IMM Private Equity

IMM Private Equity is an independent private equity firm based in Seoul, South Korea, founded in 2006. The firm specializes in significant minority investments and middle-market buyouts, focusing on generating substantial growth and returns. Over the past decade, IMM Private Equity has established a strong reputation within Korea's private equity sector, marked by consistent performance and a record of outstanding growth.

Hae-Joon Joseph Lee

Partner and Chief Investment Officer

38 past transactions

Ecorbit

Acquisition in 2024
ECORBIT is a waste management company based in Seoul, South Korea, specializing in sewage treatment, soil cleansing, and recycling services. The company focuses on wastewater processing and treatment, aiming to transform waste into valuable resources. By providing these essential services, ECORBIT contributes to environmental sustainability and public health, helping to mitigate the impact of waste on the environment.

IMDT

Series A in 2022
IMDT develops companion animal services focused on animal hospitals for both veterinarians and guardians. They create a platform that enables guardians to make simple, data-driven decisions.

Bear Robotics

Series B in 2022
Bear Robotics, Inc. is a company based in Redwood City, California, that designs and manufactures autonomous robots specifically for the food service industry. Incorporated in 2017, Bear Robotics developed Penny, an artificial intelligence-driven robot that efficiently transports food, dishes, and drinks, while also providing customer service in restaurants. The company's innovative solutions aim to address challenges within the restaurant industry, such as labor shortages and rising operational costs, by enhancing efficiency and improving the dining experience for customers. By automating tasks like running orders and bussing tables, Bear Robotics not only seeks to increase job satisfaction for restaurant employees but also aims to boost profitability for restaurant owners.

MegazoneCloud

Series C in 2022
MEGAZONECLOUD, headquartered in Seoul, South Korea is established in 2018 as spun out of the cloud business of Megazone Corporation was founded in 1998 with U$45M Series-A investment. It is a customer-centric company dedicated to empowering customers with cloud-optimized technology, people and process as we believe Cloud is the optimized digital transformation platform today. They provide a broad and rich set of consulting services and technology solutions for businesses' cloud adoption and digital transformation based on a strong partnership with Amazon Web Services(AWS) and 100+global technology partners. MEGAZONE has been trusted by more than 1500 enterprise, mid-market, and SME customers, including large Korean enterprises like Samsung, LG, Lotte Group, with diverse use cases ranging from simple migration to the most complex application projects. The company's in-depth technical expertise and years of experience working with customers of different sizes and industries have proven us to be the largest premier consulting partner of AWS in Asia Pacific. Outside Korea, we currently have offices in Palo Alto, Tokyo, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Hanoi aggressively expanding our presence in the global market.

Hanssem

Venture Round in 2022
Hanssem is a South Korean company specializing in the manufacture and distribution of home interior products. It offers a wide range of items including furniture for kitchens, bedrooms, living rooms, and bathrooms, as well as appliances, household accessories, and fabric products. The company operates through various sales channels, including large direct stores, specialized kitchen and interior stores, online shopping malls, and affiliated interior stores, ensuring accessibility to its diverse product offerings.

Aprinoia Therapeutics

Series C in 2021
Aprinoia Therapeutics Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the research, development, and manufacturing of innovative diagnostic tools for the detection of neurological diseases. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan, with additional locations in China and Japan, the company specializes in advanced imaging techniques, notably the 18F-PM-PBB3 tau positron-emission tomography (PET) imaging tracer. This tracer aids in diagnosing tauopathies and supports the development of therapeutic programs for conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and dementia. Additionally, Aprinoia manufactures an alpha-synuclein PET imaging tracer. The company's mission is to enhance brain health and improve clinical outcomes for patients suffering from various neurodegenerative diseases by leveraging precision medicine to target harmful protein aggregates involved in these conditions.

Pet Friends

Venture Round in 2021
Pet Friends is an online pet care platform that specializes in the rapid delivery of pet supplies. The company operates an innovative logistics and delivery system designed to meet the needs of pet owners, allowing them to receive essential products within one hour. In addition to its delivery services, Pet Friends provides consultations and free snack sampling tests, making it easier for busy pet owners to care for their pets. By streamlining access to pet-related products and services, Pet Friends enhances the overall pet ownership experience.

Korea Kolmar Holdings

Acquisition in 2020
Korea Kolmar Holdings is a South Korean company primarily engaged in the manufacture and sale of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Its cosmetics division specializes in original development and design manufacturing (ODM) and original equipment manufacturing (OEM) for a range of products, including skin care, makeup, hair care, and body care. The pharmaceutical division focuses on the development and production of various pharmaceutical products and quasi-drugs, encompassing general medicines, specialized medicines, and bioequivalence medicines. Through these divisions, Korea Kolmar Holdings aims to provide innovative solutions and high-quality products in both the cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors.

Kolmarpharma

Acquisition in 2020
Kolmarpharma is a pharmaceutical company specializing in solids, hard capsules, soft capsules, and external powders.

CARVI

Series B in 2020
CarVi, Inc. is a company based in San Jose, California, that specializes in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and a contextual data platform designed to analyze driving behavior and habits. Founded in 2014, CarVi offers a unique combination of vision-based ADAS technology and a data platform that focuses on driver behaviors and 3D road data. The company's solutions aim to enhance safe driving by reducing accident risks while also monitoring various driving-related factors, including smoke detection, drunk driving detection, parking violations, and keyless entry systems. CarVi has established itself as an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) in the automotive sector and is now concentrating on telematics, a rapidly growing market projected to reach $100 billion by 2025. The data collected by CarVi, encompassing camera-based driving insights and environmental conditions, is integral to developing advanced features for self-driving vehicles.

Hana Tour

Venture Round in 2020
HanaTour is the largest travel company in Korea providing travel service with over 3,200 employees nationally and internationally and They are the best travel company ranked top in international travel and air ticket sales for 15 consecutive years. HanaTour has led quantitative and qualitative growth of travel industry by providing better service through directly operated network covering 29 areas globally and with the best experts in travel and maintains top position in customer satisfaction and preference researches. Furthermore, HanaTour increases productivity and profitability by integrating innovative IT system with travel industry and expands market leadership continuously, and the company was listed in London Securities Exchange (LSE), one of 3 major global securities markets, recognizing transparency and reliability of HanaTour internationally as well as preparing a stepping stone to become a global company. HanaTour is trying to become the top global culture and tourism group by 2030 by expanding business into production, distribution of cultural products and developing tourism. They will become a company providing the best culture and tourism service in the world by enhancing global competency for human resources and competency in business related with cultural travel.

Genuone Sciences

Venture Round in 2020
Genuone Sciences is a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) focused on enhancing the performance of existing pharmaceutical medicines. The company offers a range of optimized services, including product development, analytical and regulatory support, as well as clinical and commercial manufacturing and packaging across various dosage forms. Genuone Sciences maintains an extensive portfolio of approved ethical and over-the-counter drugs, which it licenses and manufactures for clients. Through its commitment to good manufacturing practices and regulatory compliance, the company aims to ensure that patients benefit from effective and safe medicines.

Shinhan Financial Group

Venture Round in 2019
Shinhan Financial Group is a prominent South Korean banking institution that provides a wide range of financial services through its various subsidiaries. Its offerings encompass commercial banking, credit card services, securities, insurance, and credit services. Additionally, the group specializes in asset management, which includes securities investment trust management, investment advisory, and private equity fund management, both domestically and internationally. The majority of its revenue is derived from its banking operations, which cater to retail, corporate, and international clients, solidifying its position as a comprehensive financial services provider in the region.

Air First

Venture Round in 2019
Air First is a manufacturer and distributor of industrial gases.

Kbank

Series B in 2018
Kbank is the first digital-only bank in South Korea, operating an internet banking platform designed to facilitate digital funds transactions. The bank specializes in internet fund transfers and offers a range of services including handling deposits, loans, and credit cards. Additionally, Kbank provides wealth management products, enabling clients across the country to access convenient virtual banking solutions. Through its innovative approach, Kbank aims to simplify and enhance the banking experience for its customers.

Socar

Series C in 2018
Socar Inc. is a car sharing company based in Jeju-si, South Korea, specializing in eco-friendly vehicle rental services. Founded in March 2012, Socar enables users to book cars for personal use through its website and smartphone applications. The platform facilitates a community-driven approach, allowing travelers to share vehicles with others on similar routes. With over 1.7 million registered users, the service sees approximately 80,000 transactions each month, translating to a car booking every 30 seconds. Socar's innovative model has positioned it as a leading player in the Korean car sharing market.

Soomgo

Series A in 2018
Soomgo, Inc. operates an on-demand online platform that connects customers in South Korea with local service professionals across a wide range of categories. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Seoul, the company facilitates access to over 1,000 services, including music lessons, fitness training, academic tutoring, home services, event planning, wedding design, and beauty services. As the largest local service marketplace in South Korea, Soomgo aims to streamline the hiring process for users by enabling them to quickly and easily find and hire qualified professionals for their specific needs. The company is backed by prominent investors from both the United States and Korea, further bolstering its position in the market.

W Concept Korea

Venture Round in 2018
W Concept Korea is an online retailer based in Seoul, South Korea, specializing in the sale of fashion apparel and accessories. Founded in 2008, the company has established itself as a leading online select shop, offering a curated selection of Korean designer brands, including Low Classic and Jain Song. In addition to clothing, W Concept Korea also sells bags, books, stationery, toys, cosmetics, and other accessories, making it a comprehensive e-commerce platform for diverse fashion needs.

W Concept Korea

Acquisition in 2017
W Concept Korea is an online retailer based in Seoul, South Korea, specializing in the sale of fashion apparel and accessories. Founded in 2008, the company has established itself as a leading online select shop, offering a curated selection of Korean designer brands, including Low Classic and Jain Song. In addition to clothing, W Concept Korea also sells bags, books, stationery, toys, cosmetics, and other accessories, making it a comprehensive e-commerce platform for diverse fashion needs.

Able C&C

Post in 2017
Able C&C Co., Ltd. is a South Korean company specializing in the manufacturing, distribution, and retail of cosmetics and household goods. Established in 2000 and headquartered in Seoul, the company offers a diverse range of products, including skincare, body care, hair care, makeup, cleansing items, and men's cosmetics. Its product portfolio features several brands, such as MISSHA, A’pieu, and stila, among others. In addition to traditional retail, Able C&C also engages in e-commerce and provides advertising and public relations services. The company operates not only in South Korea but also across Asia, Europe, the Americas, Australia, New Zealand, and the Middle East. Originally known as Able Communications Corp., it rebranded to its current name in 2003 and is a subsidiary of Leaf & Vine Co., Ltd.

Lezhin Entertainment

Private Equity Round in 2016
Lezhin Entertainment, Inc. is a South Korean company founded in 2013, specializing in digital comics through its platform, Lezhin Comics. This webtoon service caters specifically to mature readers, offering a variety of webcomics and online magazines. The Lezhin Comics app allows users to access featured comics for free and create personalized collections on both Android and iOS devices, as well as through its website. In addition to developing and publishing webtoons, Lezhin Entertainment connects its content with various media platforms, including films and games, enhancing the reach and impact of its original stories.

KidariStudio

Venture Round in 2016
KidariStudio, Inc. is a media content company based in Seoul, South Korea, specializing in the development of e-books, e-learning materials, and Webtoon content. The company offers a diverse range of e-books across various genres, including fantasy, martial arts, romance, and light novels. Established as Daouincube, Inc., it rebranded to KidariStudio, Inc. in March 2018 and operates as a subsidiary of Daou Data Corp. Through its innovative approach, KidariStudio aims to engage audiences globally by providing high-quality digital storytelling experiences.

Woori Bank

Venture Round in 2016
Woori Bank is a commercial bank headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, that provides a comprehensive range of banking products and services tailored for retail, individual, and corporate clients. Established in 1899, the bank offers various deposit products, including savings, fixed deposits, and business accounts, alongside a suite of lending options such as mortgage loans and corporate financing for purposes like working capital and facility acquisition. In addition to traditional banking services, Woori Bank provides cash management, retirement pension services, foreign currency transactions, and specialized remittance solutions. The bank also engages in system software development, credit information services, and investment management, positioning itself as a key player in the South Korean financial landscape and contributing to the country's economic growth. Woori Bank operates as a subsidiary of Woori Financial Group Inc., which supports its diverse financial offerings.

Hyundai LNG Shipping

Acquisition in 2014
Hyundai LNG Shipping is a South Korean company based in Seoul that specializes in the transportation of liquefied natural gas (LNG). The company operates a fleet of LNG carriers, providing shipping services across various global navigation routes. By facilitating the movement of LNG, Hyundai LNG Shipping plays a crucial role in ensuring a stable domestic energy supply and contributes to the development of the Korean energy industry.

Hyundai LNG Shipping

Venture Round in 2014
Hyundai LNG Shipping is a South Korean company based in Seoul that specializes in the transportation of liquefied natural gas (LNG). The company operates a fleet of LNG carriers, providing shipping services across various global navigation routes. By facilitating the movement of LNG, Hyundai LNG Shipping plays a crucial role in ensuring a stable domestic energy supply and contributes to the development of the Korean energy industry.

Posco

Private Equity Round in 2013
POSCO, established in 1968 and based in Pohang, South Korea, is a leading multinational steel-making company. It has gained recognition as the world's top steel producer by focusing on plant efficiency and innovation in product development. The company specializes in manufacturing and distributing a wide range of steel rolled products and plates to clients around the globe. With a commitment to creating superior products, POSCO actively engages in the development of new materials and energy solutions, continually seeking to enhance its offerings and maintain its competitive edge in the industry.

Kyobo Life Insurance

Venture Round in 2012
Kyobo Life Insurance Co., Ltd. is a leading life insurance provider based in South Korea, established in 1958 and headquartered in Seoul. The company offers a comprehensive range of insurance products, including death, general illness, long-term care, health, pension, and accident insurance, catering primarily to middle- and upper-income consumers. With a robust infrastructure comprising seven divisions, 69 supporting units, and 518 branches, Kyobo Life aims to provide effective financial protection and savings solutions for both individual and corporate clients. The company, originally known as Daehan Kyoyuk Insurance Co., Ltd., rebranded to its current name in April 1995, reflecting its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its customers.

Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries

Venture Round in 2010
Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries is a shipbuilding company based in Yeongam-gun, South Korea. Established in 1999, the company specializes in the construction of large marine vessels, including tankers, bulk carriers, and container ships. In addition to shipbuilding, Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries manufactures various industrial transportation equipment, such as container-handling cranes, rubber-tyred gantry cranes, and bulk-handling systems. The company operates as a subsidiary of Hyundai Heavy Industries, enhancing its capabilities and reach in the global maritime industry.

Alvogen Group

Venture Round in 2009
Alvogen is a pharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures, and markets a diverse range of products, including generic, brand, over-the-counter, and biosimilar medications. The company is committed to addressing various health conditions, with a particular focus on oncology, cardiology, respiratory health, neurology, and gastroenterology. Alvogen's offerings include oral dosage forms, soft gelatin capsules, modified release tablets, transdermal systems, creams, ointments, and injectables. By providing affordable generic medications, Alvogen aims to help reduce healthcare costs globally while promoting healthier and more active lives for patients.

SRS KOREA

Venture Round in 2008
SRS KOREA is a privately held company that operates fast food restaurant chains. SRS Korea is one of the most recognized QSR brands in Korea with 30 years of history and ranked number one amongst western QSRs in the Korea Customer Satisfaction Index.

iNtRON Biotechnology

Venture Round in 2006
iNtRON Biotechnology, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company based in Seongnam, South Korea, established in 1999. The company focuses on the development of innovative treatments and preventive solutions for human diseases, primarily utilizing bacteriophage and endoricin drugs. In addition to its therapeutic endeavors, iNtRON Biotechnology also manufactures molecular diagnostic assays, including real-time PCR and multiplex PCR kits, aimed at the identification of infectious organisms. Through its commitment to advancing healthcare, iNtRON Biotechnology plays a significant role in both the treatment and diagnosis of diseases globally.

Tailim Packaging

Venture Round in 2006
Tailim Packaging Co., Ltd. is a South Korean company specializing in the manufacturing and sale of paper and packaging products. Established in 1976 and based in Siheung, the company was formerly known as Tailim Packaging Industrial Co., Ltd. It produces a variety of items, including corrugated boards, large-sized boxes, and self-assembly boxes. Tailim Packaging operates through two main business units: Paper and Packaging. The Paper unit focuses on producing liner products such as Kraft liner and corrugated medium, while the Packaging unit creates boxes for various applications, including agricultural products, electric home appliances, and door-to-door delivery services.

Handok

Venture Round in 2006
Handok is a prominent pharmaceutical company based in Korea, actively engaged in the healthcare sector. The company specializes in the development of prescription medications, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, medical devices, and in-vitro diagnostics. Handok focuses on creating products that target significant health issues, including diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. Through its extensive research and development efforts, Handok aims to enhance patient care and contribute to advancements in medical treatments.

Genexine

Venture Round in 2006
Genexine, Inc. is a clinical stage biotechnology company based in Seongnam, South Korea, specializing in the development and commercialization of immunotherapeutics and long-acting biologics. The company utilizes its proprietary hyFc platform to create differentiated agonistic protein therapeutics and has developed the Immune Enhancing Technology, a therapeutic DNA vaccine platform. Genexine's product pipeline includes several candidates currently in clinical trials: GX-H9 for adult and pediatric growth hormone deficiency, GX-E2 for induced anemia, GX-G3 for neutropenia, and GX-G6 for diabetes. Additionally, GX-188E is being studied in combination with KEYTRUDA for cervical cancer treatment. Genexine has also partnered with Binex Co. Ltd. to co-develop a COVID-19 vaccine. Founded in 1999, Genexine, Inc. aims to deliver innovative medicines that significantly improve patient outcomes.

Celltrion

Post in 2006
Celltrion Inc is a Korea-based company principally engaged in the research, development, and manufacture of therapeutic proteins. The company mainly manufactures biosimilar products, which are used to treat breast cancer, rheumatoid arthritis disease, Crohn's disease, Hodgkin's lymphoma, colorectal cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, respiratory syncytial virus, colon cancer, and others.

Samhwa Crown & Closure

Venture Round in 2006
Samhwa Crown & Closure is a South Korea-based manufacturer specializing in bottle caps. The company produces a variety of cap types, including crown caps, roll on pilfer proof (ROPP) caps, plastic caps, and white caps, which are utilized in the packaging of soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, bottled water, and nutritional tonics. In addition to its core manufacturing activities, Samhwa Crown & Closure is also involved in the metal printing business, enhancing its offerings in the beverage packaging sector.

Korea Aerospace Industries

Venture Round in 2006
Korea Aerospace Industries Ltd is a prominent manufacturer and supplier in the aerospace sector, primarily based in Korea. The company specializes in the production of military and civil aircraft, including fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft, and offers a range of aerospace parts. In addition to manufacturing, Korea Aerospace Industries provides maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for both commercial and military aircraft. The company also engages in research and development activities related to satellites and operates in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). With a commitment to innovation, it distributes its products domestically and internationally, contributing to the advancement of the aerospace industry.

Taihan Electric Wire

Post in 2006
Taihan Electric Wire is a company that specializes in the production of wire and cable products, focusing on electric power, renewable energy, and telecommunications. The company offers a comprehensive range of solutions that encompass the entire power supply value chain, which includes power system design, supply, connection, construction, and maintenance of cables and connectors. Taihan Electric Wire's product offerings include electric power cables, insulated wires, nuclear cables, steel-tape armor, copper rods, and heating systems. Through its subsidiaries, the company operates in various sectors, including power generation and distribution, and base metal systems, ensuring a diverse approach to meeting the needs of its clients in the energy and communication industries.
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