Southpole invests in U.S.-based Flux AI, appoints CEO Julie Jihyun Kang to Flux AI Board and launches Flux AI Asia

Southpole Ltd., a next-generation venture platform at the intersection of AI, commerce, and the carbon economy, has announced a strategic pre-seed investment in U.S.-based generative AI company Flux AI, Inc. The deal values Flux AI at US$10 million. As part of the partnership, Julie Jihyun Kang, Founder and CEO of Southpole, has been appointed to the Board of Directors at Flux AI and named CEO of the newly established Flux AI Asia.

Flux AI is the creator of CRAISEE, the world’s first all-in-one generative AI platform designed to support content creation across text, video, audio, and images. With a focus on intuitive and seamless user experiences, CRAISEE empowers anyone—from individuals to teams—to harness the full power of generative AI.

“Flux AI’s vision goes far beyond developing another technical AI platform—it’s about creating a truly user-centered creative AI ecosystem that integrates seamlessly into everyday life,” said Kang (pictured). “That mission aligns perfectly with Southpole’s own values. The launch of Flux AI Asia marks a pivotal step in accelerating generative AI adoption across Asia and opening new possibilities for creators, startups, and global brands alike.”

Tim Stickelbrucks, co-founder and CEO of Flux AI, said: “Julie brings an extraordinary record of building successful global ventures and driving innovation at the intersection of technology and creativity. She is the ideal leader to expand CRAISEE into one of the world’s most dynamic regions. Her leadership will be key to establishing a strong foundation for Flux AI in Asia.

Kang is widely recognized as one of Asia’s leading creative executives, having led global campaigns for brands including BMW, IKEA, Genesis, SK hynix, Samyang Foods, and Dot Incorporation — a pioneering Korean startup advancing tactile braille innovation through assistive technology. She currently serves as CEO of Serviceplan Korea and is the founder of Southpole, where she continues to redefine the convergence of technology, advertising, and sustainability.

Flux AI Asia will be headquartered in Seoul and serve as a regional hub for product development, go-to-market strategy, and partnership expansion across the APAC region. The launch reflects Southpole’s mission to incubate transformative ventures across AI, digital commerce, and the carbon economy, building a foundation for sustainable, innovation-driven growth.