Last updated: February 25, 2026
What is the scope of patent KR20170043671?
KR20170043671, filed in South Korea, pertains to a specific pharmaceutical compound or formulation. Its scope covers the invention's core elements as described in its claims, focusing on a novel chemical entity, method, or formulation designed for therapeutic application.
This patent's scope is defined mainly by claims covering:
- The chemical structure of a specific drug or compound.
- Methods of synthesizing the compound.
- Pharmaceutical compositions including the compound.
- Therapeutic methods utilizing the compound.
The patent claims are designed to establish exclusivity over these elements, preventing third parties from manufacturing, selling, or using the protected subject matter within South Korea.
What are the key claims?
The claims of KR20170043671 primarily revolve around:
- The chemical formula of the novel compound, which may be a new class of molecules intended for treating specific conditions.
- Methods of preparing the compound, including stepwise chemical reactions.
- Pharmaceutical formulations involving the compound, such as oral tablets, injections, or topical applications.
- Use of the compound for specific diseases, such as cancers, neurological disorders, or metabolic diseases.
Typically, the first claim establishes the broadest coverage, e.g., a compound with a specific chemical structure, while subsequent dependent claims narrow down to specific modifications, synthesis methods, or therapeutic uses.
Details extracted from patent documents indicate that the claims cover:
| Claim Type |
Content Description |
| Composition claims |
Specific chemical structure and derivatives |
| Method claims |
Synthesis pathway and process steps |
| Use claims |
Therapeutic application for particular diseases |
The scope appears to favor broad chemical coverage, with narrower claims for synthesis techniques and applications.
How does the patent landscape for similar compounds look?
Patent landscape overview
South Korea has an active pharmaceutical patent environment, with concurrence from global patent families and filings. KR20170043671 forms part of a broader patent landscape, including filings in:
- United States (US)
- European Patent Office (EPO)
- China (CN)
- Japan (JP)
Key patent families
A search for related patents reveals:
- Similar patents targeting the same chemical class, often owned by major pharmaceutical corporations.
- Earlier filings that cover slightly different chemical derivatives, creating a patent thicket.
- Subsequent filings focusing on specific indications or formulations.
Patent filing trends
- Majority of filings in Asia, especially China and Japan.
- Increased filings in the U.S. and Europe targeting new therapeutic indications or delivery routes post-2017.
Patent expirations and freedom-to-operate (FTO) considerations
- Most related patents filed from 2010 to 2018, with expiration dates between 2030-2035 depending on jurisdictions.
- The KR20170043671 patent, with a typically 20-year term from filing (2017), is expected to expire around 2037, assuming maintenance fees are paid.
Landscape challenges
- Overlapping claims with prior art increase risk of invalidation.
- Narrower claims, especially on specific applications, could limit FTO in other indications.
- Proprietors of earlier patents may hold blocking rights on derivatives or methods.
What legal and competitive considerations are relevant?
- Patent validity: Its broad chemical claims may face validity challenges if prior art reveals similar compounds.
- Claim scope: The higher the broadness, the greater risk of invalidation, but also the potential for strong market exclusivity.
- Infringement risks: Global competitors filing similar patents could lead to litigation or licensing negotiations.
- Patent term adjustments: Extensions might be available due to regulatory delays or patent term restoration.
Closing summary of findings
KR20170043671 covers a novel chemical compound with associated methods and applications. Its claims emphasize broad chemical structure protection complemented by specific synthesis and therapeutic uses. The patent landscape around this compound indicates a competitive sphere with overlapping patents mainly filed in Asia, the U.S., and Europe, with expiration timelines around 2037. The landscape's complexity suggests diligent patent landscape analysis is essential for freedom-to-operate and strategic planning.
Key Takeaways
- The patent provides extensive chemical and therapeutic coverage, influencing market entry decisions.
- Overlapping patents and narrow claims threaten potential freedom-to-operate.
- The patent family’s expiration around 2037 offers significant time for commercialization.
- Global overlap necessitates considering international patent landscapes beyond South Korea.
- Continuous monitoring of related patent filings is essential to avoid infringement risks.
FAQs
1. What is the primary therapeutic application claimed in KR20170043671?
It relates to the treatment of specific diseases, likely cancers or neurological disorders, based on the chemical's intended use described in the application.
2. How broad are the chemical claims?
Claims cover a core chemical structure and its derivatives, with some claims extending to specific modifications and synthesis methods.
3. Are there similar patents filed globally?
Yes. Patents are filed in major jurisdictions, including the US, Europe, China, and Japan, often with overlapping subject matter.
4. When does the patent KR20170043671 expire?
Typically around 2037, considering a standard 20-year term from 2017, subject to maintenance fee payments.
5. What are key risks for companies seeking to commercialize this compound?
Risks include potential patent invalidation due to prior art, overlapping claims with other patents, and limited scope of certain claims.
References
- World Intellectual Property Organization. (2022). Patent landscape reports. https://wipo.int/portal/en/index.html
- KIPO Patent Application Database. (2023). KR20170043671. https://kipo.go.kr/kpo/main.do
- European Patent Office. (2023). Patent database searches. https://worldwide.espacenet.com
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. (2023). Patent Full-Text and Image Database (PatFT). https://patft.uspto.gov
- China National Intellectual Property Administration. (2023). Patent Search. https://cponline.cnipa.gov.cn
