The Cheongju Kangsou Research and Development Special Zone in Chungcheongbuk-do is emerging as a key player in fostering innovation through collaboration among universities, research organizations, and businesses. This special zone has been successful in transitioning the research and technology developed by regional institutions into industry applications, resulting in the establishment of 39 new public research companies and the creation of 388 jobs from 2020 to 2025. Despite not yet having produced a globally recognized company, the potential for growth in sectors like AI and biohealth is promising, highlighting its ability to nurture emerging enterprises.

On October 10, the Chungbuk provincial government also announced an expansion of its 'Open Innovation' initiative within the Kangsou Special Zone. This program pairs large representative companies with small and medium enterprises in related fields to support technology testing and commercialization, thereby enhancing collaboration. Companies like Ecopro and KT are currently leading projects in secondary batteries and GPU-utilized software development, respectively, showcasing the zone’s innovative capabilities.

Since its establishment in 2020, the Cheongju Kangsou Special Zone has demonstrated rapid growth, with 337 companies generating substantial revenue and employing nearly 40,000 individuals by the end of last year. The special zone's comprehensive approach to fostering technology commercialization, the establishment of research companies, business development, and attracting investment creates a beneficial cycle, positioning it as a model for similar innovation hubs in South Korea and beyond.