K-business heads to New York as startup tour opens applications

K-Business Heads to New York… Applications Open for K-Wave Startup Tour

The global expansion of Korean content is moving into a new arena: business.

The New York K-Wave Startup Tour, organized by the Seoul Global K-Wave Startup Incubator, has opened applications for its first session, scheduled for September 2025.

The program stands out as a hands-on startup tour built around business opportunities provided directly by the organizers, rather than a standard overseas study trip. Participants will receive legal advice focused on U.S. immigration and startup visas, conduct on-site visits to Korean business districts in New York and New Jersey, and have opportunities to connect with actual businesses for sale, including restaurants, laundromats and cafés.

Participants interested in global expansion models for Korean franchise brands will also be offered startup concepts that incorporate K-content.

The organizers said, “This is not simply an information session or consulting program; it is designed to help participants make real startup decisions on the ground.” The tour is expected to run monthly. Those interested can apply in advance through the official channels.