factory’s Project

💼 WELL 2025: Bright Global Talent – Fully Sponsored Interns for Your Team!

Looking for extra hands to support your team? Here’s an opportunity you shouldn’t miss!

Through WELL 2025: The Overseas Work Experience Project, your company can host talented interns for 2 to 4 months. This program is run by HRDK (Human Resources Development Service of Korea), a government agency that supports global career development and workforce mobility.

HRDK handles everything from recruitment and training to initial interviews, salaries, etc. With all the logistics taken care of, you can easily integrate globally-minded interns into your team without any extra burden. 🌍✨

Don’t miss this chance to bring fresh global talent on board! If you’re interested, feel free to reach out at [email protected]

👉 Apply: February - September 2025
👉 Internship Period: 2-4 months, during April - November 2025
👉 Contact: [email protected]

Market Entry: to Korea

🚀 Introducing the Startup Korea Special Visa: A Game Changer for Global Entrepreneurs!

South Korea is opening its doors to global entrepreneurial talent with the newly launched Startup Korea Special Visa. This special visa aims to attract innovative startups by minimizing strict requirements and  focusing on business feasibility and innovation rather than traditional academic or financial criteria.

One of its key advantages is its flexibility - entrepreneurs can apply for the visa even before establishing a business entity in Korea, and from overseas without a residency requirement, making it easier than ever to launch a business in Korea.

Get full details here and expand your market to Asia! 🌏

Mobility: The Drivery Korea

The Drivery, Europe’s largest mobility innovation hub, is located in Berlin, and 123 Factory manages the operations of The Drivery Korea. Through the monthly 123 Factory newsletter, The Drivery Korea delivers key updates on the European mobility sector.

🎉The Drivery Korea Office in Seoul! 🇰🇷

We’re excited to share that The Drivery Korea Pop-up Office is now open at the Seoul Startup Hub Gongdeok! 🎉

If you’re planning a visit to Seoul, we’d be happy to introduce you to SBA(Seoul Business Agency) and help you connect with their network. You’re also more than welcome to drop by The Drivery Korea office and get some work done while you’re in town.

Please contact 📩 [email protected] to rent the space — We’d love to welcome you here!

🚗 The Future of Mobility: The Rise of Software-Defined Vehicles

The automotive industry is entering a new era, where software is redefining mobility. The Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) is no longer a concept of the future – it is transforming the way cars operate today. With continuous over-the-air updates, AI-driven connectivity, and a shift towards service-based vehicle models, SDVs are unlocking new revenue streams, enhancing user experiences, and driving sustainability.

However, the road ahead is not without challenges. From software integration complexities and cybersecurity risks to regulatory hurdles, automakers must adapt to a rapidly changing digital landscape. 

Discover more insights in the Global Mobility Trend Report 2025 by The Drivery and stay ahead in the evolving automotive ecosystem. Read the full report here.

Upcoming Event

🌏 Venture Capital World Summit (28.02, Seoul)

This year on 28th February in Seoul, 7th March in Tokyo or 28th March in Berlin - Create abundant opportunities for entrepreneurs, providing pathways to investments and international connections. 👉 Register here

About 123 Factory

Based in Berlin & Seoul, 123 Factory is a dynamic collaboration platform where Korean and European businesses grow together. We go beyond just being an accelerator or incubator—we are a strategic partner driving innovation, helping Korean companies expand into Europe and European businesses enter the Asian market. Let’s turn ideas into reality and scale your business together!🚀

Thank you for reading Factory’s Post!
We’re always open to exciting news, promotions, and proposals to share with the 123 community. Feel free to reach out at [email protected] — we’d love to hear from you! 😀