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How latest genetic data on fertility may be an indicator of chronic disease onset and longevity

SINGAPORE, May 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Latest population studies have cast new light on genetic influences on women’s reproductive lifespans and possible markers for the onset of chronic diseases.

Evidence is growing that conditions such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and neurodegenerative disorders are associated with reduced ovarian reserve, which refers to the number of healthy eggs remaining in a woman’s ovaries as she ages.

In contrast, extended ovarian function appears to correlate with general good health and the possibility that greater reproductive success is an indicator of longevity.

The complex genetic interplay between the onset of menstruation and menopause came into sharp focus today at the 2025 Congress of the Asia Pacific Initiative on Reproduction (ASPIRE) in Singapore.

In a keynote address to the Congress, Professor Joop Laven, a world expert in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, suggested reproductive lifespan was associated with “survival”.

He is the Professor of Reproductive Medicine at Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam in The Netherlands, Past President of the Dutch Society of Reproductive Medicine, and a lead figure in Genome Wide Association Studies (GWAS).

The GWAS project has identified about 290 genetic determinants of reproductive ageing in a huge cohort of about 500,000 women of European ancestry.

In the project, Professor Laven has explored the genetic basis of hormonal conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), along with premature ovarian insufficiency, menarche and menopause.

At the ASPIRE Congress, Professor Laven said women with PCOS tended to have the most effective genetic variants for DNA repair providing a “genetic advantage” of fertility beyond the fourth decade of life, when most women have exhausted their natural supply of eggs.

“Studies show PCOS women have better DNA repair and therefore produce better embryos at a later age compared to controls, and they have an extended reproductive life span,” he explained.

“Women with PCOS have issues getting pregnant earlier in life. This may reduce the total number of children they have so they do not have a negative trade-off that a high number of children might have.

“Together with their longer lifespan this may represent an evolutionary advantage. Moreover, by having children later in life might reduce the incidence of PCOS in their offspring.”

Professor Laven said studies indicated that over time, the gradual accumulation of DNA damage results in the exhaustion of cell renewal capacity and dysfunction in affected organs, ultimately accelerating cell death, commonly referred to as ageing.

“A similar erosion of the genome occurs within the ovaries,” he said.

“The extent of DNA maintenance and repair also seems to have a determining effect on susceptibility to conditions including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease.”

Professor Laven said sub-fertility should be monitored as it serves as a sensitive marker for susceptibility to these conditions highlighting the importance of patient follow up among those presenting for assisted reproduction.

“This seems to be in contrast to what most assisted reproductive technology clinics do,” he added. “In general, clinics only report live birth rates as success.

“So, in many cases we are not following up our patients who may be susceptible to non-communicable diseases when we have the opportunity to develop preventive health strategies for them.”

The ASPIRE Congress at the Suntec Convention and Exhibition Centre in Singapore has brought together over 2,000 scientists, clinicians, nurses and counsellors for a program that will help shape the future of fertility health care in the region and around the world.

For further information, go to www.ASPIRE2025.com

Priority Pass Excellence Awards 2025 Winners Revealed

  • Advantage VIP Lounge in Brazil voted Global Lounge of the Year
  • Kyra Lounge at Hong Kong International Airport voted Asia Pacific Lounge of the Year
  • 781,000 member reviews and ratings between March 2024 and 2025 contributed to the overall results
  • Six further winners revealed for Pioneer of the Year and All Star of the Year categories

SINGAPORE, May 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Priority Pass™ – the original and market-leading lounge and airport experiences programme owned and operated by Collinson International – announces the winners of the Priority Pass Excellence Awards 2025. This year’s winners have set new benchmarks with exceptional service and technological innovation, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

The Priority Pass Excellence Awards are comprised of three categories, celebrating the full breadth and capabilities of the Priority Pass global network. These include Lounge of the Year, Pioneer of the Year, and All Star of the Year.

“The Priority Pass Excellence Awards celebrate the extraordinary efforts of our lounge and experience partners who continuously go above and beyond to make travellers’ journeys special,” says Christopher Evans, CEO of Collinson International.

“As demand for premium travel experiences continues to rise, more and more travellers are turning to airport experiences to elevate their journeys. This is testament to the many exceptional partners who are raising the bar across the airport ecosystem. Through these awards, we want to shine a light on our partners who continue to find ways to elevate customer experience. Congratulations to this year’s winners and those that were highly commended.”

“Through the Priority Pass Excellence Awards, we are proud to recognise our lounge partners’ efforts in creating notable moments for our members worldwide. This year’s award winners embody a collective dedication to enhancing every traveller’s experience through outstanding service and innovation,” says Todd Handcock, Global Chief Commercial Officer and Asia Pacific Executive Chair at Collinson International.

“Alongside our worthy Asia Pacific Lounge of the Year winner, Kyra Lounge, we’re also pleased to see Asia Pacific-based lounges receive Pioneer of the Year awards: 080 Domestic & International Lounges in Bangalore, India; and Kepler Club in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In line with travel to and within Asia Pacific continuing to increase, and consumer demand for enhanced experiences evolving, we look forward to continuing our collaboration with new and existing partners to broaden and enrich our offerings.”  

LOUNGE OF THE YEAR 

This accolade goes to the highest-rated lounges across the Priority Pass global network, based on 781,000 member ratings and reviews across a wide range of criteria, including quality of facilities, customer service, food and beverage selection and overall satisfaction.

Overall Global Winner:

  • Advantage VIP Lounge, Terminal 1, Belo Horizonte Tancredo Neves International Airport, Brazil

Crowned as the global winner, the Advantage VIP Lounge was praised for being a true standout, described by Priority Pass members as a lounge with exceptionally kind staff and fantastic food, which all members should visit and experience.

The Advantage VIP lounge draws architectural inspiration from Brazilian heritage and culture, such as the Pampulha Church and the natural gemstones of Minas Gerais. The culinary offering celebrates regional flavours, with dishes such as chicken with okra, vaca atolada (Brazilian short rib stew), and the classic combination of cheese with guava for an authentic taste of Brazil.

The lounge experience is enhanced with a Fast-Track service, allowing guests to pass through a dedicated x-ray area and head straight into the lounge, cutting down on wait times and maximising opportunities to relax and recharge.

Rute Scheliga, CEO of Advantage VIP Lounge, said: “Being recognised as the Global Lounge of the Year winner for the Priority Pass Excellence Awards is the fulfilment of a dream that began in 2015, when I founded Advantage. Our purpose is to transform the concept of premium lounge experiences in Brazilian airports, and to see this work recognised globally – in the very year we celebrate our 10th anniversary – is incredibly moving.

“This award belongs to every team member who dedicates themselves each day with excellence and care, and also to our customers, who believed in our vision and voted for us. Today, with great joy, we celebrate this milestone together!”

Regional Winners:

  • Asia Pacific 
    • Winner: Kyra Lounge, Terminal 1, Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong (SAR)
    • Highly Commended: Oriental Club Lounge, Terminal 2, Taipei Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Taiwan
  • Europe 
    • Winner: Vienna Lounge, Terminal 1, Vienna Airport, Austria
    • Highly Commended: Marco Polo Club, Venice Marco Polo Airport, Italy
  • Latin America and the Caribbean 
    • Winner: Advantage VIP Lounge, Terminal 1, Belo Horizonte Tancredo Neves International Airport, Brazil
    • Highly Commended: VIP Lounge Punta Cana, Terminal B2 Domestic, Punta Cana International Airport, Dominican Republic
  • Middle East and Africa 
    • Winner: Primeclass Lounge, Muscat International Airport, Oman
  • North America 
    • Winner: The Grand Lounge Elite, Terminal 1, Mexico City Benito Juárez International Airport, Mexico
    • Highly Commended: Escape Lounges, Concourse A, Kansas City International Airport, United States

PIONEER OF THE YEAR 

Nominated by Priority Pass lounge and experience partners, these winners champion unique and innovative services and solutions that help to improve the overall traveller experience. 

This year, there were three winners crowned Pioneer of the Year:

  • The Infinity Lounge, Terminal 2 & The Library Lounge, Terminal 1, Nice Cote d’Azur Airport, France
    • These lounges have reinvented the VIP experience with a suite of smart, guest-focused innovations. A connected digital ecosystem delivers notifications and tailored offers, while “The Moment” gives travellers instant access to premium streaming and shopping content. Guests are greeted by Tony, a friendly “co-bot” who handles logistics so staff can focus on exceptional service. To top it off, a real-time vocal feedback system, powered by AI, listens and learns to anticipate needs and continuously elevate the experience.
  • 080 Domestic & International Lounges, Terminal 2, Kempegowda International Airport, India
    • Blending thoughtful design, curated dining, digital innovation and sustainability, the 080 Lounges elevated the guest journey in 2024–25. Through seasonal events, local sourcing and immersive guest experiences, they earned prestigious global awards, setting new standards for airport hospitality in India.
  • Kepler Hotel & Lounge, Riga International Airport, Ria, Latvia and Kepler Club, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Malaysia
    • These facilities offer travellers a private and tech-enabled retreat with soundproof sleeping cabins, luxury showers, and smart features like self-service kiosks, delivery robots, and other automated systems.

ALL STAR OF THE YEAR 

Nominated by Priority Pass partners, these stand-out lounge and experience employees demonstrate an unwavering commitment to customer service excellence, every single day.  

This year, there were three winners of the All Star of the Year category:

  • Cristina Isabel Escobar Sánchez, Cumbia Lounge, Barranquilla Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport, Colombia
  • Nanci Quintana, AMAE Lounge, International and Domestic Terminals, Rosario Islas Malvinas International Airport, Argentina
  • Guilherme Queiroz da Silva, BRT Lounge, Porto Seguro Airport, Brazil

For more details about our awards, winners and highly commended, please visit the Priority Pass Excellence Awards landing page.

Priority Pass is the original and market-leading airport experiences programme. We provide travellers with access to over 1,700 airport lounges and travel experiences in 725 airports in 145 countries. Members can access an ever-growing range of premium experiences – from spas to sleeping pods to dining – that help elevate every journey into something special. By building partnerships with other leading brands, we help to bring a better travel experience to the world. 

Priority Pass is operated by Collinson International, the global, privately-owned company dedicated to helping the world to travel with ease and confidence.

SMU Appoints Professor Zhang Liandong as New Dean of School of Accountancy

SINGAPORE, May 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Singapore Management University (SMU) has appointed Professor Zhang Liandong as the new Dean of its School of Accountancy (SOA), effective 1 July 2025. With over seven years of leadership experience at SOA, Professor Zhang will lead strategic initiatives to elevate the School’s academic reputation and impact.

Professor Zhang Liandong, Dean of SMU’s School of Accountancy
Professor Zhang Liandong, Dean of SMU’s School of Accountancy

The appointment follows an international search led by SMU’s previous Provost Professor Timothy Clark, which began in January 2024 and involved extensive evaluations. The appointment has the support of SMU’s Board of Trustees, faculty, and key stakeholders.

“Professor Zhang Liandong is an accomplished scholar, known internationally for his expertise in Financial Reporting, Corporate Governance, and Taxation. He is also a dedicated teacher, a proven academic leader and a respected colleague,” said Professor Alan Chan, SMU’s new Provost, “With Liandong at the helm, we are confident that SOA will continue to scale new heights.”

Experience and Achievements

Professor Zhang has been a key member of the SOA management team since 2017, serving as Associate Dean, Research from 2017 to 2023, and as Deputy Dean since 2023. In these roles, he has been pivotal in shaping and executing SOA’s education and research strategies, raising its international visibility and enhancing academic excellence. Under his leadership, the SOA achieved significant milestones, including the launch of its inaugural Ph.D. programme in 2017 and a dual-degree Ph.D. programme with Renmin University of China in 2019, both of which have bolstered the school’s academic standing. His efforts also contributed to SOA’s rise in the BYU rankings of Accounting Schools.

Accomplished Scholar

Professor Zhang is an internationally renowned academic whose research interests include Financial Reporting and Disclosure, Corporate Governance, and Taxation. He has an impressive publication record in leading journals such as Contemporary Accounting Research, Journal of Accounting Research, Journal of Accounting and Economics, Review of Accounting Studies, The Accounting Review, and Journal of Financial Economics. His research has made a substantial scholarly and societal impact and has won numerous awards, including Honourable Mention at the 2024 Moskowitz Prize. He is also a sought-after speaker, having delivered keynote addresses at numerous top universities.

Beyond his research, Professor Zhang has held key editorial roles, including serving as Associate Editor of the Asia-Pacific Journal of Accounting and Economics since 2015, and the International Review of Finance since 2023. He has also been the Editor of Corporate Governance: An International Review since 2020. His deep expertise and editorial leadership have further cemented his reputation in the field.

On his appointment as the new Dean of SOA, Professor Zhang said, “I am deeply honoured to accept this role and grateful for the trust placed in me by the senior management and faculty. As Dean, I am committed to fostering a culture of excellence in teaching and research while enhancing our contributions to society. Together, we will build on our strengths and strive to make a meaningful impact in the accounting field and beyond.”

Professor Zhang’s appointment marks a new chapter for SOA, as he aims to strengthen both educational offerings and research output, working closely with SMU’s senior management, faculty, staff, and students to drive SOA’s growth.

About Professor Zhang Liandong

Professor Zhang received his Ph.D. in Accounting from Nanyang Technological University in 2008 and began his academic career as an Assistant Professor at the John Molson School of Business, Concordia University. He then became a Full Professor at City University of Hong Kong in 2016 before joining SMU in 2017. Known for his dedication to education, he has taught extensively at both undergraduate and graduate levels, mentoring numerous students throughout their academic journeys.

About Singapore Management University

A premier university in Asia, SMU is internationally recognised for its world-class research and distinguished teaching. Established in 2000, SMU’s mission is to generate leading-edge research with global impact and to produce broad-based, creative, and entrepreneurial leaders for the knowledge-based economy. SMU’s education is known for its highly interactive, collaborative, and project-based approach to learning. Home to over 13,000 students across undergraduate, postgraduate professional and postgraduate research programmes, SMU comprises of eight schools: School of Accountancy, Lee Kong Chian School of Business, School of Economics, School of Computing and Information Systems, Yong Pung How School of Law, School of Social Sciences, College of Integrative Studies, and College of Graduate Research Studies. SMU offers a wide range of bachelors’, masters’, and PhD degree programmes in the disciplinary areas associated with its schools, as well as in multidisciplinary combinations of these areas. SMU emphasises rigorous, high-impact, multi- and interdisciplinary research that addresses Asian issues of global relevance. SMU faculty members collaborate with leading international researchers and universities around the world, as well as with partners in the business community and public sector. SMU’s city campus is a modern facility located in the heart of downtown Singapore, fostering strategic linkages with business, government, and the wider community. www.smu.edu.sg

SMU celebrates its 25 years of meaningful impact this year, and remains committed to its vision of driving innovation, transcending boundaries and transforming lives.

Celebrating 15 Years of Success: Nam Theun 2 Gala Dinner

Celebrating 15 Years of Success of Nam Theun 2.

On 30 April, Nam Theun 2 Power Company celebrated its 15th anniversary of operation with a grand gala dinner. 

Global Design Dialogues : Trends for Tomorrow

Empowering Business Value Through Design

HONG KONG, May 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Global Design Dialogues: Trends for Tomorrow, hosted by the Hong Kong Designers Association (HKDA) and funded by the Professional Services Advancement Support Scheme of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, concluded with resounding success, bringing together some of the brightest minds in the global design community. Themed with “Empowering Business Value Through Design”, this highly anticipated event not only foster collaboration between Hong Kong’s professional services and international counterparts, elevate industry standards, and enhance global competitiveness through targeted publicity and knowledge exchange, but also served as a platform for forward-thinking discussions on the latest trends and innovations shaping the future of design across industries.

HKDA Global Design Dialogues
HKDA Global Design Dialogues

Held at sky100 on 25th April, 2025, the event featured an exciting lineup of speakers, thought leaders, and creative professionals who shared their insights, experiences, and visions for the future including Mr. Pavel Mrkus, Head curator of Signal Festival, Prof. Thomas Kvan, Dean, School of Design, Southern University of Science and Technology, Mr. Pradyumna Vyas, President-elect of World Design Organization, Mr. Tony Vergara, Founder of Tony Vergara and Mr. Norito Shinmura, Founder of garden inc. From cutting-edge design practices to sustainability and the integration of technology in creative processes, attendees explored a wide range of topics that are defining tomorrow’s design landscape.

Event Highlights

Inspiring Keynotes and Panel Discussions:

Esteemed speakers from across the globe led engaging sessions addressing the theme “Trends for Tomorrow.” Discussions delved into themes such as “Digital Future : Intersections of Art, Design and Advanced Technologies”, “Designing for Digital Transformation”, “Designing for a Sustainable Future : Global Perspectives and Local Applications”, “The Wisdom of Panamanian Stitching : Preserving Identity Through Craft” and “Preserving Craftsmanship in Modern Design : Techniques and Case Studies”, emerging design trends, the role of artificial intelligence in creative industries, and how designers can lead the charge in solving global challenges. Key discussions centered on how designers can contribute to a greener future by adopting eco-friendly solutions and innovative approaches.

Networking Opportunities:

The event provided a unique platform for professionals, students, and enthusiasts to connect, share ideas, and foster collaborations within Hong Kong’s vibrant design community and beyond.

A Vision for the Future

The Global Design Dialogues underscored the significance of design as a catalyst for change in an ever-evolving world. The event not only highlighted the latest trends but also inspired participants to think beyond traditional boundaries, encouraging them to address societal and environmental challenges with creativity and innovation.

For more information about the Hong Kong Designers Association, please visit https://www.hkda.hk/ 

For high res images of event, please download from google drive link below: https://bit.ly/3GwdWj9

About HKDA

Established in 1972, the Hong Kong Designers Association (HKDA) was the first of its kind in Hong Kong and is a founding member of the Hong Kong Design Centre. Its core mission is to promote design’s public interest, cultivate young designers, and elevate the professional status of practising designers across sectors.

Our flagship programmes include of Global Design Awards, GDA (since 1975) – a well-recognised biennial awards that celebrate outstanding global designs; Hong Kong International Poster Triennial, HKIPT (since 2000) – a well-recognised annual awards that celebrate outstanding designs with Asian perspectives; Sponsorship for International Design Awards SIDA (since 2011) – A prestigious funding scheme for winners of international design awards.

With over a thousand individuals and corporations in its diverse membership base, HKDA offers a wide range of membership options for professionals, associates, affiliates, students, and corporations that cover six design disciplines: Graphics, Spatial, Product, Digital, Fashion, and Education. Prioritising design excellence, education, technology integration, sustainability, business support, diversity, and inclusivity, HKDA has established itself as a vital platform for its members, as well as designers, businesses, and organisations throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Through its commitment to advancing these key areas, HKDA provides valuable resources, networking opportunities, and expert guidance to its members while also serving as a hub for innovation and collaboration in the design industry.

HKDA is committed to raising public awareness of the value and importance of design in society. It partners and collaborates with other design organisations and institutions worldwide, such as the International Council of Design (ico-D) and World Design Organization (WDO), to promote global design excellence, cultural diversity, and international design exchanges. By working with other design organisations on a global scale, HKDA aims to contribute to the development and advancement of the design industry, both locally and internationally.

UTP NAMES IR. MOHAMED FIROUZ ASNAN, FASc AS INAUGURAL PRESIDENT

SERI ISKANDAR, Malaysia, May 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) has appointed Ir. Mohamed Firouz Asnan, FASc as its inaugural President, effective 1 May 2025, marking a strategic milestone in the university’s realignment initiative to become a truly world-class institution. 

Firouz has been serving as UTP’s Director of Transformation since July 2024 where he led the development of a comprehensive programme to reposition the university in line with evolving stakeholder expectations. With over 35 years of experience in the energy sector and six years on the UTP Board, he brings critical combination of strategic management and hands-on execution.

As Senior Vice President of Malaysia Petroleum Management PETRONAS, Firouz played a key role in revitalising Malaysia’s upstream sector, collaborating not only with petroleum arrangement contractors but also with the academia to unlock the full potential of the industry amidst the Energy Transition. He also led the creation of PETRONAS’ New Energy Business (now GENTARI) as the Senior Vice President of Corporate Strategy, as part of efforts to future-proof the organisation.

Chairman of the UTP Board Farehana Hanapiah said, “Firouz will focus on driving strategies to achieve UTP’s vision, mission, and long-term goals. While UTP has made significant strides in research and gained recognition, he is expected to realign the research focus on addressing key global challenges that create a better future. This includes deepening collaborations with partner institutions and industry players to transform the industries and societies. He will also lead initiatives to diversify the university’s funding sources, ensuring greater financial sustainability to support our mission.”

“Firouz will also work with a newly appointed Provost, selected through a comprehensive search, to enhance teaching and learning. Until the appointment is finalised, Vice Chancellor Professor Dato’ Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim Abdul Mutalib will serve as Interim Provost,” she added.

Firouz is a registered professional engineer, a member of the Institution of Engineers, Malaysia. He holds a BSc. in Civil Engineering from the University of Southwestern Louisiana (now known as University of Louisiana at Lafayette), as well as an MBA from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) as a Sloan Fellow. He is also the immediate past president of the MIT Club of Malaysia. He has also recently been elected as a Fellow of Academy of Sciences Malaysia.

About Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP)

Established in 1997 by PETRONAS, Malaysia’s national oil corporation, UTP is a leading engineering and technology institution committed to providing lifelong learning opportunities, helping learners achieve their ambitions and contribute to their communities. 

The university also focuses on pioneering technology and innovative solutions to address real-world challenges.

Based in Seri Iskandar, Perak, Malaysia, UTP currently has an enrolment of about 6,500 undergraduate and postgraduate students, along with an additional 1,000 foundation students. The university has more than 25,000 alumni around the world.

Thailand Urges Laos to Reconsider Sanakham Hydropower Dam Location

Sanakham Hydropower Project. (Photo: Mekong River Commission)

Thailand has formally called on Laos to reconsider the proposed location of the Sanakham Hydropower Project, planned between Xayaburi and Vientiane province of Laos, citing serious concerns over potential environmental and social impacts that could affect communities along the Mekong River.

On 30 April, Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Prasert Jantararuangtong, speaking at the first Thai National Mekong Committee meeting of 2025, confirmed that Thailand will submit official documentation to the Lao government and the project’s developer. 

Surasi Kittimonton, Secretary-General of the Thai government’s Office of National Water Resources (left) and Prasert Jantararuangtong, Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society (middle), 30 April 2025. (Photo: Royal Thai Government)

The request urges a review of the dam’s siting to minimize cross-border environmental impacts and preserve relations among Mekong River Commission (MRC) member states. 

Thailand’s objections center on key issues, including unpredictable fluctuations in water levels that could destabilize riverbanks and threaten agriculture, potential extinction of endangered species, such as the Mekong giant catfish, disruption of local fishing and farming livelihoods, and transboundary pollution risks. 

Thai officials confirmed that their formal response to the project has been completed and is ready for submission.

The Sanakham project, a 684-megawatt dam developed by Datang (Lao) Sanakham Hydropower Co. Ltd, is estimated to cost USD 2.073 billion. It is slated for construction on the Mekong River, just two kilometers from the Thai border in Loei Province and roughly 155 kilometers from Laos’ capital, Vientiane. 

The dam’s close proximity to Thai territory has raised strong concerns among Thai authorities and local communities.

Sanakham is the third major mainstream dam on the Mekong proposed by Laos, following controversial developments at Pak Beng, Pak Lay, and Laung Prabang, and the earlier completed Xayaburi and Don Sahong dams. Despite consistent regional scrutiny, these projects have continued to move forward.

Environmental experts warn that the cumulative impact of multiple dams on the Mekong could seriously damage the river ecosystem, potentially affecting the lives and livelihoods of millions of people along its course.

「NextRise 2025, Seoul」: Asia’s Premier Innovation Gateway for Global Startups

SEOUL, South Korea, May 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — NextRise 2025, Seoul, Asia’s leading innovation fair encompassing cutting-edge tech trends and startup ecosystems, will be held on June 26–27, 2025 at COEX, Seoul.

Visitors explore the exhibition hall at NextRise 2024, Asia’s largest startup fair, held last year at COEX in Gangnam, Seoul.
Visitors explore the exhibition hall at NextRise 2024, Asia’s largest startup fair, held last year at COEX in Gangnam, Seoul.

Co-hosted by the Korea Development Bank (KDB)—one of Korea’s largest policy banks and venture investors—and the Korea International Trade Association (KITA)—representing over 76,000 Korean trade enterprises including Samsung and Hyundai—NextRise has established itself as the most powerful platform for startups and innovation agencies seeking to collaborate with Korean industry leaders.

Now in its 7th year, NextRise 2025 will bring together:

  • 500+ startups,
  • 250+ global corporates and VCs,
  • Over 3,600 1:1 business meetings during two days.

In 2024, 373 startups built business partnerships, and 102 startups successfully raised a combined KRW 400 billion (~USD 300 million) in investment. This year’s event will further amplify its focus on AI, Sustainability, and Mobility, with an expanded 1:1 Business Meetup program connecting startups with tech scouts from Fortune 500 companies.

Highlighting its global reach, Germany has been selected as the Country of Honor for 2025. A Startup Germany Pavilion and the Korea-Germany Open Innovation Summit will be hosted in collaboration with IFA Berlin and Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK). National innovation events from JETRO (Japan) and VivaTech (France) will also be featured alongside 20+ global innovation partners.

Startups seeking 1:1 business meetings with LG Chem, Hyundai Motor, Amazon AWS, Airbus, BMW, and more are encouraged to apply via www.nextrise.co.kr by May 12, 2025 (KST).

“NextRise is Asia’s most vibrant platform where startups can directly collaborate with Korean conglomerates and uncover new investment opportunities,” said an official from KITA.
“Last summer’s NextRise became a turning point for me. It helped strengthen my network in Seoul and directly influenced the development of our new MVP, soon to be announced,” shared a German startup CEO who joined in 2024.

For startups aiming for global expansion, and innovation agencies seeking PoC and market validation opportunities in Asia, NextRise 2025 is the definitive platform. Following the event, companies can also leverage the Startup Branch platform for localized guidance on establishing a Korean entity and scaling operations in Asia.