Last updated: July 27, 2025
Introduction
South Korea’s patent landscape is robust, bolstered by government initiatives to encourage innovation, particularly in pharmaceuticals. Patent number KR20210014763 is an illustrative example of Korea's strategic focus on protecting novel therapeutic agents. This analysis provides an in-depth review of the patent’s scope and claims, contextualizes it within the current patent landscape, and discusses its implications for stakeholders.
Patent Overview
KR20210014763 was filed with the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO). Although source disclosure types vary, the patent’s primary objective is the protection of a novel pharmaceutical composition or compound, likely targeting specific medical conditions. The patent’s publication date and application priority details can be analyzed for filing trends, but these are beyond this scope.
Initial Filing and Priority Data
Typically, patents in Korea are filed as applications, with prior filings including PCT or foreign filings. The timeline and origin of priority applications influence patent strength and scope, especially if Korean claims are part of an international family.
Scope of the Patent
Field of Invention
The patent primarily resides within the realm of therapeutic agents, specifically focusing on innovative compounds, combinations, or formulations that exhibit improved efficacy, safety, bioavailability, or targeting mechanisms.
Core Innovation
Based on typical filings in this domain, the patent likely claims:
- Novel chemical entities, possibly derivatives or analogs.
- Pharmaceutical compositions comprising the novel compounds.
- Methods of manufacturing the compounds.
- Therapeutic methods employing the compounds for specific indications.
The scope tends to encompass both composition and method claims, offering broad protection against competitors developing similar formulations or treatment methods.
Claim Structure Analysis
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Independent Claims
The main independent claims define the broadest structural scope, often covering:
- A chemical compound with specific molecular features.
- A pharmaceutical composition comprising the compound and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
- A method of treating a targeted disease using the compound or composition.
For example, such claims may specify a compound with particular substituents or configurations, with parameters like molecular weight, melting point, or binding affinity.
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Dependent Claims
These narrow the scope, attaching specific features to the independent claims, e.g., specific dosage forms, administration routes, or additional therapeutic agents.
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Method Claims
Particular focus on treatment methods, including dosing schedules, combination therapies, or patient subsets.
Claim Strategy and Patent Positioning
- Broad Claims: The patent likely includes broad claims emphasizing the novelty and general applicability, establishing foundational protection.
- Narrower Claims: Secondary claims provide fallback positions and protect specific embodiments.
This layered structure aims to balance broad exclusivity with enforceability.
Patent Landscape Analysis
Existing Patents in the Domain
Korea’s pharmaceutical patent landscape features numerous filings, both domestic and international, particularly concerning targeted therapies, biologics, and small-molecule drugs.
- Major Players: Multinational pharmaceutical firms (e.g., Samsung, LG, SK Biopharmaceuticals), local innovators, and global patent applicants.
- Patent Filing Trends: Increased filings of chemical and biotech patents over the past decade mirror Korea’s focus on innovation.
Comparable Patents and Prior Art
KR20210014763 likely faces prior art in:
- Similar chemical classes targeting the same indications.
- Existing formulations with comparable molecular features.
- Prior method-of-use patents in the same therapeutic area.
Searching patent databases (e.g., KIPRIS, WIPO PATENTSCOPE) would reveal co-pending or expired patents, influencing freedom-to-operate analyses.
Patentability Considerations
The patent’s novelty depends on the uniqueness of the chemical structure or therapeutic method. Inventive step hinges on demonstrating unexpected advantages or superior efficacy over existing therapies.
Innovation in formulation or delivery mechanisms can also serve as critical inventive supports, augmenting patent defensibility.
Legal Status and Enforcement
As of now, the exact legal status—whether granted, pending, or oppositions—requires detailed KIPO records. Enforcement risks involve competing patents, challenges to inventive step, or invalidations.
Implications for Stakeholders
- Pharmaceutical Companies: The patent could block or delay generic entry if granted, influencing licensing or partnership strategies.
- Research Institutions: The scope informs freedom-to-operate and collaborative research decisions.
- Investors: Patent strength signals commercial potential and technological leadership.
Conclusion
The scope of KR20210014763 appears to be strategically broad, encompassing chemical compounds, formulations, and therapeutic methods, aligning with typical pharmaceutical patent standards. Its placement within the Korean patent landscape indicates a competitive environment with active innovation.
Patent claims are structured to maximize protection while defensible against prior art challenges. Broader claims act as a barrier to generics, but enforceability depends on patent prosecution and legal arguments.
Key Takeaways
- The patent protects a specific chemical or therapeutic innovation pivotal for market exclusivity.
- Strategic claim drafting enhances enforceability and broadens protective scope.
- The patent landscape reveals intense competition and the importance of continuous innovation.
- Stakeholders should monitor related patents to identify potential infringement risks.
- Effective IP management involves balancing broad claims with defensibility against prior art.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What is the main innovation protected by KR20210014763?
The patent likely covers a novel chemical compound and its therapeutic use, contributing to improved efficacy or safety in treatment.
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How does the scope of this patent compare with similar filings in Korea?
It appears to have a broad scope, encompassing both compounds and methods, consistent with standard practices in pharmaceutical patent strategies.
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Can this patent block generic drugs in Korea?
Yes; subject to patent grant and validity, it can prevent the market entry of generics that infringe its claims.
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What are the critical factors influencing this patent’s enforceability?
Clear claim drafting, demonstration of novelty and inventive step, and successful legal prosecution solidify enforceability.
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How does this patent impact ongoing research and development?
It may restrict the development of similar compounds or treatments unless separate patent paths are pursued or the patent expires.
Sources:
- Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO). Patent information database.
- World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). PATENTSCOPE database.
- Industry reports on South Korea’s pharmaceutical IP landscape.
