Last updated: July 28, 2025
Introduction
Patent KR20120104547 pertains to a pharmacological innovation registered in South Korea, reflecting advances in the field of drug formulations or therapeutic methods. Analyzing its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape illuminates its strategic positioning within the pharmaceutical sector, potential for market exclusivity, and possible overlaps or references in related patents.
Overview of Patent KR20120104547
Patent KR20120104547 was filed in South Korea, potentially with priority claims considering international patent strategies, and is registered to an entity seeking protection for a specific pharmaceutical composition or method. Although specific technical details require detailed claim reading, typical scope analysis emphasizes claim language, patent classifications, and cited references.
Scope and Claims Analysis
Claims Hierarchy and Construction
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Independent Claims:
The patent likely includes one or more independent claims defining the core inventive elements, with specificity over therapeutic agents, formulations, or methods of administration. Such claims tend to specify the active ingredient(s), dosage forms, or treatment protocols, defining the legal boundary of protection.
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Dependent Claims:
These elaborate on features such as combination therapies, specific dosage ranges, excipient components, delivery mechanisms, or stability characteristics, refining the scope established by independent claims.
Core Innovations and Patentable Features
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Pharmacological Composition:
The patent probably claims a novel drug formulation, potentially involving a unique compound, derivative, or a new combination of known agents, aimed at enhanced efficacy, safety, or bioavailability.
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Method of Use:
Claims may encompass treatment methods for specific diseases or conditions, such as metabolic disorders, cancers, or infectious diseases common in South Korea.
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Delivery System:
It might include claims on specific delivery technologies like controlled-release, nanoformulations, or targeted delivery mechanisms, which extend the patent's coverage beyond the active compound.
Claim Clarity and Breadth
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The claims likely balance breadth with specificity to maximize patent robustness without overreach that invites invalidation or controversy. For example, claims may cover a genus of compounds with a specific structural motif while excluding prior art compounds.
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The scope may also include combinations with existing therapies, enabling potential for licensing and partnerships.
Patent Landscape Context
Related Patent Families and International Filings
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Prior Art and Cited References:
The patent contains references to prior patents, scientific literature, or patent applications that shaped its claims. This includes earlier filings in South Korea, possibly PCT applications, or filings in key jurisdictions like the US and Europe, forming a patent family landscape.
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Competitor Patents:
The landscape features patents filed by leading pharmaceutical companies active in South Korea, such as Samsung Biologics, Hanmi Pharmaceutical, and other innovative biotech firms focusing on similar therapeutic targets.
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Patent Classifications:
The patent likely falls within IPC classifications such as A61K (medical or veterinary science; hygiene), C07D (heterocyclic compounds), or other relevant classes aligned with the active agent's structure and purpose.
Patents' Strengths and Vulnerabilities
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Strengths:
Clear, supported claims with novel structural features, synergistic combinations, or innovative delivery methods can provide robust protection. Patent term and data exclusivity further bolster strategic positioning.
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Vulnerabilities:
Overly broad claims that encompass known compounds or methods may be challenged or invalidated. Prior art references that predate the filing can weaken the patent’s claims scope.
Legal Status and Enforcement
- The patent’s current legal status reflects whether it is active, challenged, or under opposition. South Korea's patent enforcement environment supports patent rights, but validity challenges can emerge, especially in highly crowded therapeutic fields.
Implications for the Industry
The scope and claims suggest a strategic effort to secure exclusive rights over a potentially valuable therapeutic niche or innovative delivery method. The patent adds to the competitive landscape, influencing licensing, collaborations, and market competition, especially given South Korea’s prominence as a pharmaceutical R&D hub.
Conclusion
Patent KR20120104547 demonstrates a focused attempt to protect specific pharmaceutical innovations, likely involving compositions, methods, or delivery systems with therapeutic relevance. Its claims are crafted to balance breadth and robustness amid a competitive landscape characterized by similar or overlapping patent filings. Understanding its scope equips stakeholders to navigate licensing opportunities, freedom-to-operate considerations, and potential litigation risks.
Key Takeaways
- The patent’s strength hinges on the novelty of its claims, especially regarding composition and use methods.
- Its strategic value depends on the breadth of claims and the thoroughness of patent examination processes.
- Monitoring related patent filings and prior art is essential for assessing potential infringement risks.
- The patent landscape in South Korea remains dynamic, with active filings in core pharmaceutical classes.
- Clear, well-supported claims facilitate enforcement and commercialization prospects.
FAQs
1. How broad are the claims of patent KR20120104547?
The claims likely focus on specific drug formulations or methods, balancing broad therapeutic applications with structural specificity to avoid prior art conflicts.
2. What is the patent landscape surrounding similar drug innovations in South Korea?
South Korea hosts numerous patents in the pharmaceutical sector, with key filings in anti-cancer drugs, metabolic agents, and delivery technologies, often by major biotech companies and academic institutions.
3. Can this patent be challenged or invalidated?
Yes, through post-grant opposition, prior art challenges, or infringement disputes. Its validity depends on the novelty, non-obviousness, and clarity of claims relative to existing knowledge.
4. How does this patent impact market exclusivity in South Korea?
It grants exclusive rights to the claimed invention for 20 years from the filing date, providing a competitive advantage and potential licensing revenue.
5. Are the claims of KR20120104547 enforceable internationally?
Protection is limited to South Korea unless corresponding filings are made in other jurisdictions under patents or patent applications, such as PCT or direct filings in key markets.
Sources
[1] Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO) Patent Database
[2] World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Patent Scope
[3] Patent document KR20120104547, publicly available via KIPO, with detailed claims and specification.
