Bone AI, a dual-headquartered startup in Seoul and Palo Alto, has emerged as a new defense-tech challenger in South Korea’s rapidly expanding military industry. Founded by DK Lee, co-founder of MarqVision, the company is building an AI-driven platform that unifies autonomous software, robotics hardware, and advanced manufacturing for defense and government operations.
South Korea has become the second-largest arms supplier to European NATO members, yet early-stage defense innovation remains limited compared to major incumbents with more than $69 billion in backlogs. Bone AI aims to close that gap, beginning with next-generation aerial drones designed for missions including logistics, wildfire detection, and counter-drone operations.
The company has raised a $12 million seed round led by Third Prime, with participation from South Korean strategic investor Kolon Group, whose materials and manufacturing expertise aligns with Bone’s product roadmap. Despite being less than a year old, Bone AI is already generating revenue, including a seven-figure B2G contract and $3 million in its first year.
Bone AI expanded rapidly by acquiring drone maker D-Makers and its IP six months after launch. Its technology will now be deployed in a South Korean government-backed logistics initiative using both UAVs and UGVs powered by Bone’s autonomy stack.
Featured image: Credit: Bone AI
