South Korean water tech innovations captured global attention at CES 2025, the world’s largest IT and consumer electronics exhibition in Las Vegas. Among them was the ultrasonic mixing technology by the Daejeon-based startup FUST Lab. This innovation uses focused ultrasound to mix substances evenly and break down highly toxic chemicals without using harmful chemicals. The technology has already attracted the attention of pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca for its potential to detoxify pharmaceutical wastewater.

FUST Lab was one of three South Korean startups to receive a CES Innovation Award, joining global frontrunners in advancing water sustainability. Gwangju’s INOSEP also stood out with its award-winning implantable artificial kidney using IoT technology for real-time monitoring. Another standout was BLUELABS, which developed a material derived from discarded oyster shells to remove heavy metals from water, addressing groundwater pollution.

Global interest in water technology is surging. According to Global Water Intelligence, private-sector investments in water infrastructure will reach W9,150 trillion by 2034, reflecting a roughly sixfold increase in water demand costs.

The innovations from the K-water pavilion earned praise for its potential to address global challenges, from drought in the Middle East to flooding in Southeast Asia. South Korean water tech is poised to be pivotal in tackling the global water crisis.

J.K. Park
Staff Reporter
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