Smilegate Investment Releases 2024 Impact Report: Showcasing Annual In… 2025-02-28

Smilegate Investment (CEO Nam Ki-moon) announced on Thursday, the 20th, the release of its 2024 Impact Report (hereafter 'the Report'), summarizing its investment performance and key achievements over the past year.

Now in its fourth edition, this year’s report provides an in-depth analysis into Smilegate Investment’s investment strategies and outcomes, while highlighting its vision for sustainable growth. The Report also highlights key figures, including total annual investment volume, and features investment cases that have contributed to the growth of the venture ecosystem."

According to the Report, Smilegate Investment invested a total of KRW 136.1 billion in 2024, marking a 38% year-over-year increase. Despite market volatility, the firm maintained its proactive investment approach. Overseas investments were also expanded, with KRW 29 billion deployed primarily in the United States and India, more than doubling compared to the previous year. Starting this year, the company plans to accelerate its global expansion by actively identifying promising companies poised to become unicorns.

Notably, impact-driven companies—startups whose core mission and business model contribute positively to society—accounted for approximately 30% of total investments. Key portfolio companies include Nulleesoft, which provides tax-filing assistance for sole proprietors; Tau Medical, a developer of non-invasive cardiovascular treatment devices; and Gemgem Therapeutics, which offers rehabilitation gaming services for children with disabilities. The Report also includes insights from investment professionals on these companies, offering a deeper understanding of the investment decisions.

Additionally, the Report covers the progress of IBK-Smilegate Investment ESG Fund 1, now in its third year of operation. To date, 41% of its KRW 20 billion total commitment has been invested, supporting 12 companies that have demonstrated strong ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) impact, with a total investment of KRW 8.1 billion.

"During challenging times, it is crucial for venture capital to grow alongside startups and foster sustainable progress. We will continue identifying and investing in innovative companies while sharing our journey of value creation in the global market through this Report," said Nam, Ki-moon, CEO of Smilegate Investment. 

The 2024 Impact Report is available on Smilegate Investment’s official Facebook page and website. [Click] KR Ver.