Tokyo FinTech Firm "Funds" Debuts in South Korea with Baree Mobility Investment Launch
Funds Inc., the operator of the fixed-yield investment platform "Funds," has launched its first South Korean-linked vehicle: the Baree Mobility EC Fund #1. This marks a significant milestone for the Tokyo-based FinTech firm as it accelerates its push to become a premier global platform for growth-stage investment and financing.
The borrower for this inaugural Korean fund is Baree Inc., a Seoul-based mobility-tech company that operates "REITWAGEN," a specialized e-commerce and financial solutions platform for the motorcycle industry.
Expansion into the APAC Region
This move represents Funds’ first major venture into South Korea, following successful entries into Taiwan and Hong Kong. The deal was spearheaded by FUNDS IGC PTE. LTD. (FIGC), the company’s Singapore-based international business headquarters established in June 2025.
According to Funds, the partnership with Baree was finalized after rigorous due diligence by the FIGC team. The firm cited Baree’s robust technical foundation and financial expertise as key drivers for the selection. To ensure transparency and strengthen the partnership, Funds Inc. will appoint one of its directors as a board observer at Baree starting April 14, 2026.
Spotlight on Baree: A Rising 'Baby Unicorn'
Baree is a profitable enterprise that has gained significant traction in the South Korean market. The company specializes in motorcycle subscriptions—a model based on installment sales with retention of ownership.
Baree’s market position is bolstered by several factors:
- Market Reach: As of 2025, its platform "REITWAGEN" recorded an average of 261,000 Monthly Active Users (MAU) in a country with approximately 2.26 million registered motorcycles.
- Strategic Partnerships: The company has forged Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) alliances with major South Korean conglomerates, including the Naver Group and Lotte Group.
- Investor Pedigree: Baree has secured backing from high-profile venture capital firms such as Strong Ventures, Lotte Ventures, and Hyundai Venture Investment.
- Government Recognition: In June 2024, the South Korean Ministry of SMEs and Startups designated Baree as a "Baby Unicorn," a status reserved for unlisted companies with high potential to reach a $1 billion valuation.
Fund Structure and Investor Details
The Baree Mobility EC Fund #1 is structured as a "Professional Fund" for eligible investors. Capital raised through the fund will be used by Baree to scale its motorcycle subscription business. As a security measure, the loan will be collateralized by installment receivables acquired through Baree’s business operations.
The first-come, first-served recruitment period for the fund is scheduled to run from March 19 to April 1, 2026.
Upcoming Investor Webinar
To provide further insight into its international strategy and the specific mechanics of this fund, Funds Inc. will host a webinar on April 7, 2026. The session will feature Director and CLO Tomotatsu Takao and Executive Officer Naoki Sakamoto, focusing on the FIGC headquarters and the outlook for overseas corporate funds.
With this launch, Funds Inc. continues to execute its roadmap of bridging Japanese capital with high-growth opportunities across the Asia-Pacific region.
Norbert Gehrke
