CES 2025 Takeaways by Forvis Mazars in Korea #2

Korea Shined at CES 2025

Korea stood out as one of the most prominent nations at CES 2025. Of the 4,500 participating companies, over 800 were Korean, demonstrating not only a strong presence in numbers but also exceptional quality. Korean companies claimed 162 awards across 363 categories, accounting for approximately 45% of the total, underscoring the country’s technological prowess and innovative spirit.

This remarkable achievement is the result of close collaboration between the government and the private sector. Industry giants like Samsung and LG naturally garnered attention, but small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups specializing in areas such as smart devices, green technology, robotics, and smart mobility also made a strong impression. These successes reflect Korea’s deliberate and strategic efforts to establish itself as a global innovation leader. The government actively supports SMEs and startups through dedicated agencies, offering financial and logistical assistance, while major corporations contribute by fostering startup growth through incubation programs.

Key Korean Players at CES

Among the standout performers, Samsung and LG made a particularly strong impact. Samsung showcased its SmartThings platform, which enhances connectivity among home appliances and expands its reach to vehicles, ships, and commercial spaces under the vision of "AI for All: Everyday, Everywhere." LG, on the other hand, highlighted its Affectionate Intelligence initiative, which delivers an integrated smart home experience while exploring new opportunities in future mobility and autonomous driving technologies.

SK Group also made waves at CES with a united presence from four affiliates—SK Telecom, SK Hynix, SKC, and SK Enmove. Together, they unveiled their vision for a sustainable future powered by innovative AI technologies, presenting a wide array of AI-based services and solutions. Additionally, financial institutions like Shinhan Bank and the Industrial Bank of Korea (IBK) demonstrated how AI could revolutionize digital banking, focusing on enhancing customer experiences and shaping the future of financial services.

A Platform for Global Leadership

CES 2025 proved to be more than just a showcase for cutting-edge products; it reaffirmed its role as a critical platform where economic and technological dynamics take shape. Korea’s performance at this year’s event not only highlighted its competitive edge in the global market but also demonstrated its unwavering commitment to strengthening its position as a global technology leader. These accomplishments serve as a significant milestone in Korea’s journey to secure a leadership role in shaping the future of innovation.