Crowdfunding platforms are gaining attention as a means to validate a product’s market potential and brand loyalty in advance. With even corporate spin-offs and IP startups actively utilizing these platforms, they are also being hailed as a starting point for the country’s journey toward becoming a venture powerhouse.
According to industry sources on the 18th, crowdfunding platforms such as WadizTumblbug are serving as testing grounds and stepping stones for market expansion.
Wadiz, many corporate spin-offs from large companies are using crowdfunding to expand their distribution channels.
Linkface, an internal startup at Samsung Electronics, developed a wearable device based on biosignal sensors and successfully raised over 50 million won through a crowdfunding campaign for its ear dehumidifier, "Deebuds." The company has expanded its distribution channels to include Shinsegae Department Store and Hyundai Department Store.
SleepWave, an internal startup at LG Electronics, raised a cumulative total of 300 million won through crowdfunding for "Breeze," a wearable device designed to support mental health. Building on this success, the company has expanded into the global market. Meanwhile, LG Health & Beauty unveiled "IMPRINTU," a portable tattoo printer, and has expanded sales to domestic and international offline locations, including Musinsa, Incheon International Airport, and a shopping complex in Thailand.
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Crowdfunding platforms are evolving beyond mere funding channels into strategic platforms where companies can simultaneously test market viability and gauge fan engagement. This is because they allow companies to gauge actual consumer response through reviews, messages of support, and participation rates from consumers who back the project before the product is launched.
Based on this data, companies can develop concrete strategies for expanding distribution, entering global markets, and even rebranding. The viral effect generated by the fanbase serves as a crucial foundation for attracting investment.
It also allows for risk hedging when attempting new ventures. By using crowdfunding to gauge preliminary demand and secure production funds, companies are not required to commit their own capital upfront. This provides a foundation that enables creators and companies to engage in bolder experimentation.
An industry insider stated, “With the convergence of three key factors—increased government investment, the initiatives of corporate startups, and validation by fan communities—crowdfunding is emerging as a strategic hub within the venture ecosystem,” adding, “It is highly likely to serve as a key channel not only for early-stage market validation but also for global expansion and branding strategies.”
Source
(July 21, 2025, Electronic Times = Reporter Son Ji-hye jh@etnews.com)
