Membership on the Korea Exchange Startup Market (KSM), an over-the-counter third-tier market for startups in South Korea, nearly doubled in the first year.

The KSM that marks its first year on Tuesday has 71 members so far, compared with humble beginning with 37.

Most of the KSM-registered startups came with advanced technology background ranging from internet of things (IoT) to software development and fintech. Three to four KSM-registered companies have become big enough to move onto the bigger Konex market, exchange for small and mid-sized enterprises.

But investor interest remains tepid. Of the 71 members, only four have drawn trade over the last year. Trade volume totaled $270 million ($240,942) so far.

The Korea Exchange plans to improve support to vitalize the market.

By Shin Heon-cheol and Cho Jeehyun

[ⓒ Pulse by Maeil Business Newspaper & mk.co.kr, All rights reserved]