The Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS) of South Korea convened the third meeting of the Task Force on Resolving Third-Party Interference Issues on February 6, 2026. This initiative aims to address and prevent undue third-party involvement in government support programs for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups. The meeting gathered representatives from six public agencies, including the Korea SMEs and Startups Agency, as well as related ministries and oversight bodies such as the National Police Agency and the Financial Supervisory Service. The policy background centers on ensuring fair access to government support and safeguarding SMEs and startups from illegal brokers and external manipulation. The Task Force is also tasked with monitoring the effectiveness of ongoing policy measures and identifying areas for improvement.
The new measures directly impact SMEs, startups, and self-employed business owners seeking government support. Notably, the Task Force is collaborating with private expert-matching platforms such as Soomgo and Kmong to raise awareness about illegal brokers and strengthen monitoring of government support-related postings. Public agencies and private platforms will establish hotlines and conduct joint publicity campaigns to further deter third-party interference. Additionally, the Ministry is working to simplify the application process for support programs by reducing required documents by 50% and introducing an integrated support platform. These changes are designed to make support programs more accessible and user-friendly for their intended beneficiaries.
Implementation of these reforms is ongoing, with several milestones outlined during the February 2026 meeting. The Ministry plans to automate administrative document submission and transition signature documents online, aiming to reduce paperwork burdens for applicants. An integrated SME support platform will be launched to centralize information and streamline applications. From the second half of 2026, artificial intelligence tools will assist applicants in drafting basic business plans. The Task Force also discussed expanding the TIPS R&D program and establishing a Korean-style STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer Program) to further prevent external interference in R&D and startup support.
Frequently asked questions include how SMEs and startups can benefit from these reforms and what steps are being taken to prevent third-party interference. Applicants will experience a simplified, more transparent process with reduced paperwork and enhanced guidance. The Ministry is working closely with both public and private partners to monitor and publicize risks associated with illegal brokers. Another common question is about the timeline for these changes, with major digitalization and AI support tools expected to be available from late 2026. These efforts collectively aim to ensure fairer, safer access to government support for SMEs and startups.
The Ministry of SMEs and Startups’ multi-faceted strategy, which includes collaboration with private platforms and digital process improvements, is well-grounded in addressing the risks of third-party interference. The reduction of administrative burdens and the introduction of AI support tools are practical steps that can significantly benefit SMEs and startups. The expansion of R&D support and the establishment of new programs like the Korean-style STTR further demonstrate a commitment to fostering innovation while maintaining integrity. If these measures are executed effectively, they are likely to improve both the transparency and efficiency of government support programs.