LetinAR, a South Korean startup specializing in augmented reality, has secured $18.5 million in new funding as it prepares for its upcoming IPO in 2027. This latest round of funding, led by Korea Development Bank and Lotte Ventures, will support the company’s efforts to scale production and expedite the commercialization of its AR optics technology.
Founded in 2016 by CEO Jaehyeok Kim and CTO Jeonghun Ha, LetinAR is known for developing compact optical modules for AR and smart glasses. Their innovative ‘PinTILT’ technology aims to deliver brighter images through thinner, lighter, and more energy-efficient lenses compared to traditional waveguide or birdbath optics systems.
According to Kim, “We see AI glasses as the next frontier, and the optical module is a critical component that AI glasses makers need to perfect. It must be thinner, lighter, and more power-efficient than current solutions.”
While LetinAR does not produce complete AR or smart glasses, they focus on developing optical engines. The company has already collaborated with NTT QONOQ Devices and Dynabook, and is in discussions with major tech companies for future projects, including Aegis Rider, a spinout from ETH Zurich Computer Vision Lab working on AI-powered augmented reality motorcycle helmets.
With the smart glasses industry gaining momentum, LetinAR’s funding round comes at a crucial time. Major players such as Meta, Google, Samsung, and Apple are all investing in display-equipped glasses.
The company’s public listing in South Korea next year is set to further solidify its position in the AR market.
