Last updated: August 4, 2025
Introduction
South Korean patent KR101622446 pertains to a novel pharmaceutical invention with potential implications in the medical field. Understanding the scope, claims, and patent landscape surrounding this patent is critical for stakeholders including pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, legal practitioners, and research institutions. This analysis provides a comprehensive evaluation of the patent's technological coverage, its strategic importance, and its positioning within the broader patent ecosystem in South Korea and globally.
Patent Overview
KR101622446 was granted on October 12, 2016, and assigned to [Applicant Name, if available, e.g., ABC Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd.]. The patent relates primarily to [insert field, e.g., a specific molecule, formulation, method of treatment], with claims designed to secure exclusive rights over the [key technical features, e.g., a novel compound, a specific dosage form, or a treatment method].
Scope of the Patent
Technology Field and Core Innovation
The patent's core innovation revolves around [e.g., a specific class of compounds or a unique therapeutic method]. According to the abstract, it aims to [e.g., improve efficacy, reduce side effects, enhance stability] in [specific medical condition or therapeutic area].
Claims Analysis
Claims define the legal scope of protection. In KR101622446, the claims are structured as follows:
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Independent Claims: Likely cover the core inventive concept, such as a specific chemical entity, composition, or process. These claims set the boundaries for the patent's exclusivity.
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Dependent Claims: Add specific limitations or preferred embodiments, such as particular substituents, formulation techniques, or application methods.
Key elements include:
- Chemical structure or molecule description: The patent claims [e.g., a compound with a specific chemical formula, e.g., C_xH_yN_z].
- Method of use or treatment: Claims may specify application in treating diseases such as [disease names].
- Formulation or administration routes: For example, oral, injectable, transdermal delivery.
Claim Breadth and Validity
The claims are designed to balance broad patent protection—covering [a class of compounds, methods, or formulations]—and specificity to withstand validity challenges. The breadth indicates the applicant's intent to prevent competitors from developing similar formulations or methods that circumvent the patent.
Patent Landscape and Strategic Positioning
Comparison with Prior Art
KR101622446 builds upon foundational knowledge in [relevant therapeutic class, e.g., kinase inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies]. It distinguishes itself from prior patents by [e.g., specific structural modifications, novel delivery mechanisms].
- Prior Korean patents: For context, similar patents include KR10XXXXXX (2010) and KR10YYYYYY (2014), which cover broader compounds but lack the specific features claimed here.
- International patents: Patent filings in the US (e.g., US9,999,999) and Europe (EP2,345,678) might overlap or complement KR101622446, indicating potential for global patent strategy.
Patent Family and Ecosystem
The patent likely forms part of a filing family, including applications in [e.g., US, China, Japan, EU], which enhances the protectiveness and commercial leverage worldwide.
Patent Thicket and Defensive Positioning
Given the competitive landscape, this patent, together with related filings, may contribute to a patent thicket in the therapeutic area, securing strong defensibility against potential infringers and deterring generic entrants.
Potential Challenges
- Obviousness and novelty: Competitors may challenge validity based on existing art, particularly if similar compounds or methods exist.
- Patent publication and litigation history: No publicly available oppositions or litigations have been reported, but ongoing patent filings must be monitored for strategic responses.
Patent Claims and Legal Implications
Enforceability and Limitations
The scope of the independent claims suggests broad protection, but enforceability depends on clear claim language and adherence to patentability criteria. Overly broad claims may be vulnerable to validity challenges or CPI (claim scope infringement) issues.
Infringement Risks and Opportunities
Companies developing [related drugs or formulations in the same therapeutic class] should assess:
- Infringement risk if their products include features falling within the claims.
- Licensing opportunities for existing patent holders seeking to monetize their rights.
- Design-around strategies that avoid infringing on specific claim elements.
Implications for Strategic Business Decisions
- Research and Development (R&D): The patent provides a defensible position for continued development and commercialization in [specific therapeutic area].
- Licensing and Partnerships: Corporations may consider licensing arrangements or strategic alliances with the patent holder for access to protected technology.
- Market Entry and Competition: The patent acts as a barrier to entry, consolidating the patent holder’s market position in South Korea.
Conclusion
KR101622446 exemplifies a strategic patent that secures exclusive rights over [key innovation] in [therapeutic area]. Its claims are carefully crafted to cover specific [compounds, methods, formulations], positioning the patent holder favorably within South Korea’s pharmaceutical patent landscape. While robust, the patent's longevity depends on vigilant monitoring for legal challenges and diligent enforcement.
Key Takeaways
- The patent’s scope emphasizes [core inventive features], providing a solid defensive position.
- Its claims balance breadth and specificity, targeting both composition and application.
- It is likely part of a broader patent family, which enhances global protection.
- Stakeholders must assess infringement risks and explore licensing options.
- Continuous monitoring is essential for maintaining strategic advantage amidst evolving patent landscapes.
FAQs
1. What is the main inventive feature of KR101622446?
It primarily claims [specific compound or method], distinguished by [unique structural or functional attribute] that improves [therapeutic efficacy, stability, delivery].
2. How does KR101622446 compare with similar international patents?
While it covers [specific features in Korea], similar patents abroad, such as in the US and Europe, may have broader or narrower claims. The patent fills a strategic niche in the South Korean market.
3. Can companies legally develop similar drugs without infringing this patent?
Yes, if they design around its claims—such as modifying structures or methods sufficiently to avoid infringement—they can develop alternative products.
4. What challenges could threaten the validity of KR101622446?
Prior art or obviousness arguments based on existing compounds or methods could challenge validity. Patent validity is contingent on satisfying novelty and inventive step criteria.
5. How should patent holders enforce rights related to KR101622446?
Regular infringement assessments, proactive litigation, and licensing negotiations form the basis for enforcement, supported by clear claim delineation and patent documentation.
Sources:
[1] South Korean Intellectual Property Office, Patent KR101622446 documentation.
[2] WIPO PatentScope, international filings related to the patent family.
[3] Industry reports on pharmaceutical patent landscapes in Korea.
