A new networking group for entrepreneurs in Seoul called Over Lunch is kicking off its app with a launch party Thursday.

Over Lunch, created by local expats Hana Sakuragi and Nathan Hendrix, aims to help English-speaking professionals, from expats to locals and people traveling to Seoul on business, make meaningful connections over lunch. It is both an online and offline community for like-minded people to meet new people and enrich their lives, the founders said.

“We see an increasing number of foreigners doing business each year. It’s no longer limited to bars, restaurants … and English education,” said Sakuragi. “Now we are seeing more tech start-ups, specialty products and services such as delivery and concierge services. It’s a really exciting time.”

The idea for the start-up came about when Sakuragi was walking around City Hall near her workplace at lunchtime and noticed people mostly eating alone or with colleagues. As she loves meeting new people, she thought it would be nice to make new lunch buddies in the area, she said.

So she and Hendrix went to work on an app that lets entrepreneurs create a profile and search for others based on their location, profession and interests. Over Lunch also plans to offer special deals and social events for its members.

The app will be launched by the end of the month on Android and iOS, the organizers said.

The launch party will be held at Libertine Bar in Itaewon on Thursday from 7-10 p.m. The cost, payable by bank transfer, is 10,000 won, which includes a drink, hors d’oeuvres and a chance to win prizes.

“We hope that people will celebrate with us as well as meet new people,” Sakuragi said.

For more information, visit Over Lunch Seoul on Facebook.

By Elaine Ramirez (elaine@heraldcorp.com)