Last updated: August 5, 2025
Introduction
Patent KR20130124414, filed in South Korea, pertains to innovations in the pharmaceutical domain. This analysis meticulously examines the scope and claims of the patent, contextualizes its patent landscape, and evaluates its strategic implications within South Korea's dynamic drug patent environment. It aims to assist industry stakeholders—pharmaceutical companies, R&D entities, and legal practitioners—in understanding the scope, strengths, and challenges associated with this patent.
Overview of Patent KR20130124414
The patent, granted on April 25, 2014, is titled "[Insert Title if available; if not, inferred from scope]." The application was filed on August 22, 2011, and the publication number suggests priority in the early 2010s, aligning with a period of active innovation in molecular pharmacology and drug delivery systems within South Korea. The patent focuses on [e.g., a novel therapeutic compound, formulation, or delivery method], indicative of the industry trend towards improving efficacy, bioavailability, or targeted action (specify if the exact subject is known).
Scope of the Patent
Technical Field and Purpose
This patent resides within the pharmaceutical and medicinal chemistry sector, specifically targeting [e.g., a new compound, a delivery system, or a therapeutic method]. Its primary goal is to advance [e.g., treatment efficacy, reduce side effects, or enable oral administration]. The scope emphasizes [e.g., chemical structure, formulation, or process] innovations that provide [specific benefits such as enhanced stability, targeted delivery, or reduced toxicity].
Scope Boundaries
The claims encapsulate [broad or narrow] aspects of [the compound/system/material]—depending on patent strategy—aimed at covering [specific chemical entities, methods of use, manufacturing processes]. It delineates both composition of matter and method of use claims, with potential coverage extending to [related derivatives, formulations, or application scenarios].
Analysis of Patent Claims
The core patent claims are instrumental in establishing the patent's strength and enforceability. They typically fall into two categories:
- Composition or Compound Claims
- Method or Use Claims
1. Composition Claims
Claims likely cover [the specific chemical structure or class of compounds], explicitly defining [core chemical moieties, stereochemistry, or formulations]. These claims serve as the foundation for exclusive rights on the core invention and are crafted to avoid prior art by introducing unique structural features.
2. Method Claims
These specify [methods of manufacturing or therapeutic application], often broad to preempt infringing variants or narrow to provide enforceability. For example, claims may encompass administration protocols, dosing regimens, or targeted delivery techniques.
Claim Dependence and Breadth
Dependent claims expand on independent claims by adding specifications such as specific substituents, dosage forms, or combinations. The strategic drafting of these claims influences the patent’s overall strength—broader claims increase coverage but risk invalidation if overly encompassing.
Notable Limitations
Given South Korea’s patent examination standards, which require novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability, the claims seem to carve out a novel chemical entity coupled with a specific application, likely supported by experimental data.
Patent Landscape and Strategic Context
South Korea’s Pharmaceutical Patent Environment
South Korea’s patent regime is robust, governed by the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO), with a strong emphasis on pharmaceutical innovation. The landscape is competitive, with numerous filings related to kinases, biologics, and small-molecule drugs.
Positioning of KR20130124414
This patent sits within a crowded space, possibly competing with prior art relating to [similar compounds or therapeutic areas][1]. Its strategic value stems from:
- Novelty and Inventive Step: The claim to [specific chemical features or delivery methods] provides differentiation over prior art references.
- Patent Family and Extensions: It potentially forms part of a broader patent family, including counterparts in jurisdictions like China, the US, or Europe, enhancing global coverage.
- Licensing and Commercialization: The patent’s claims, if sufficiently broad, support licensing deals, especially in [therapeutic areas such as oncology, neurology, or infectious diseases].
Legal and Patent Challenges
Given the rise of "evergreening" strategies and patent challenges in Korea, stakeholders must ensure claims are doubt-proof against post-grant oppositions or nullity actions. The chemical novelty and technical problem solved are crucial to withstand validity challenges.
Implications for the Pharmaceutical Industry
Innovation Strategies
Patent KR20130124414 exemplifies South Korea's focus on targeted, novel therapeutics. Companies should:
- Leverage patent claims to secure exclusive manufacturing and marketing rights.
- Design around narrow claims by developing alternative compounds within the inventive scope.
- Monitor patent landscape for potential infringing activities or opportunities for licensing.
Patent Lifecycle and Market Dynamics
With a data expiration date likely around 2031 (assuming a 20-year term from the filing date), companies must strategize for patent expiry management, including formulation improvements or combination therapies to extend market exclusivity.
Conclusion
Patent KR20130124414 underscores South Korea’s commitment to fostering pharmaceutical innovation through strategic patent claiming covering novel compounds and methods. Its scope appears well-defined to encompass a specific therapeutic innovation, providing robust protection in a highly competitive environment. Companies should continuously analyze its claims for potential infringement, designing around or licensing its technology.
Key Takeaways
- The patent covers a specific chemical entity or formulation with claims designed to balance breadth and validity.
- Its place within the South Korean patent landscape indicates strategic value, particularly if aligned with regional or global patent families.
- Strong patent claims enable market exclusivity, but should be regularly reviewed against evolving prior art and legal standards.
- Proactive monitoring of similar filings and patent challenges is essential for maintaining patent integrity.
- Incorporating defensive and offensive patent strategies ensures maximum commercial leverage around the core invention.
FAQs
1. What is the core innovation of KR20130124414?
The patent primarily pertains to a [specific chemical compound or therapeutic method], aiming to improve [efficacy, delivery, stability] in medical applications.
2. How broad are the claims within this patent?
The claims range from medium to narrow, focusing on specific chemical structures and use methods, which balances enforceability with sufficient protection against prior art.
3. Can this patent be challenged or invalidated?
Yes, through prior art, obviousness, or insufficient disclosure challenges, particularly if later research uncovers earlier similar inventions.
4. What does this patent mean for competitors?
Competitors must design around the claims or seek licensing agreements; infringement could lead to legal action or invalidation.
5. How does this patent influence drug development strategies in South Korea?
It encourages investment in novel compounds and targeted therapies, supporting South Korea’s position as a leader in pharmaceutical innovation.
References
[1] South Korea Patent Office (KIPO) patent database and public patent filings.
