Published: 17 Feb. 2026, 10:09
The financial district of Yeouido in western Seoul [YONHAP]
Two-thirds of patent applications for investment-related artificial intelligence (AI) in South Korea originated from non-listed companies and startups, according to a report released by the Korea Capital Market Institute on Tuesday. This trend underscores the growing influence of venture firms in the ongoing transformation of the finance sector.
The report revealed that a significant 67 percent of total patent applications in this space came from local Software as a Service (SaaS) companies. Notably, 76 percent of these patents were aimed at being marketed to other businesses, while only 14 percent were directed towards individual consumers. This focus on B2B solutions suggests that startups are prioritizing enterprise-level applications of AI in finance.
Many of the patents filed pertain to AI technologies designed for standardized financial tasks. These include functionalities such as consigned trading of financial products, monitoring unusual trading activities, and conducting stock price analysis. However, the report indicated that AI patent filings in areas that involve undisclosed information or depend significantly on human networks—such as deal sourcing—were notably limited. Similarly, domains characterized by high financial risks saw minimal patent activity.
The findings suggest a clear divide in the application of AI technologies within the financial sector, where the focus remains heavily on automating routine tasks rather than innovating in riskier, less quantifiable areas. This may reflect an industry cautious of regulatory implications associated with more sensitive operations.
“For AI innovation to spread across the entire financial investment industry, rather than being concentrated in certain areas, active roles of the government and regulatory authorities are necessary,” the report stated. This call for more proactive involvement from regulatory bodies highlights the potential for growth and diversification in the application of AI within finance, provided that supportive frameworks are established.
The rise of AI in finance is indicative of broader technological advancements that are reshaping how financial services are delivered globally. As venture firms continue to drive innovation, South Korea’s financial sector may witness increased collaboration between startups and established institutions, fostering an ecosystem ripe for disruption and new opportunities. This trend aligns with a global movement towards leveraging advanced technologies to enhance efficiency and efficacy in financial operations.
In conclusion, while the current landscape showcases a focus on standardized tasks and B2B applications, the potential for broader AI integration in finance remains significant. With the right regulatory support, the financial sector could evolve to embrace a wider range of AI applications, ultimately transforming how financial services are conceptualized and delivered.
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