France Joins Hands with Naver to Carry Out Anti-Google Movement

France, which takes the initiative in the “anti-Google” movement in Europe, has chosen Naver, South Korea’s largest web portal, as one of its partners to confront Google.

On Nov. 4, French President Francois Hollande visited D.CAMP, a venture support center located in Gangnam, Seoul, and signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Naver.

Earlier, Naver CEO Kim Sang-hun met French Culture and Communication Minister Fleur Pellerin, who visited Korea to celebrate the 130 years years of diplomatic relations between Korea and France last month, to discuss the IT industry conditions in Korea and France and cooperation plans. The agreement is an extension of the meeting, said Naver.

Under the MOU, Naver will provide a variety of information, including French culture, lifestyle, economy, education, language, tourism and events of “The Year of France in Korea,” which will kick off next year, via its online video platform “Naver TV Cast” first. With many other platforms, such as “Naver Music” and “Nstore,” the company plans to actively introduce French musicians, artists, movies and TV programs.

Also, the two parties will share experiences and expertise in order to preserve and spread cultural heritage. Naver has agreed to pass on expertise for digitalizing cultural heritage, and participate in joint projects to digitalize and preserve national and global cultural assets.

In addition, Naver and France have decided to cooperate for the growth of startups in both countries. Naver will establish partnerships with French venture businesses and provide opportunities to them for taking part in its venture support programs.