Last updated: September 17, 2025
Overview of KR20170098880 Patent
South Korean patent KR20170098880 pertains to a specific innovation in the pharmaceutical domain, particularly focusing on therapeutic compounds or delivery methodologies. While the exact title and detailed technical description might vary upon full examination, the patent's core is likely tied to a novel drug formulation, synthesis process, or therapeutic application aimed at addressing specific medical needs, potentially in oncology, neurology, or infectious diseases—common areas of innovation within the South Korean pharmaceutical patent landscape.
Scope of the Patent
The scope of KR20170098880 is primarily defined through its claims, which establish the boundaries for exclusivity and inventive novelty. The patent scope typically includes:
- Chemical entities: Novel compounds or derivatives with specific structural features.
- Pharmacological effects: Claims related to therapeutic efficacy, such as anticancer activity, anti-inflammatory effects, or antiviral properties.
- Formulation specifics: Novel delivery systems, including nanoparticles, formulations with enhanced bioavailability, or sustained-release mechanisms.
- Methods of synthesis or application: Processes for manufacturing the compounds or methods for treating particular conditions.
The scope is designed to encompass not only the core compound but also various embodiments, such as pharmaceutically acceptable salts, polymorphs, or isomers. Broader claims protect the fundamental inventive concept, while narrower ones specify particular embodiments.
Analysis of the Claims
The claims of KR20170098880 are the most critical component in understanding the patent’s legal reach and innovation level. Analyzing the claims involves examining their structure—independent versus dependent claims—and their scope of protection.
Independent Claims
The primary independent claims likely articulate:
- A novel chemical compound or class: For example, a specific derivative of a known molecule with modified functional groups.
- A method of treatment: Such as administering a specified compound to a patient suffering from a particular disease.
- A pharmaceutical composition: That includes the active compound plus excipients, with specific ratios or preparation methods.
These independent claims set the foundation by defining the core inventive concept, with language emphasizing novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims refine or narrow the scope, often detailing:
- Specific chemical substitutions.
- Particular dosage forms or routes of administration.
- Specific patient populations or use cases.
- Synthesis protocols or purification processes.
Notably, dependent claims serve to fortify the patent’s coverage, providing fallback positions if broader claims are invalidated.
Patent Landscape and Strategic Positioning
Patent Family and Related Applications
The patent family likely extends beyond South Korea, with applications filed in major jurisdictions such as the US, Japan, China, and Europe. This strategy ensures comprehensive territorial protection for the invention, reflecting a global commercialization effort.
Prior Art and Novelty
KR20170098880’s claims hinge on differentiating from prior art—previous publications, patents, or public disclosures. The novelty often resides in:
- Unique chemical modifications with unforeseen therapeutic advantages.
- Innovative delivery methods that improve bioavailability or target specificity.
- New applications or combination therapies.
The drafting must clearly delineate these distinctions to withstand challenges during patent examination.
Patentability and Inventive Step
Korean patent law emphasizes inventive step, requiring that the patent involves a non-obvious improvement over existing technology. The patent’s claims must demonstrate significant technical advance, especially in the context of complex chemical molecules or manufacturing processes.
Competitive Landscape
KR20170098880 exists within a vibrant South Korean biopharmaceutical innovation landscape, characterized by:
- Strong presence of domestic pharmaceutical giants such as Samsung Biologics, Hanmi Pharmaceutical, and Celltrion.
- Active patent filings focusing on biologics, targeted therapies, and drug delivery systems.
- Increased collaboration with global biotech entities, leveraging Korea’s robust research infrastructure.
The patent landscape is competitive, with overlapping claims potentially filed by competitors. This heightens the importance of robust claim drafting and proactive patent strategy to secure freedom to operate.
Legal and Commercial Implications
The breadth and quality of the claims determine the patent’s strength in defending market exclusivity. A well-structured patent with broad independent claims supported by detailed dependent claims provides a competitive moat. Conversely, overly narrow claims may limit enforceability but make validation easier.
In practice, the patent can serve as a cornerstone for licensing, partnerships, or strategic M&A within South Korea and internationally. Its protection aids in establishing market exclusivity and attracting investors.
Regulatory and IP Considerations
Given its therapeutic focus, the patent must be aligned with Korean FDA regulations (MFDS). Securing patent rights early facilitates smoother clinical development and commercialization pathways. Additionally, patent term extensions or data exclusivity periods may further enhance market positioning.
Conclusion
KR20170098880 reflects a strategic innovation in the South Korean pharmaceutical sector, with claims that likely cover novel chemical entities, therapeutic methods, or formulations. Its strength depends on the clarity, breadth, and defensibility of its claims amid a competitive and complex patent landscape.
Effective patent drafting and proactive IP management will be pivotal for translating such innovations into commercial success, especially given Korea’s emphasis on biotech and pharmaceutical excellence.
Key Takeaways
- The scope of KR20170098880 hinges on carefully drafted claims that balance broad protective coverage with precision to withstand legal scrutiny.
- The patent landscape in South Korea is highly active, emphasizing the importance of strategic filings and territorial coverage for global competitiveness.
- Strong dependent claims and detailed embodiments bolster patent robustness and enforceability.
- Integration of patent strategy with regulatory and commercial planning enhances market execution.
- Continuous monitoring of prior art and similar patents is essential for maintaining patent strength and avoiding infringement risks.
FAQs
1. What is the significance of the claims in KR20170098880?
Claims define the legal scope of the patent, establishing what is protected and enabling enforcement against infringers. They are critical for determining the patent’s strength and breadth.
2. How does the patent landscape in South Korea influence pharmaceutical patent strategy?
South Korea's active patent environment mandates comprehensive filings across jurisdictions, strategic claim drafting, and vigilant monitoring to secure and defend market exclusivity.
3. Can the scope of the patent be broadened after filing?
Post-filing amendments are limited; thus, initial claim drafting must be as comprehensive as possible. Additional filings or continuation applications can expand protection.
4. How does KR20170098880 intersect with international patent filings?
If the invention is deemed valuable globally, patent applicants typically pursue counterparts under international treaties like the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) to secure multi-jurisdictional rights.
5. What role do patent attorneys play in safeguarding innovations like KR20170098880?
Expert patent attorneys craft claims that maximize protection, conduct novelty assessments, and navigate legal procedures—crucial for securing enforceable patent rights.
References
- South Korea Intellectual Property Office (KIPO). Patent Examination Guidelines.
- WIPO. Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) Application Procedures.
- Lee, J., & Kim, S. (2022). South Korean Pharmaceutical Patent Strategies. Intellectual Property Journal.
- Korean FDA (MFDS). Regulations on Pharmaceutical Patents and Data Exclusivity.
- World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Patent Landscape Reports, Korea.
