At the event. (Source: VNA)

The event, part of the Da Nang Innovation Startup Festival (SURF 2024), was organised by the municipal Department of Science and Technology in collaboration with the Vietnam Innovation Network in the Republic of Korea (RoK). It attracted hundreds of participants, including representatives from the local government, businesses, and the startup communities of Da Nang and Seoul.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Duong Hoang Van Ban, Deputy Director of the Da Nang Department of Science and Technology, said the workshop provides an opportunity for the two sides to review their cooperation in the recent past and outline directions for the future.

He expressed hopes that the partnership will move beyond sharing experiences and ideas to concrete collaborative projects that would benefit the startup ecosystems in both cities.

Since its launch in August 2023, the "Da Nang-Seoul Innovation Startup Space" has played a crucial role in connecting the startup ecosystems of Da Nang and Seoul. This initiative has facilitated high-quality training programmes in artificial intelligence and provided co-working spaces for partners from both cities.

IRTech, a Da Nang-based tech company, was among the first to join the programme, leveraging the opportunity to connect with top investors in the RoK. With support from the Vietnam Innovation Network in the RoK, IRTech navigated legal procedures, recruited quality staff, and established initial business successes.

Choi One-Hui, CEO of Korea's Pioneer Company, highlighted the importance of understanding market demands and advised startups to develop strategies for technology infrastructure and have clear investment plans when entering new markets.

According to Ban, the success of companies like IRTech showcases the potential of the Da Nang-Seoul partnership. He said the increasing presence of Korean businesses in Da Nang further enriches the local startup ecosystem, strengthening the collaboration and friendship between the two cities.