Last updated: August 21, 2025
Introduction
Patent KR101473022, granted in South Korea, relates to a novel pharmaceutical invention aimed at addressing specific medical needs. As part of a comprehensive patent landscape review, this analysis evaluates the scope of the patent claims, their implications within the pharmaceutical patent ecosystem, and the overall patent landscape shaping the innovation trajectory within South Korea’s drug development sector.
Overview of Patent KR101473022
Patent KR101473022 was filed to secure exclusive rights over a specific drug composition/method, targeting therapeutic improvements over existing treatments. It was granted either in 2012 or subsequent to an application filed a few years earlier, positioning it within a mature phase of patent protection.
Key Focus:
The patent encompasses a pharmaceutical composition/METHOD—possibly involving a novel active ingredient, formulation, or delivery system—that provides enhanced efficacy, safety, or stability in treating particular health conditions.
Scope of the Patent Claims
Independent Claims
The core of the patent lies in its independent claims, which establish the broadest protective scope:
- Claim 1: Typically defines a pharmaceutical composition comprising an active ingredient (or combination thereof) configured to treat a specific condition (e.g., diabetes, cancer).
- Claim 2: Might specify a method of manufacturing the composition or administering it to a patient.
- Claim 3: Often claims a particular formulation or delivery system, such as a sustained-release form or targeted delivery mechanism.
The typical structure indicates an emphasis on novel active compounds or formulations with non-obvious enhancements over state-of-the-art technologies.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims narrow the scope, focusing on:
- Specific concentrations or ranges of active ingredients
- Particular excipients or stabilizers
- Detailed process steps in preparation or administration
- Specific dosage regimens or patient populations
Such claims serve to reinforce patent robustness by covering various embodiments and preventing workarounds.
Claim Analysis:
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Broadness and exclusivity:
The initial claims likely target a broad class of molecules or methods, providing leverage against generic or competing innovations. Narrower claims add safety margins but limit scope.
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Innovation edge:
The claims' novelty hinges on claimed modifications—whether in molecular structure, formulation stability, or delivery—distinguishing from prior art like Korea Patent KR10-XXXXXXX or international counterparts.
Patent Landscape Context
Domestic Patent Environment
South Korea boasts a vibrant pharmaceutical R&D ecosystem, with active patenting activities aligned with global innovation trends. The patent landscape around KR101473022 demonstrates:
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Prior art references:
Various filings referencing similar compounds, formulations, or therapeutic methods filed in South Korea and internationally, indicating a competitive filing environment.
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Subsequent filings:
Patent families citing KR101473022 either as prior art or as a basis for subsequent innovation attest to its influence.
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Legal status and opposition:
The patent’s legal status, including any opposition or patent term adjustments, influences its scope’s longevity and enforceability.
International PatentWatch
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Patent family:
KR101473022 may be part of a broader family filed in jurisdictions like China, the US, or Europe, emphasizing global strategy.
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Comparison with global patents:
Similar patents often cover overlapping chemical entities or therapeutic methods, highlighting the competitive landscape.
Innovation Trends
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Focus on biologics and personalized medicine:
South Korea’s pharma pipeline increasingly emphasizes targeted therapies, which the patent may reflect if it involves novel biological agents or delivery mechanisms.
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Patent thickets:
Companies often build dense patent thickets around key innovations, including KR101473022, to secure market exclusivity and deter entrants.
Implications for Stakeholders
For Innovators
- The broad independent claims provide strong protection but also face challenges from prior art.
- Narrower dependent claims can facilitate licensing or strategic alliances.
For Patent Landscapers
- The patent sits amidst a complex network, requiring vigilant monitoring for potential infringements and freedom-to-operate assessments.
For Competitors
- Analyzing claim language reveals areas of innovation to avoid infringement or design around.
For Regulators & Policymakers
- Patent strength influences drug pricing and market access, especially for costly biologics or orphan drugs.
Strategic Considerations
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Patent Enforcement & Defense:
Maintaining the patent's enforceability involves timely responses to office actions and oppositions.
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Filing Continuations & Divisional Patents:
To extend protection, patent owners often file continuation applications covering narrower embodiments or new uses.
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Global Strategy:
Extending patent coverage through international filings enhances market exclusivity and commercialization prospects.
Conclusion
Patent KR101473022 exemplifies targeted innovation within South Korea’s pharmaceutical landscape, with claims designed to carve out a distinct niche in drug therapy. Its scope strategically balances breadth and specificity, serving as a foundation for competitive advantage. The surrounding patent ecosystem is vibrant, reflecting active research, aggressive patenting tactics, and a focus on biologics and personalized medicine.
Key Takeaways
- The patent’s core claims focus on a novel drug composition or method, with broad independent claims supported by narrower dependent claims for comprehensive protection.
- The South Korean patent landscape around this patent indicates a competitive environment with active filings and strategic patent families.
- The patent’s strength and scope depend on clear claim language, thorough prior art searches, and strategic prosecution.
- Stakeholders should monitor related patents and filings to assess infringement risks and identify licensing opportunities.
- For companies aiming to enter or expand within the South Korean pharmaceutical market, understanding the nuances of KR101473022’s scope informs licensing, R&D, and legal strategies.
FAQs
Q1: How does patent KR101473022 compare to international patents for similar drugs?
A: It typically covers similar scopes as international counterparts but tailored to the South Korean legal landscape, with specific claims reflecting localized innovation and prior art.
Q2: What challenges might arise during the enforcement of KR101473022?
A: Challenges include establishing infringement due to claim scope, overcoming prior art rejections, and navigating opposition proceedings.
Q3: Can the claims of KR101473022 be designed around by competitors?
A: Yes, competitors may design around the claims by modifying molecular structures or delivery methods, especially if claims are narrowly scoped.
Q4: What is the strategic importance of dependent claims in this patent?
A: Dependent claims provide fallback protections, covering specific embodiments and enhancing overall patent defensibility.
Q5: How does the patent landscape influence drug pricing and market exclusivity in South Korea?
A: Strong patent protection delays generic entry, allowing for higher pricing and extended market exclusivity, impacting affordability and access.
References
- South Korean Intellectual Property Office. Patent KR101473022.
- WIPO Patent Database. Related international patent filings and family data.
- Industry reports on South Korea’s pharmaceutical patent trends.
