Last updated: August 9, 2025
Introduction
The patent KR102085557, granted in South Korea, pertains to a pharmaceutical invention that potentially impacts the landscape of medicinal compounds or formulations. Understanding its scope, claims, and position within the patent ecosystem is crucial for stakeholders—including pharmaceutical companies, generic manufacturers, and patent analysts—aiming to navigate patent rights, potential licensing, or infringement risks within South Korea.
This report provides an in-depth analysis of KR102085557, focusing on its claim structure, technological scope, and how it integrates within the existing patent landscape.
Patent Overview
Patent Number: KR102085557
Application Date: [Insert application date if available; otherwise, the grant date]
Grant Date: [Insert grant date]
Patent Term: Typically 20 years from the filing date, subject to maintenance fees and possible extensions.
The patent claims to a specific chemical compound, formulation, or method of use, designed to address unmet needs within a therapeutic domain. To understand its scope and enforceability, a detailed review of its claims—both independent and dependent—is essential.
Scope and Claims Analysis
Claim Structure Overview
South Korean patents generally include:
- Independent claims: Define the substance, composition, or method in broad terms, establishing the core invention.
- Dependent claims: Narrow the scope, adding specific limitations or embodiments, and often providing alternative implementations.
KR102085557 likely consists of claims covering the following:
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Chemical compound or derivatives: The patent might claim a novel molecule, or a specific pharmaceutically active compound with unique structural features.
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Pharmaceutical composition: Claims may extend to formulations containing the compound, including excipients, delivery systems, or specific dosage forms.
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Method of use: The patent could claim methods for treating particular diseases or conditions using the claimed compound.
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Manufacturing process: Additional claims might cover novel synthesis routes or purification methods for the compound.
Key Elements of the Claims
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Novelty: The claims likely emphasize the unique chemical structure or method that distinguishes it from prior art.
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Inventive Step: The inventive aspect could revolve around improved efficacy, reduced toxicity, or simplified synthesis.
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Utility: The claims probably specify therapeutic applications, such as treatment of a specific disease (e.g., cancer, infectious disease, neurological disorders).
Claim Limitations and Breadth
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The broadest independent claim probably covers the core chemical class or method, establishing the patent’s main protective scope.
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Dependent claims specify particular substituents, salts, formulations, or methods, providing fallback positions and reinforcing patent robustness.
Legal and Technical Robustness
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The patent’s enforceability hinges on clear articulation of the inventive features and precise claim boundaries.
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Overly broad claims risk rejection or invalidation if prior art shows the claimed invention is obvious or anticipated.
Patent Landscape Considerations
Existing Related Patents
The patent landscape for the compound class or therapeutic area indicates the degree of freedom or potential conflicts:
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Pre-existing patents: If similar compounds or formulations are patented, KR102085557 may face challenges in asserting broad rights.
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Prior art analysis: Examining global patents, especially from major jurisdictions like the US and Europe, reveals whether the claimed compound’s novelty holds.
Competitor Patent Activity
Identifying filings by key players in the same therapeutic class or chemical family highlights:
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Patent thickets, which could restrict generic entry.
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Opportunities for licensing negotiations or cross-licensing.
Patent Expiration and Market Exclusivity
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The patent’s expiration date, typically 20 years from filing, determines the duration of exclusive rights.
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Any supplementary patent protections (e.g., data exclusivity, SPCs) could extend market exclusivity.
Patent Filing Strategy
Positioning in the South Korean Patent Ecosystem
South Korea’s patent environment favors robust patent rights enforcement. KR102085557’s strategic strength depends on:
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Claim Clarity and Specificity: Well-crafted claims withstand patentability challenges.
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Enforceability: Strong prosecution history and compliance with Korean patent law enhance enforceability.
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Competitive Landscape: Market analysis reveals whether the patent confers meaningful competitive advantage.
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Potential for Patent Challenges: Post-grant invalidation proceedings could erode scope if prior art or obviousness is identified.
Regulatory and Commercial Implications
While patent rights determine legal protectability, regulatory approval and market considerations define commercial success. The integration of the patent with clinical development, manufacturing, and marketing strategies influences its value.
Conclusion
KR102085557 appears to encapsulate a targeted chemical or pharmaceutical innovation, with its scope defined by carefully crafted claims covering compounds, formulations, or uses. Its robustness depends on claim specificity, prior art landscape, and enforcement strategies within South Korea.
Stakeholders must continually monitor patent filings in the same therapeutic area to evaluate freedom-to-operate and potential infringement risks. Moreover, understanding its expiration timeline and supplementary protections can guide licensing and investment decisions.
Key Takeaways
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Scope Precision: The patent’s enforceability relies on well-defined, non-obvious claims that clearly delineate the inventive features over prior art.
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Landscape Positioning: The patent exists within an active patent environment; thorough freedom-to-operate analysis is necessary to assess risks and opportunities.
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Strategic Exploitation: Combining patent rights with regulatory and market strategies enhances commercial prospects and mitigates infringement risks.
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Monitoring Development: Regular patent landscape updates and competitive intelligence are vital for maintaining strategic advantage.
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Legal Vigilance: Strong prosecution history, diligent maintenance, and readiness to defend or challenge claims are critical for maximizing patent value.
FAQs
1. What is the primary inventive element of KR102085557?
The patent’s core inventive element likely relates to a specific chemical compound or formulation with unique structural features that confer therapeutic advantages, though precise details require access to the claimed invention text.
2. How does KR102085557 compare with similar global patents?
This depends on the specific chemical class or therapeutic application; a detailed prior art search across international patents is necessary to establish novelty and inventive step.
3. Can generic manufacturers bypass the patent after expiry?
Yes. Once the patent’s term concludes, or if the patent is invalidated, generics can enter the market subject to regulatory approval.
4. Are method-of-use claims enforceable in South Korea?
Yes. South Korean patent law recognizes method-of-use claims, provided they meet patentability criteria and are properly drafted.
5. What strategies could strengthen the patent’s market position?
Strategies include filing divisional or continuation patents, securing additional patent rights in other jurisdictions, and leveraging regulatory exclusivities.
References
- Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO). Patent Search Database.
- World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Patent Landscape Reports.
- South Korean Patent Act and Enforcement Guidelines.
