The Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering and Technology (KICET), an affiliate organization of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE), is the sole institute specializing in ceramics.
KICET has been contributing to the national ceramics industry development through not only carrying out research and development (R&D) on cutting-edge new materials in the ceramics field, but also executing such missions as testing & analysis & evaluation, corporate support, and policy support for the ceramics industry.
KICET, as an organizing institute of the start-up leap package support project from 2019 to 2022 aimed at helping Korean start-ups grow, is supporting start-ups for successful leaps through new businesses by facilitating the innovative growth of the start-ups.
The start-up leap package support project is supervised by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS), and is aimed at discovering and supporting competent Korean start-ups.
Korea’s start-ups – which have high potential for growth within their business career span of three to seven years – are entitled to receive such various benefits as financial aid, professional mentoring, support for advancement into domestic and overseas markets, etc.
Moreover, together with the support of commercialization capital including R&D support, such agency specialization programs as the technical support program, provide support for product upgrading, support for global competency enhancement, support for export, etc.
KICET discovered and fostered 22 start-ups as of 2021 and selected more than 20 start-ups last year, and is currently supporting these enterprises.
A high-ranking staff member of KICET recently noted, “We will do our best to steadily discover and foster more companies including three start-ups in 2022 – in order to ultimately nurture those start-ups as Korea’s representative enterprises in the near future.”
Textile/Fabric
Thermal Insulation Fiber
[INQ. NO. 2312C05] Aerogel is a groundbreaking textile that uniquely blocks all three heat transfer modes: conduction, convection, and radiation. Its remarkable insulation properties make it an ideal material for both summer and winter apparel.
In summer, it effectively prevents external heat from entering, while maintaining functionality against sweat and washing, ensuring comfort and coolness. In winter, Aerogel fiber excels in blocking cold external air and preserving body heat. Despite being lightweight and thin, it offers significant thermal insulation, making it a versatile choice for various applications.
PLUS Co., Ltd., established in 2021, is the company behind this innovative fiber. As a research-based enterprise funded by the Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering and Technology, PLUS Co., Ltd. specializes in compositing high polymer resin with functional materials.
The company’s main achievement is the development of fibers and films incorporating Aerogel, renowned for its lightness and superior insulation qualities. Currently, PLUS Co., Ltd. is developing cold-chain solutions and heat diffusion prevention pads using Aerogel, collaborating with industry leaders like Kolon and Toray.
Building Materials/Coatings
Thermal Insulation Paint
[INQ. NO. 2312C06] Ja Yeon Jeong Won is a thermal insulation paint crafted using natural ingredients such as loess, ceramics, and phytoncides, along with a loess composite filler, represents a significant advancement in thermal insulation technology.
Developed in collaboration with the Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering and Technology, this product utilizes a specially formulated loess thermal composite filler, setting a new standard in infrared reflectivity and thermal conductivity reduction.
It maximizes insulation and thermal effect, effectively preventing condensation and mold. Additionally, it removes carcinogens, harmful substances, and enhances air quality through its antibacterial and antiviral properties, contributing to a healthier environment and aiding in energy conservation.
BR Ceratec, specializing in natural paints, is committed to developing functional coatings using organic natural materials and advanced ceramic substances. The company ensures its products, including natural paints, plasters, and coatings for architectural finishes, are eco-friendly and safe, devoid of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and harmful chemicals.
Home Decor/Art Objects
Artisanal Ceramics
[INQ. NO. 2312C07] White Memories is a line of exquisite ceramics, where clay is transformed into paint to create delicately crafted pieces. Each product in this collection is brought to life with 60 brushstrokes, resulting in a unique texture and form that captures the beauty of nature and the human touch.
The essence of White Memories lies in exploring the intricate marks and shapes formed by the interaction of natural elements and skilled craftsmanship. This approach connects the aesthetics of natural textures, with practical use, offering a blend of art and utility.
Grace Objet, the creator of White Memories, aims to provide objects that enrich daily life with a touch of elegance. The brand’s focus is on premium porcelain, blending the purity of natural materials with artisanal mastery.
Grace Objet is dedicated to showcasing the value of craftsmanship where thoughtful hands create works of art. Their products are a testament to artistic beauty and meticulous design, designed to illuminate moments and add sophistication to everyday life.
Dental Materials/Equipment
[INQ. NO. 2312C08] LUXEN offers a range of products designed to enhance dental aesthetics.
Dental Zirconia Blocks
LUXEN Multi Layer Block, available in 1200+600 Multi and 1100 Multi versions, is notable for its transparency and multi-layered structure. It is particularly effective for aesthetically focused dental treatments, especially for anterior teeth. These blocks are crafted to resemble natural teeth closely, simplifying the work process for dental technicians, including those with less experience, thereby making it a competitive choice in the dental industry.
Dental Color Liquid
LUXEN Color Liquids are made using with zirconia blocks to mimic the natural colors and characteristics of teeth. With a wide range of color liquids, LUXEN enables the expression of various tooth colors and is continuously developing these products. Additionally, LUXEN operates the DMD Academy, where five of Korea’s top dental technicians provide educational content on using zirconia with color liquids, furthering the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation.
DENTALMAX Co., Ltd., established as Korea’s leading Dental Zirconia Manufacturer, launched the zirconia CAD/CAM brand LUXEN in 2013. Its flagship products, the Multi Layer Blocks and Color Liquids, reflect the company’s focus on combining technological advancement with practical application in the field of dental aesthetics.
Interior Accessories
Integrated Planter and Saucer
[INQ. NO. 2312C09] SPROUT is a brand that excels in creating premium ceramic planters, renowned for its signature design where the planter and saucer are integrated into one. Their product line, featuring around 40 different models, includes unique designs inspired by traditional Korean elements. The Moon model reinterprets the classic Korean Moon Jar, while the Drum model draws inspiration from traditional Korean drums.
What sets SPROUT apart is their use of natural clays from various countries, mixed according to their unique recipe. This results in planters with diverse and natural color tones.
Moreover, SPROUT has developed its own breathable coating for earthenware, which is applied to the interior of the planters. This innovative coating addresses common issues like discoloration and efflorescence, enhancing the functionality of the products.
SPROUT’s premium ceramic planters are designed to harmoniously blend into sophisticated spaces. As a brand specializing in beautiful and durable premium pottery, SPROUT produces a range of premium planters and vases. Their products are highly valued as interior decor items, combining aesthetic appeal with practical functionality.
Dental/Orthodontic Equipment & Supplies
[INQ. NO. 2312C10] A-Line and S-Line brackets represent a significant advancement in orthodontic treatments. The A-Line bracket, known for its high dimensional stability, is particularly advantageous for tooth angulation adjustments.
Its robust ceramic strength effectively minimizes slot fractures, a common issue with orthodontic wire torque. Additionally, its bonding base incorporates an undercut design to reduce bracket detachment and debonding stress.
The S-Line bracket, meanwhile, is designed with a wider and rounder ligation door. This feature not only improves the aesthetics but also maximizes patient comfort and treatment effectiveness.
Biocetec Co., Ltd., established in 2012 in the Republic of Korea, specializes in developing top-quality ceramic orthodontic products. It has introduced the world to its innovative ceramic self-ligating brackets, including the active type A-Line and passive type S-Line, as well as the conventional C-Line brackets.
Furthermore, Biocetec has developed the BIO TACK orthodontic mini implants. The company’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its products, which are exported to over 45 countries globally, showcasing the company’s significant impact in the field of orthodontics.
Specialty Manufacturing Materials
Functional Ceramic Material
[INQ. NO. 2312C11] A cutting-edge functional ceramic material, distinguished by its exceptional antibacterial, antifungal, and deodorizing properties, has been developed to revolutionize various applications.
This material boasts a 99.9% antibacterial efficacy, up to 90% antifungal effectiveness, and a significant deodorization capability of up to 40%. Engineered for safety, it does not contain any harmful elements.
The versatility in manufacturing allows it to be shaped into various forms including rectangles, circles, and spheres of less than 2mm, making it an ideal core material for products requiring enhanced hygiene and safety features.
TSJ Co., Ltd., established in 2020, specializes in functional ceramic materials. TSJ Co., Ltd. focuses on producing ceramics, particularly for Class 2 medical devices like infrared irradiators.
The company’s commitment to quality and innovation is evident in its products, which meet stringent radiation rates and energy characteristics for medical applications. TSJ Co., Ltd. supports businesses in commercializing products based on this high-functionality material, playing a pivotal role in driving forward the industry’s capabilities in specialized ceramics.
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