Datumo, a Seoul‐based AI startup, has just wrapped up a $15.5 million Series B funding round, marking a significant milestone. Notably, Salesforce Ventures has stepped in, making its first investment in a South Korean AI firm. Alongside Salesforce, ACVC Partners from Palo Alto, Japan’s SBI Investment, and key Korean investors have helped push Datumo’s total funding close to $25 million.
Founded in 2018 and formerly operating under the name SelectStar, Datumo is honing tools that assess and secure the reliability of AI models. This focus is especially valuable if you’ve ever struggled with the challenges of safe AI deployment. With a reputation for creating automated test cases that rigorously check models for performance and safety, the company is quickly becoming a trusted partner in industries where precision is paramount.
Michael Hwang, the cofounder and chief strategy officer, explains, “We use our AI system to build test cases, conduct evaluations, and analyse results.” His words highlight a balanced approach that combines innovative technology with practical insight, a blend that appeals not only to investors but also to sectors with strict regulatory standards like finance.
CEO David Kim adds a straightforward perspective: “AI in regulated industries cannot just be good enough. It needs to be safe and meet domain-specific expectations.” This clear-eyed vision is what’s driving Datumo’s expansion into Japan and the U.S., with Hwang now based in Silicon Valley to spearhead global growth.
In parallel, Datumo plays a pivotal role as part of a consortium chosen by South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT. Collaborating with major players like SK Telecom, Krafton, and AI chip startup Rebellions, the company is contributing to the development of a custom AI foundation model.
Datumo’s progress is set against a backdrop of renewed dynamism in South Korea’s AI landscape. With other innovative ventures like Movin and Superb AI also attracting substantial investment, the region is quickly emerging as a hub for smart, safe AI solutions.
If you’re keen to see how robust testing and a focus on safety can transform AI deployment, Datumo’s journey offers a practical roadmap for navigating the challenges of modern technology.
