By Honorary Reporter Soukaina A. Lasri from Morocco
Photos = Soukaina A. Lasri  

At GITEX Africa, the continent's largest tech and startup event held from April 14-16 in Marrakesh, Morocco, the Korea Pavilion garnered attention for its cross-continental vision. 

Organized by the Korea-Africa Foundation under the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the event highlighted innovative Korean startups for the third consecutive year.

On April 15, I attended the event and interviewed Lee Jong-kil, director of the foundation's management and support bureau, about growing interactions between Korean businesses and talent in Africa, market opportunities and partnerships using Morocco as their gateway.

The following are excerpts from the interview with Lee.

Lee Jong-kil (left), a bureau director at the Korea-Africa Foundation, poses for a photo at GITEX Africa 2025 in Marrakesh, Morocco.

Why did the foundation attend GITEX Africa and what does it think of Morocco?

Our journey began with GITEX Africa 2023 in Morocco, where we brought startups without knowing what to expect. After three years of participation, we've witnessed how visitors recognize Morocco's potential, and this has led to more partnerships for Korean startups. The growth is evident; while I couldn't spot any Korean companies outside our pavilion in the first year, we saw five or more participating independently this year.

How was this year's participation different from that in 2023?

The key difference is that in 2023, only the startups we brought participated. This year, several Korean companies joined independently of the Korea Pavilion. This significant shift indicates growing confidence in the Moroccan market.

Many Korean companies previously viewed Africa as distant. Our role at the Korea-Africa Foundation is to change that perspective and help them recognize the opportunities across this vast continent.

The Korea Pavilion at GITEX Morocco has startups showcase innovative solutions in sectors including education, agriculture and hospitality.

Which sectors show the strongest potential for Korea-Africa collaboration?

While we welcome all innovative startups, we observed that agriculture, hospitality and education are the most dynamic sectors. They consistently attract the most interest, and we're actively supporting more collaboration and joint ventures in these fields.

What potential do you see in Morocco's talent and workforce?

The potential is remarkable. My visit to Mohammed VI Polytechnic University last year left me impressed by the data center, extensive campus and talented students. I consistently advise Korean startups to engage with and hire Moroccan talent, as these students could be valuable assets for businesses operating in Morocco.

Bodit (left) and Purple Education (right), two Korean companies at the event, showcase their solutions in agriculture and education.

Do Korean startups face unique challenges in Africa or Morocco?

While many equate success with profit, Korean startups find unique opportunities in Africa to test their ideas, services and products in real-world environments. Unlike the highly competitive Korean market, Africa offers more room for growth. This presents its own challenges, but numerous government programs are available to support these initiatives.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.