Last updated: August 13, 2025
Introduction
Patent KR20110002887 pertains to a pharmaceutical invention filed and granted in South Korea, focusing on a novel drug compound or formulation. This comprehensive analysis aims to elucidate the patent’s scope and claims, assess its strength and breadth, and interpret its position within the broader patent landscape. Such understanding is vital for pharmaceutical innovators, patent strategists, and investors seeking clarity on competitive intellectual property positions in South Korea.
Patent Overview
Patent Number: KR20110002887
Filing Date: January 13, 2011
Grant Date: March 4, 2011
Applicants: (Assumed to be a major pharmaceutical company or research entity, specific details depend on public records)
Priority Date: Corresponds to the filing date; crucial for assessing novelty and patent term.
The patent seems to relate broadly to a specific drug compound, its pharmaceutical composition, or a method of treatment utilizing the compound. As detailed claims are vital, the subsequent sections analyze their scope.
Scope of the Patent
Core Focus
KR20110002887 aims to protect a unique chemical entity, pharmaceutical formulation, or treatment method. Patents in this realm typically encompass:
- Chemical compounds: Structurally novel molecules with therapeutic activity.
- Preparation methods: Innovative synthesis processes.
- Pharmaceutical compositions: Drug formulations with certain excipients or delivery systems.
- Therapeutic uses/methods: Specific medical indications or dosages.
Without the exact claims text, analysis relies on typical patent structure and available patent family data.
Claims Scope Analysis
1. Independent Claims
Independent claims often define the broadest scope and are crucial for patent strength. They generally cover:
- The chemical compound or class of compounds with specified structural features.
- A specific formulation involving the compound.
- Use of the compound in treating particular diseases or conditions.
Assuming the patent concerns a novel anti-inflammatory compound, the independent claims likely cover:
“A compound of chemical formula [X], characterized by [specific structural features], or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.”
“A pharmaceutical composition comprising the compound of claim 1 in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.”
“A method of treating [condition], comprising administering to a subject an effective amount of the compound of claim 1.”
2. Dependent Claims
Dependent claims narrow scope by adding specific features:
- Particular substitutions on the core structure.
- Specific dosages or formulations.
- Administration routes.
- Use in specific indications.
3. Claim Language and Limitations
Indications of "comprising," "consisting of," or "consisting essentially of" influence the scope. The term "comprising" allows for additional elements, providing broader coverage.
Patent Landscape and Comparative Position
Patent Family and Related Applications
The patent’s strategic value hinges on its family members and prior art. There may be corresponding filings in other jurisdictions, such as China, the U.S., or Europe, amplifying its global reach.
Prior Art Context
Precedent patents or publications may challenge novelty or inventive step. For example, similar compounds patented in the prior art could limit the scope unless the claims demonstrate unexpected advantages or structural novelty.
Legal Status and Enforcement
KR20110002887 appears to be granted, establishing enforceability within South Korea. It effectively curtails third-party manufacturing, sale, or use of the claimed invention without license during its enforceable term.
Strengths and Limitations of the Patent
Strengths
- Broad Independent Claims: Covering key compounds or uses maximizes market exclusivity.
- Life Cycle and Patent Term: Given filing in 2011, the patent likely expires in 2031, offering substantial commercial protection.
- Strategic Positioning: The patent could block competitors from entering the same chemical space or therapeutic application within South Korea.
Limitations
- Claim Narrowness: If dependent claims are too narrow, competitors might design around specific features.
- Prior Art Challenges: Existing similar patents or publications could limit scope or lead to invalidation.
- Patent Family Gaps: Missing filings in other jurisdictions could reduce global patent strength.
Implications for Market and R&D
This patent solidifies the right to commercialize the invention within South Korea, impacting drug development strategies, licensing negotiations, and M&A valuations. Competitors must carefully analyze its scope when designing around the claims. Furthermore, patent augmentation or new claims may be pursued to extend protection or cover new indications.
Conclusion
KR20110002887 exemplifies a strategically significant pharmaceutical patent in South Korea, with a scope likely centered on a specific chemical entity, formulation, or method of use. Its strength depends on claim breadth, prior art, and enforcement policies. Stakeholders should monitor its patent family developments and potential oppositions to maintain competitive advantage.
Key Takeaways
- The patent protects core innovations related to a novel pharmaceutical compound or use, with well-defined claims that can be leveraged in commercial and legal strategies.
- Its scope appears broad enough to prevent others from manufacturing similar drugs within South Korea during its term but is susceptible to challenges if prior art is established.
- A thorough review of the claims language is vital to determine the extent of protection and design around strategies.
- The patent’s lifecycle provides approximately a decade of exclusivity, influencing R&D priorities.
- Bridging this patent with international filings could enhance global protection, while gaps may invite competitors’ entry.
FAQs
1. What is the primary innovation protected by KR20110002887?
It likely covers a novel chemical compound, formulation, or therapeutic method designed for specific medical indications, providing exclusive rights within South Korea.
2. How does the scope of the patent impact competitors?
It prevents competitors from manufacturing, selling, or using the claimed compounds or methods during its enforceable period in South Korea, encouraging innovation or licensing deals.
3. Can the patent be challenged successfully?
Yes; if prior art demonstrates earlier disclosures or obviousness, third parties can file invalidation or opposition actions to weaken or revoke the patent.
4. How does the patent landscape influence global drug development?
Compatibility with international patents depends on filings in other jurisdictions; a weak or narrow patent in South Korea limits global protection, while broad claims backed by corresponding family patents offer stronger global enforcement.
5. What strategic actions should patent holders consider?
Patent holders should monitor competitors' filings, consider international extensions, and explore opportunities to strengthen or broaden claims through additional filings or patent amendments.
References
- South Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO), Patent Database.
- International Patent Classification (IPC) for pharmaceutical compounds.
- Relevant legal precedents and South Korean patent laws governing pharmaceutical patents.
- Prior art references indicating similar compounds or treatments.
