South Korea is ramping up efforts to expand its domestic security industry overseas, with the National Police Agency (NPA) joining forces with the Korea Trade Insurance Corporation (K-sure) to help small and mid-sized companies break into international markets.
The agreement, announced on September 30, will give security firms access to financial tools typically out of reach for smaller players. Companies participating in October’s International Security Industry Expo, those involved in government-backed R&D projects, and firms recommended by the NPA will be eligible for support from K-sure.
The package includes preferential export insurance limits, lower premiums, waived fees for overseas credit checks, and consulting services to help firms build global partnerships. “This collaboration is designed to help Korea’s security firms navigate the challenges of exporting, from managing financial risks to connecting with overseas partners,” said Do Jun-soo, Director of Future Security Policy at the NPA.
South Korea’s security industry has become a significant sector, generating about $27 billion in revenue in 2023, with more than 14,000 companies and nearly 660,000 employees. Yet many small and mid-sized businesses continue to struggle with financing, risk management, and international expansion due to limited resources.
K-sure Vice President Jang Jin-wook said the initiative is about leveling the playing field. “Through this partnership, we hope to empower domestic security firms to tap into new markets despite the challenging global environment,” he said.
The move underscores South Korea’s broader strategy to strengthen its global competitiveness in high-value industries—this time by turning its growing domestic security sector into an export-driven force.
