Camter is a startup that operates a lending and storage platform for camping gear based on a sharing economy model. CEO Jeong Seong-sik, who previously worked at Oracle and Project Company, founded the company in June 2023.
He noted, "While studying in the United Kingdom, I researched platforms like Airbnb and Uber," adding that he was attracted to the idea of both service providers and users benefiting, which led him to create a sharing economy service for camping gear.
Camter's approach involves participating suppliers such as individuals and manufacturers offering camping gear, rather than simply lending products owned by the company. CEO Jeong stated, "Many people have hesitated to purchase camping gear because it can be too expensive, even though they want to go camping. We aim to innovate consumer culture from a focus on existing purchases to reasonable lending."
Since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the camping population in South Korea has significantly increased. According to the Korea Trade Statistics Promotion Agency, the domestic camping population exceeded 7 million as of 2022, a 32% increase compared to 5.3 million in 2019. As camping gained popularity, the number of camping grounds nationwide recorded its highest ever at 3,591 as of the end of September last year. The market size for camping gear and supplies in South Korea is also estimated to have surpassed 6 trillion won.
CEO Jeong explained, "By introducing the concept of sharing economy into camping, we sought to effectively utilize resources that are not in use or have low usage frequency," adding that the company is making various efforts to achieve social values such as tourism activation, regional economic development, and environmental protection.
Last month, Camter also launched a storage and cleaning service for camping gear. For those who do not frequently use camping gear, bulky items can become a hassle taking up significant space at home or in the car. CEO Jeong mentioned, "Through a safe and efficient storage service, we provide not only space solutions but also reasonable revenue generation opportunities."
Camter is focusing on collaboration with local governments. This year, it operated a youth camping gear lending project in partnership with Asan City. The lending project was implemented as part of youth welfare enhancement policies aimed at creating a city suitable for young couples and multicultural families, receiving positive responses.
Additionally, the company is preparing a one-stop service that combines camping ground reservations, camping gear lending, and commerce all at once. It will also introduce a luxury camping package for foreigners. CEO Jeong emphasized, "We plan to showcase a Korean-style camping tourism service that allows foreign tourists to experience Korea's traditions and nature."
A service combining artificial intelligence (AI) technology will also be launched. Utilizing AI technology, the service will recommend camping gear. Users can simply register their preferred camping images, and the AI will analyze those images to recommend matching or similar products.
CEO Jeong stated, "We aim to expand our lending offerings, currently limited to camping gear, to all categories," noting that the company will include electronic products, artworks, books, and other items as part of its growth as a corporation focused on achieving ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) goals.
Camter has approximately 25,000 app downloads and around 12,000 cumulative members. The company is a resident business within the Dongguk University Campus Town, receiving support from the Seoul city government and Dongguk University Campus Town. The Dongguk University Campus Town project team plans and implements various startup and incubation programs, including providing startup support spaces, practical training for entrepreneurs, enhancing startup items, and continuous advice from experts in various business fields.