Washswat

About Washswat

Washswat Inc. is a South Korean company operating an on-demand, app-based laundry and dry-cleaning service. Established in 2015 by co-founders Namgung Jin-ah and Ye Sang-wook, the company was started with a team that included founding members of the e-commerce platform Coupang. The venture targets the growing market of individuals, particularly in their 20s and 30s, and small households who value convenience and seek to outsource chores.

The company's business model is centered on a pick-up and delivery service, accessible through a mobile app. Customers can schedule a contactless collection of their laundry, which is typically picked up overnight and returned clean the following day. Revenue is generated on a per-item or service basis with a transparent, fixed-price structure, avoiding upcharges for factors like stain removal or garment length. The service initially launched in Seoul's Gangnam district and has since expanded to other cities including Gyeonggi, Incheon, Daejeon, and Cheonan.

Washswat provides a comprehensive suite of garment care services, including standard water washing, dry cleaning, premium cleaning for high-value items, and repairs. The service handles a wide range of items beyond clothing, such as bedding, shoes, rugs, and even specialized items like strollers and car seats. A key operational component is the company's investment in its own smart factories. These facilities use advanced equipment and automated processes to manage the large volume of orders, which has been crucial for improving efficiency and reducing operational losses. This infrastructure allows the company to handle hundreds of thousands of clothing items per month.

The company has secured significant funding to fuel its growth, raising over KRW 51 billion (approximately USD 38.7 million) in total. Notable funding rounds include a Series B in May 2021 and a Series C bridge round in November 2024, with participation from investors like We Ventures, UTC Investment, and Strong Ventures. This capital has been allocated towards nationwide service expansion and enhancing its smart factory operations and logistics.