MSD Health Innovation Summit Korea 2026
Calling for Innovation
Powering the next era of care with evidence-based AI
Join the innovation challenge solving critical healthcare needs across MSD's therapeutic areas.
Ecosystem Leaders Joining the Summit
The summit convenes healthcare, investment, public-sector, technology, and innovation partners across Korea and the global health ecosystem.
INNOVATION CHALLENGE
Powering the Next Era of Care with Evidence-Based AI
We invite AI-driven startups to demonstrate solutions that address real healthcare challenges, improve patient outcomes, and leverage clinical or real-world evidence.
Reduce Disease Burden & Enhance Awareness
AI-driven early detection and preventative health strategies to reduce disease burden.Diagnosis
Intelligent diagnostic tools that improve accuracy, speed, and accessibility of clinical decisions.Health Monitoring & Support Solutions
Evidence-based AI solutions that enhance treatment protocols and therapeutic outcomes.Personalized Care
Tailored patient experiences powered by real-world data and machine learning models.Population Health Intelligence
Analysis of large health datasets to generate insights on population-level health trends.AI Clinical Development
Acceleration of drug discovery, clinical development, Dx, biomarkers, and patient recruitment for new medicines.Therapeutic Areas of Focus
Oncology
MSD's team of researchers and scientists are pushing the boundaries of cancer research to discover more effective anticancer therapies.
Vaccines
Vaccines are one of the greatest public health success stories — and MSD has been discovering, developing, supplying and delivering vaccines to help prevent disease for over 130 years.
Infectious Disease
MSD's focus has always been on the prevention and treatment of diseases that threaten people and communities around the world.
Cardio-metabolic disorders
MSD has a long history of making an impact in cardio-metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Neuroscience
MSD is tackling the complexities and therapeutic challenges of some of the most devastating neurological disorders.
Immunology
MSD is at the forefront of research, seeking to translate scientific discoveries into treatments for people with immune-mediated inflammatory disorders.
Ophthalmology
MSD is dedicated to exploring and advancing new therapeutics for a range of retinal diseases, which remain among the most significant therapeutic challenges in ophthalmology.
ELIGIBILITY
Who Should Apply
We're looking for high-potential startups and companies building AI-powered health solutions that can transform healthcare in Korea.
AI-driven digital health, medtech, or health tech solutions
Aligned with MSD's therapeutic areas and Korean health priorities
Operating in or targeting the Korean healthcare market
Registered startup or company in the digital health sector
Able to submit and present all materials in English
Provide non-confidential information only
HOW TO APPLY
Required Application Materials
Prepare the following materials before submitting your application. All materials must be in English.
Online Application Form
Complete the full online application form with your company and solution details.Pitch Deck
Prepare a compelling pitch deck showcasing your innovation. Maximum 10 slides.Executive Summary
Submit a concise executive summary of your solution. Maximum 2 pages.Founding Team Bios
Provide bios or CVs for all key founding team members.ASSESSMENT
Evaluation Criteria
Applications are assessed by a panel of experts across six key dimensions.
Innovation & Uniqueness
Originality of the solution and differentiation in the market.MSD Alignment
Relevance to MSD's therapeutic focus areas and strategic goals.Impact in Korea
Potential to address Korean healthcare priorities and patient needs.Technical Feasibility
Scalability of the technology and readiness for real-world deployment.AI Governance
Approach to data quality, trust, transparency, and responsible AI.Team Expertise
Founding team capability, domain expertise, and execution track record.Challenge Timeline
From applications to finalist coaching and summit day in Seoul.
Pre-Application Consultation
Applicants may request consultation by email at tanya.ho@msd.com.
Submission Deadline
Final date for companies to submit application materials.
Document Review
Applications are reviewed for fit, readiness, and innovation potential.
Pitching Companies Selected
Selected companies are confirmed and notified individually.
Pitch Preparation
Selected companies join pre-briefing and coaching ahead of summit day.
Summit Pitch & Awards
Companies pitch live and award-winning solutions are selected.
What Startups Can Gain
Selected companies gain recognition, targeted support, and access to follow-up opportunities through MSD Korea and Korea Health Industry Development Institute.
Prize Money and Follow-Up Mentoring
Prize money of 30 million KRW each will be awarded to 3 companies, along with follow-up mentoring from GHIF and related organizations.
Winning prize money does not guarantee the formation of a business relationship, including future collaboration or investment, with MSD.
Global Expansion Support Advantage
Bonus points will be awarded for the Biohealth Global Expansion Support Program.
This applies to all pitching companies.
Mentorship from Investment Experts
Receive hands-on guidance to sharpen your value proposition, accelerate growth, and position your company from a strategic investor perspective.
Showcase to Stakeholders and Investors
Present your solution in front of healthcare ecosystem stakeholders and investors, with one standout startup receiving formal recognition for delivering the most impactful AI-driven health solution.
Program at a Glance
A focused summit program combining ecosystem discussion, startup pitches, and networking across healthcare innovation leaders.
Ready to Shape the Future of Healthcare in Korea?
Join us at at the summit