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Seoul-based Datumo raises $15.5M to take on Scale AI, backed by Salesforce
Seoul-based Datumo has raised $15.5 million in funding, totaling approximately $28 million, to develop AI tools that enhance model safety and evaluation. Founded in 2018 by David Kim and former KAIST alumni, the startup initially focused on data labeling and has expanded its offerings due to client demand, now serving over 300 clients including major players like Samsung and LG. The investment aims to accelerate research and development and global operations.
Key points
- Datumo raised $15.5 million from Salesforce Ventures and others, increasing total funding to about $28 million.
- Initially focused on AI data labeling, the company pivoted to broader AI safety tools based on client feedback.
- The startup's revenue surpassed $6 million in 2024 and now serves over 300 clients in South Korea.
- Datumo has developed Korea's first benchmark dataset for AI trust and safety evaluation.
- The funding will enhance R&D for automated evaluation and expand operations in South Korea, Japan, and the U.S.
Why it matters
- The recent acquisition-style investment in Scale AI by Meta highlights rising competition in AI training data.
- The growing focus on AI explainability aligns with McKinsey's report indicating organizations struggle with generative AI readiness.
- Datumo's model is similar to AI firms focused on evaluation and monitoring, such as Scale AI and Galileo, but differentiates with licensed datasets.
Datumo's strategic funding and innovative approach to AI safety and evaluation positions it strongly within the competitive landscape of AI technology, aiming to address significant industry needs as it expands its global presence.