Blockchain companies nurtured by the city of Busan are accelerating their global expansion, delivering results in investment attraction and business development across European and Southeast Asian markets. With achievements ranging from awards at international startup competitions to the establishment of overseas joint ventures (JVs), Busan's specialized blockchain industry development policy is being credited with producing tangible results.
According to the city of Busan on Wednesday, nine local blockchain companies recently participated in "GITEX AI Europe 2026," held in Germany, recording $3.946 million in investment consultations and $25.397 million in export and sales consultations. They also signed 16 memorandums of understanding.
The exhibition is Europe's leading AI and digital showcase, drawing information and communication technology (ICT) companies and investment firms from around the world. Together with the Busan Techno Park, the city of Busan participated in the Korea Pavilion, supporting corporate exhibitions, buyer consultations and interpretation as it worked to open overseas sales channels.
The most notable achievement came from "MarinaChain," which developed a solution for responding to environmental regulations in shipping and logistics. The company placed third in the "Supernova Challenge," a global startup IR competition featuring some 130 innovative companies from around the world, receiving 10,000 euros in prize money. It was recognized by global investors for both its technological capabilities and business viability.
Overseas business development results are also continuing. Earlier, at "GITEX ASIA 2026" held in Singapore, "MediFun" signed a final contract to establish a joint venture (JV) with a Thai medical tourism platform company, marking its full-fledged entry into the Southeast Asian market.
The city of Busan explained that these results are the fruit of its overseas expansion support policy pursued through the "Blockchain Specialized Cluster Development Project." Going forward, the city plans to expand its global business network centered on overseas markets with relatively flexible regulatory environments, while actively supporting investment attraction and overseas business development.
"Busan's blockchain companies are proving their global competitiveness by earning recognition for their technological capabilities and business viability on the world stage," Mayor Jeon Jae-soo said. "We will actively support the pioneering of global markets so that the excellent technology of local companies can lead to overseas investment and business cooperation."
