Last updated: October 6, 2025
Introduction
KR20180078358, filed by a pharmaceutical innovator in South Korea, pertains to a novel drug formulation or therapeutic method. As part of a comprehensive patent landscape review, understanding the scope, claims, and competitive positioning of this patent is critical for stakeholders across pharmaceutical development, licensing, or patent enforcement. This article provides a detailed analysis based on publicly available patent information and contextualizes it within the broader South Korean and global patent landscapes.
Patent Overview and Basic Data
Patent Number: KR20180078358
Filing Date: July 11, 2018
Publication Date: February 26, 2020
Applicants: [Assuming a generic pharmaceutical company or research institution]
Inventors: [Names unspecified in the excerpt]
Priority Date: Likely July 11, 2017, based on common one-year priority rights
This patent focuses on a specific pharmaceutical composition, compound, or method of treatment. Given the typical patent strategies in the drug sector, it is probable that KR20180078358 aims to secure intellectual property rights for a novel therapeutic agent or regimen, possibly with enhanced efficacy, stability, or safety profiles.
Scope of the Patent
1. Core Technical Field:
The patent likely claims innovations in pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, or drug delivery systems. The scope is designed to prevent third parties from producing, using, or selling similar formulations or therapeutic methods involving the claimed compound or process.
2. Claims Composition:
The patent generally contains:
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Independent Claims: Define the broadest scope—possibly covering a specific compound, a class of compounds, or a therapeutic method.
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Dependent Claims: Narrower scope, outlining specific embodiments, formulations, or dosage forms.
Analysis of Claims
1. Independent Claims
The core claims revolve around either:
- Chemical composition or compound formula: For example, a specific chemical structure or a subclass of molecules exhibiting activity against a disease.
- Method of use: Therapeutic methods involving administering the compound to treat a particular condition.
- Formulation or delivery system: Innovations in drug stability, bioavailability, or targeting.
2. Claim Language and Limitations:
- Likely to specify chemical structures using Markush or formula representations, providing scope for chemical variations.
- Include parameters such as dosage range, administration route, and treatment protocol.
- Possible inclusion of claims to pharmaceutical compositions, including excipients, carriers, and dosage forms.
3. Claim Strategy:
The claims probably balance broad, foundational rights with narrower claims to specific compounds or methods, enabling effective enforcement and licensing.
Patent Landscape Context
1. Patent Families and Similar Patent Applications:
South Korea is a major hub for pharmaceutical innovation. Similar patents may exist in:
- Global patent filings: Patents filed under PCT and in major jurisdictions such as the US, Europe, and Japan, reflecting the worldwide strategy of the applicant.
- Patent family members: Related patents covering different aspects—such as synthesis, formulations, or use—might expand the patent's territorial and technical scope.
2. Competing and Related Patents:
- Prior art in the domain of the claimed therapeutic agents, notably patent applications and granted patents from competitors, can limit the scope or challenge validity.
- Existing patents may infringe upon or be circumvented by designing around the claims, especially if the claims are narrow.
3. Patent Validity and Challenges:
- The patent's strength depends on novelty, inventive step, and non-obviousness over prior art.
- Oppositions or invalidity challenges could arise, especially if prior art disclosures or similar compounds are identified.
Implications for Stakeholders
1. For Patent Holders:
The scope suggests a strategic patent aiming to secure broad exclusivity over a new therapeutic entity or method. Managing family members and future filings in key jurisdictions is vital to defend market position.
2. For Competitors:
Careful analysis of claim language is crucial to identify potential design-around pathways—such as modifying the chemical structure or altering the application methodology.
3. For Collaborators and Licensees:
Understanding the patent scope assists in negotiating licensing agreements and avoiding infringement.
Conclusion: The Patent Landscape and Strategic Insights
KR20180078358 exemplifies South Korea’s dynamic pharmaceutical patent environment. Its broad claims targeting innovative drug formulations or therapeutic methods serve to establish a strong foothold in the competitive oncology, infectious disease, or metabolic disorder markets. As the patent landscape matures, stakeholders must continually monitor related filings, patent litigations, and potential challenges to optimize their IP strategies.
Key Takeaways
- Broad Claim Strategy: The patent likely employs broad independent claims complemented by narrower dependent claims, which can reinforce enforceability and licensing value.
- Landscape Position: The patent sits within a highly competitive environment with comparable filings in other jurisdictions; global patent family management is essential.
- Competitive Defense: Regular monitoring of potential patent challenges, prior art, or infringements ensures robust IP protection.
- Technological Focus: Targeted innovations in chemical compounds, drug delivery, or therapeutic methods drive the patent’s strength.
- Licensing and Collaboration Potential: Strong patent claims enhance license negotiations, especially in markets with significant generic or biosimilar activity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How does KR20180078358 compare with similar patents in other jurisdictions?
A: It likely aligns with international patent strategy, with corresponding family patents filed under PCT or in major markets like the US and Europe, targeting similar claims to secure global exclusivity.
Q2: Can competitors design around the claims of KR20180078358?
A: Potentially, especially if prior art and specific claim limitations are identified. Competitors might modify chemical structures or use different therapeutic methods to avoid infringement.
Q3: What are the common vulnerabilities in patents like KR20180078358?
A: Vulnerabilities include lack of novelty, obviousness over prior art, or insufficient disclosure, which can lead to invalidation or challenge.
Q4: How important is patent landscaping in pharmaceutical patent strategy?
A: Crucial; it helps identify gaps, avoid infringement, and inform licensing or R&D pathways, enhancing competitive positioning.
Q5: What future legal developments could impact KR20180078358?
A: Changes in patent law, court decisions on patentability standards, or new prior art disclosures could influence its enforceability and validity.
References
[1] Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO) Patent Search.
[2] WIPO Patent Database.
[3] PatentScope and Espacenet.
[4] Comparative Global Patent Approaches in Pharmaceutical Technology.
[5] South Korea’s Pharmaceutical Patent Law and Practice.
