[Edaily Reporter Yun Junghoon ]KTCorporation(030200)is launching a full-scale effort to identify promising AI startups that will help drive its customers’ AI Transformation (AX) initiatives. The company plans to secure future growth engines by partnering with startups possessing next-generation technologies such as Agentic AI and Physical AI.

KTCorporation announced on the 22nd that it is opening applications for its open innovation program, “K-PATH 2026.” The deadline for submissions is the 12th of next month.

Launched in 2024 as “KPAS (Korea Promising AI Startups),” the program has identified promising companies such as Organize, Enhance, Langcode, and Selectstar. This year, KTCorporation is operating the program under the new name “K-PATH” to reflect its commitment to forging a path of growth together with promising AI companies.

Through this call for applications, KTCorporation is seeking domestic AI startups with capabilities in core AX technology fields, including △AI agent platforms and enterprise AI, △data and data for AI, △physical AI and robotics, and △AI infrastructure and foundation models. Additionally, companies driving AI innovation across various industries—such as △finance, △manufacturing, △education, and △the public sector—are also eligible for selection.

Applications for the K-PATH 2026 call for proposals will be accepted on the official website until July 12, and KTCorporation plans to announce the final selections in early August following document reviews and presentation evaluations. Up to 20 companies will be selected.

Selected companies will participate in KTCorporation’s AX business partner platform, collaborating with various business divisions to explore joint business opportunities and execute actual customer projects.

KTCorporation plans to provide a multifaceted growth program, including: △ joint Proof of Concept (PoC) and R&D collaboration; △ joint Go-to-Market (GTM) initiatives and customer acquisition; △ investment opportunities; △ networking opportunities between startups and large corporations; and △ support for participation in domestic and international exhibitions and conferences.

Park Sang-won, Executive Vice President and Head of KTCorporation’s AX Business Division, stated, “K-PATH goes beyond a simple startup support program; it is a platform for identifying key partners who will help shape KTCorporation’s future AX business.” He added, “Through robust collaboration with innovative AI startups, we will accelerate our customers’ AX innovation and create new business opportunities.”