Camter is a startup operating a platform for the lending and storage of camping goods based on the sharing economy model. CEO Jeong Seong-sik, who worked at Oracle and Project Company, founded the company in June 2023.
He noted, "While studying in the UK, I researched platforms like Airbnb and Uber," and added, "I was attracted to the idea of creating a sharing economy service for camping goods that benefits both providers and users."
Rather than lending products owned by the company, Camter secures camping goods by having individuals, lending companies, and manufacturers participate as suppliers. CEO Jeong remarked, "Anyone might have experienced wanting to go camping but hesitating to buy due to high costs," and stated, "We aim to innovate consumer culture from traditional purchase-centered consumption to rational lending."
Since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), the camping population in South Korea has increased significantly. According to the Korea Trade Statistics Promotion Agency, the camping population reached over 7 million in 2022. This marks a 32% increase compared to 5.3 million in 2019. As camping gained popularity, the number of campgrounds nationwide reached a record high of 3,591 by the end of September last year. The domestic camping equipment and supplies market is also estimated to have surpassed 6 trillion won.
CEO Jeong explained, "By adopting the concept of sharing economy for camping, we aimed to effectively utilize resources that are unused or have low usage frequency," adding, "We are making various efforts to realize social values such as tourism revitalization, local economic development, and environmental protection."
Last month, Camter launched a storage and cleaning service for camping goods. For those who do not frequently use camping equipment, large items can become a hassle that takes up significant space in their homes or cars. CEO Jeong stated, "Through a safe and efficient storage service, we provide opportunities for securing storage space as well as generating reasonable revenue."
Camter is focusing on collaboration with local governments. This year, it operated a youth camping goods lending business in cooperation with Asan for the first time. As part of a youth welfare promotion policy, the lending business aims to create cities where young people, including newlyweds and multicultural families, can thrive, receiving a positive response.
Additionally, a one-stop service that combines campground reservations, camping goods lending, and commerce is in preparation. A luxury camping package for foreigners will also be introduced. CEO Jeong emphasized, "We plan to launch a Korean-style camping tourism service that allows foreign tourists to experience Korea's traditions and nature."
A service that incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) technology will also be introduced. This service utilizes AI technology to recommend camping goods. By simply registering a preferred camping image, the AI analyzes the image and suggests similar or identical products.
CEO Jeong remarked, "We aim to expand the lending items, currently limited to camping goods, to all categories," stating, "We will grow into a company that realizes ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) by including electronics, artwork, books, and more."
The Camter app has been downloaded approximately 25,000 times, and the cumulative number of members is about 12,000. Camter is a resident company affiliated with Dongguk University’s Campus Town and receives support from Seoul City and Dongguk University Campus Town. The Dongguk University Campus Town project team plans and promotes various startup and incubation programs, including providing support spaces for promising startups, practical education in entrepreneurship, enhancement of startup items, and ongoing consulting from experts in various business fields.