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Big Pharma Competes in mRNA Cancer Vaccine Development as South Korea Advances Domestic Production The global competition in messenger RNA (mRNA) platform development has entered a critical phase. Major pharmaceutical companies are investing heavily in new indications for vaccines targeting diseases like influenza and cancer, achieving visible results. In South Korea, the government and biotech firms are collaborating to advance domestic production efforts.According to industry sources, mRNA cancer vaccines, which have shown potential for personalized treatment, are emerging as a new battleground amid competition surrounding next-generation platforms like antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), bispecific antibodies, and cell therapies. Recently, a personalized mRNA cancer vaccine jointly developed by U.S. pharmaceutical companies Moderna and Merck (MSD) has gained attention as a game changer after positive results in Phase 3 trials for melanoma.The competition among major pharmaceutical companies utilizing mRNA technology is expected to intensify. Last year, German biotech company BioNTech signed a $1.25 billion deal to acquire its competitor CureVac in an all-stock transaction to expand its mRNA cancer pipeline. This acquisition aims to strengthen research, manufacturing, and commercialization of mRNA-based cancer immunotherapies.Sanofi also invested in mRNA technology by acquiring the U.S. venture Translate Bio for $3.2 billion in 2021, focusing on developing new mRNA vaccines for influenza and other diseases. Pfizer and BioNTech are advancing their mRNA influenza vaccine into Phase 3 trials, closely following Moderna, which received FDA approval in August for its mRNA-based influenza vaccine, EmplusiVa, marking a first in this category. GSK recently announced Phase 2 results for its mRNA seasonal influenza vaccine candidate and plans to initiate Phase 3 trials.An industry insider noted, The fact that mRNA technology has moved beyond COVID-19 to the seasonal influenza market signifies its commercialization stage. If GSK proves competitive in Phase 3 trials, the competition between traditional technologies and mRNA platforms in the influenza vaccine market will intensify further.The South Korean governments push for mRNA domestic production is also gaining momentum. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency has increased the budget for next years Pandemic Preparedness mRNA Vaccine Development Support Project by 53.4% to 40.5 billion won, up from 26.4 billion won this year. The government previously announced plans to invest a total of 505.2 billion won by 2028 to localize currently imported mRNA vaccines and secure rapid development platforms. The goal is to support development from preclinical to Phase 3 trials, aiming for product approval by 2028.GC Pharma is a leading candidate for domestic production. The company submitted an Investigational New Drug (IND) application for its COVID-19 mRNA vaccine candidate last month and plans to enter Phase 2 trials this fall. GC Pharma stated, We aim to establish a proprietary mRNA-lipid nanoparticle (LNP) platform that can be used broadly, not limited to specific vaccine development, and create a structure that allows us to expand into contract development and manufacturing (CDMO) services beyond mere technological independence.In addition to vaccine developers, movements toward domestic production are also evident in the CDMO sector. ST Pharm has announced its transition from an oligonucleotide CDMO business to an integrated RNA CDMO model, expanding into mRNA and LNP formulation.Jeong I-soo, a researcher at IBK Investment & Securities, commented, As global latecomers accelerate their mRNA cancer vaccine development, the demand for CDMO services for early clinical supplies is expected to rise. Interest in domestic companies with mRNA delivery and platform technologies will also increase.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1 -
mRNA Platform Evolution: Expanding Beyond Vaccines to Treatments The messenger RNA (mRNA) platform has entered its second major test since proving its effectiveness with COVID-19 vaccines. Building on the success of COVID-19 vaccines, the platform is now expanding into new areas, including seasonal flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections, and treatments for cancer and rare diseases. The bio industry is at a turning point, seeking new growth drivers in the post-COVID era through the evolution of the mRNA platform.According to a report by global market research firm Vision Research Report, the global mRNA vaccine and treatment market is expected to grow from $10.66 billion in 2024 to $45.04 billion by 2034, reflecting an annual growth rate of 15.5%. Within this, the mRNA cancer vaccine market is projected to nearly double, increasing from $8.1 billion to $15.7 billion during the same period.This growth indicates that mRNA technology is creating new markets by extending beyond simple preventive vaccines into therapeutic areas. An industry insider noted, While there were predictions that the mRNA vaccine market might experience a temporary slowdown after the COVID-19 pandemic, it appears that growth will be sustained through the expansion of new indications such as flu, RSV, and cancer vaccines.The expansion of mRNA into new areas is driven by the structural limitations of traditional egg-based cultivation methods. Producing a single vaccine using egg culture typically takes 5 to 6 months, during which time the virus may mutate, reducing the vaccines effectiveness. In contrast, mRNA can be designed within weeks once the genetic information of the pathogen is obtained, providing a speed advantage in responding to mutations.Leveraging these advantages, the mRNA platform is moving beyond preventive vaccines into therapeutic applications. Recent developments in personalized cancer vaccines and treatments for rare diseases are rapidly broadening its medical applications.There is growing optimism in the market that the era of designing personalized cancer vaccines based on patients genetic information is becoming a reality. U.S. companies Moderna and Merck (MSD) have reported significant treatment effects in a Phase 3 clinical trial for melanoma patients using their cancer vaccine Intismeran Autogen in combination with the immunotherapy Keytruda, compared to Keytruda alone. This marks the first time mRNA-based treatments have demonstrated efficacy in the oncology field, extending beyond infectious diseases like COVID-19.Global pharmaceutical and biotech companies are expanding the application of cancer vaccines to more prevalent cancers, such as lung, bladder, and pancreatic cancers, suggesting a shift in the paradigm of cancer drug development.Jung Yoon-taek, head of the Pharmaceutical Industry Strategy Research Institute, stated, The combination of mRNA and lipid nanoparticles (LNP) is expected to extend the platforms applicability to various cancer types as well as infectious diseases. It is also encouraging that the South Korean government has allocated 40.5 billion won for mRNA-related budgets. Such national-level investments to proactively respond to future infectious diseases are likely to increase.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Chahum Partners with LG CNS and CHA Healthcare to Launch AI Health Screening Center Chahum is collaborating with LG CNS and CHA Healthcare to establish an AI-based Intelligent Screening Center. This initiative will implement AI agents throughout the entire screening process, from analyzing medical history to recommending personalized tests, generating results, and providing post-examination care. On September 9, LG CNS announced the commencement of a project to introduce the Intelligent Screening Center during a kickoff meeting held at Chahum in Cheongdam, Gangnam, Seoul. Key figures in attendance included Chahum Director Kim Jae-hwa, CHA Healthcare Executive Director Lee Jun-young, and LG CNS Executive Director Bae Min. The Chahum Premium Health Screening Center has been providing one-on-one tailored screenings based on clients health histories, physician recommendations, and past consultations. However, nurses previously had to manually check various systems, such as the customer relationship management (CRM) and electronic medical records (EMR), to gather a single clients information. Much of the record-keeping and post-care management was also done manually. The AI agent being developed by LG CNS will integrate and analyze screening histories, results, consultation records, and post-care schedules from the CRM and EMR systems. It will suggest necessary tests and their rationale based on past results and medical advice, and it will also generate materials to explain the need for these tests to clients. Additionally, it will assist in drafting preliminary reports by compiling test results and assessments. Consulting nurses will be able to conduct in-depth consultations tailored to clients health conditions based on AI-generated suggestions. Before screenings, the system will automatically create checklists of precautions for each participant, and after screenings, it will manage follow-up schedules for re-examinations at three, six, and nine-month intervals. The program will also enhance connections to outpatient care for those with findings and provide guidance on re-examination programs. To accommodate the approximately 30% of clients who are foreign nationals, an AI-based real-time translation service will be introduced. This aims to reduce language barriers during the communication of screening results, thereby improving convenience and satisfaction for foreign clients. Kim Jae-hwa, Director of Chahum, stated, This collaboration will enhance the quality of customer management by integrating advanced AI technology into the top-tier personalized medical services that Chahum has pursued. We aim to successfully establish an AI-based intelligent screening system that sets a new standard for premium health screenings. Bae Min, Executive Director of LG CNS, remarked, We will apply our accumulated AX (AI transformation) capabilities to innovate screening services and improve operational efficiency in the medical field. LG CNS plans to validate the screening-specialized AI agent model at Chahum before expanding its application to major screening centers within CHA Hospital.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Samsung Electronics Expands Health Ecosystem with Galaxy Watch Samsung Electronics has unveiled advanced healthcare technology that goes beyond blood pressure and electrocardiogram (ECG) measurements to provide a comprehensive heart health score using the Galaxy Watch and Samsung Health app. Choi Jong-min, Senior Vice President of Samsung Electronics MX Business Digital Health Team, expressed a strong commitment to realizing non-invasive continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology during a briefing at the companys press room on September 9. He aims to develop technology that allows real-time blood sugar monitoring on the wrist without the need for blood draws, enhancing Samsung Health into a truly comprehensive healthcare platform. On this day, Samsung presented its vision for smart healthcare, which monitors subtle physical changes 24/7 to detect and prevent serious illnesses early. In anticipation of World Heart Day on September 29, the company emphasized a smart health management ecosystem that enables continuous monitoring to recognize warning signs and take immediate action. The Heart Health Score feature, available on the Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 and Watch 9, analyzes sleep, activity levels, vascular stress, and body composition to provide intuitive scores and actionable guidance. For instance, if vascular stress is high, it recommends a low-sodium diet and meals rich in whole grains. The Vital Signs feature tracks five key indicators—heart rate, heart rate variability, and respiratory rate—during sleep, sending immediate alerts when significant deviations from normal values are detected. Choi stated, The key is not just measuring indicators but proactively detecting subtle anomalies through artificial intelligence (AI) and sensor technology. We have refined the algorithms to help users intuitively understand their physical condition and improve their lifestyle habits. The recently upgraded Samsung Health version 7.0 supports Connected Care, allowing families to share health information. With user consent, key biometric data can be shared among family members, enabling children to monitor their parents irregular health metrics and respond proactively to any concerning changes. Choi noted, Connected Care, which allows children to check and respond to their parents health status in real-time from a distance, is one of the true values that smart healthcare should pursue. The accumulated data can also serve as valuable reference material during hospital visits, significantly lowering communication barriers with healthcare professionals. Since introducing optical heart rate (PPG) sensors in 2014, Samsung has continuously advanced its monitoring technology. In 2020, it obtained medical device approval for its blood pressure and ECG measurement apps, and in 2021, the Galaxy Watch 4 integrated PPG, ECG, and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) sensors into a single BioActive Sensor, setting a new standard for wrist-based healthcare. In 2023, the company received approvals from the U.S. FDA and South Koreas Ministry of Food and Drug Safety for its irregular heart rhythm notification (IHRN) feature, contributing to the early prevention of serious conditions like atrial fibrillation. There have been successful cases of early detection and treatment of atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction through irregular rhythm notifications and ECG assessments in both domestic and international settings. Regarding global regulatory approvals and future specifications, Choi remarked, Gaining approvals from various countries food and drug administrations and the FDA is a challenging task that requires rigorous clinical data and safety validation. However, since it directly relates to users lives, we will prioritize trustworthiness in our verification process. We will continue to introduce preventive-focused smart healthcare services in the future.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Hecto Healthcare Showcases K-Health Products at Vitafoods Asia 2026 Global healthcare company Hecto Healthcare successfully participated in Asias largest health supplement exhibition, Vitafoods Asia 2026, held in Bangkok, Thailand, and has entered into follow-up discussions for distribution partnerships with 20 global buyers. Vitafoods Asia 2026 took place from September 2 to 4 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) in Bangkok. According to the event organizer Informa Markets, over 650 companies participated this year, with healthcare and nutrition industry representatives from 83 countries engaging in active business exchanges. At the exhibition, Hecto Healthcare showcased its premium probiotics brand Dushimone and its baby and kids-focused brand Kim Seok-jin LAB. Featured products included Dushimone 4500, Dushimone Baby & Kids Step, a new pet product Dushimone Pet, and Kim Seok-jin LABs Our Child DHA Smart Drops. During the event, Hecto Healthcare discussed product supply and distribution possibilities with buyers from various countries. Among them, the company is currently reviewing specific partnership options, including local distribution, with 20 firms. Hecto Healthcare plans to analyze market demand and distribution environments by country based on the buyer network established at the exhibition, as well as assess market suitability and specific business conditions for each product. This will guide their efforts to expand overseas distribution networks and discover new partnerships. Kim Seok-jin, CEO of Hecto Healthcare, stated, Vitafoods Asia 2026 was an opportunity to introduce the competitiveness of Dushimone and Kim Seok-jin LAB products to the global healthcare industry and to directly confirm interest and demand in various markets. He added, We will work to develop the buyer connections established at the event into practical cooperative relationships to expand our foundation for entering the global market. Meanwhile, Hecto Healthcare recently launched Dushimone Pet Probiotics for dogs and cats, expanding its brand presence in the pet health management market. Kim Seok-jin emphasized, Based on our long-standing research and expertise in probiotics, we have introduced Dushimone Pet to support the healthy daily lives of pets.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 1
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Barun Law Firm Concludes First AI Innovation Leaders Forum As the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in hospitals expands, experts suggest shifting the focus from what to implement to how to manage and integrate these technologies.Barun Law Firm, in collaboration with Caleb & Company, announced on September 9 that they co-hosted the 1st AI Innovation Leaders Forum – Transforming and Advancing Hospital AI: From Data and Governance to Clinical Solutions on September 8 at the Melon Hall on the 5th floor of the L Tower in Seocho-gu, Seoul.The event, attended by over 100 practitioners from general hospitals and related medical institutions, featured partners including the Korea Health and Medical Information Service and AI Nation & Jeongwon Ensys.In the first session focused on Transforming AI Governance, Professor Yang Kwang-mo of Sungkyunkwan University and head of the AI Research Center at Samsung Medical Center diagnosed structural disconnections in the field through his presentation titled The Core of Hospital AI Transformation – A Hospital Where Data Flows. He noted, Even if hospital AI passes performance verification, there remains a significant gap before it translates into actual work. He identified key issues as disconnections between institutions (limitations in standardizing and sharing images), between tasks (scattered channels and manual classification), and between evaluations (discrepancies in defined metrics and performance data).Professor Yang pointed out that changes in regulations, such as Germanys Hospital Reform Act, the UKs NHS App-centered 10-year plan, and domestic support projects for the structural transformation of advanced general hospitals, all demand a common need for defining and connecting necessary information.As a solution, he proposed a data-flowing operational system that connects standards, data, AI judgment, task execution, and performance evaluation. He shared examples from the Samsung Medical Center consortium, including patient-centered medical image sharing (938 cases exchanged among six institutions), automated classification of medical referrals using an on-premises LLM (analyzed 6,624 electronic referrals with a 75.4% assignment accuracy rate, improved to 84.7% after expert re-evaluation), and the integrated referral and return system S-CARENet.He emphasized the need to pre-design who, where, and how to process data after AI judgment, connecting data, AI, tasks, and evaluations under the premise of human final verification (Human-in-the-loop), and highlighted the division of roles among management, planning, and IT departments.Attorney Ahn Juhyun of Barun presented on Domestic AI Regulations and Hospital Responses – Checkpoints for AI Implementation through Regulations and Law, diagnosing the regulatory landscape faced by hospitals. She stated, Hospital AI is subject to multiple regulations, including the Basic AI Act, regulations on digital medical products, and the Personal Information Protection Act, emphasizing that the focus of regulation is not the model itself but the combination of data processing and clinical usage. She also noted that even similar clinical support functions could face different regulatory pathways depending on their context of use, such as medical device approvals for advertising versus actual use.As a response, she proposed inspection criteria based on usage phases. When utilizing generative AI for medical record writing or patient guidance, hospitals must adhere to privacy checkpoints, including removing patient identification information, using secure internal networks, and notifying patients of AI usage. Procedures for processing, exporting, combining, and managing pseudonymized information and health data must also be pre-designed. Ahn stressed that hospital AI governance should operate continuously before implementation, during operation, and during changes, highlighting the need for comprehensive legal and institutional responses that encompass AI regulations, medical devices, personal information, and medical laws.In the second session on AI Strategies and Solutions, Bae Gi-won, head of the Innovation Center at Caleb & Company, diagnosed patterns of failure in AI implementation in his presentation titled Hospital AX Strategy and Governance – A to Z. He noted, While implementation is increasing, it remains unclear who approves and who is responsible, identifying common causes of the seven major failures as governance gaps, including verification-field discrepancies, alert fatigue, performance degradation (drift) due to lack of post-management, bias, vendor dependency, and gaps in responsibility and governance. He warned that if all AIs are reviewed with the same intensity, it could lead to an increase in shadow AI as the field seeks to circumvent regulations.As a solution, he suggested that the first step is to inventory the scattered AIs within the institution, proposing differentiated reviews based on risk and a dedicated organization with a multi-layered governance system. He stated, Well-designed governance does not slow down the pace of implementation; rather, it accelerates it, urging management to view regulatory compliance as a matter of implementation speed rather than cost.Lee Se-ra, team leader at AI Nation, shared insights on AI Born in Clinical Settings – Co-developing a Pressure Ulcer Solution, diagnosing challenges faced in the field. She explained, Pressure ulcer management is a labor-intensive task that involves repeated measurement, imaging, stage assessment, and documentation for each lesion, sharing difficulties in refining data collected in the field and the challenge of distinguishing healed pressure ulcers from similar lesions like dermatitis.She introduced the journey of developing an AI detection solution for pressure ulcer stages in collaboration with Yonsei Severance Hospital over 21 months, explaining the three-step processing of labeling and classifying over 30,000 lesion data, defining evaluation criteria, and confirming results through imaging and inference (lesion area segmentation and stage classification). Lee emphasized that this is a record created in collaboration with the field, not a product sold by a vendor.Kwon Chan-young, head of the AI Strategy Office at Jeongwon Ensys, addressed the essence of real-time diagnostic support AI in his presentation on Real-time Diagnostic Support AI. He noted, Video is ultimately a series of still images, and if it is 30 frames per second, the detection AI makes independent judgments 30 times per second. He diagnosed limitations in relying on single-frame detection, which can lead to false positives when markers flicker or frames are blurred.As a solution, he proposed tracking whether the same lesion is continuously detected across frames in the temporal axis to ensure reliability, and skipping blurred frames to achieve smooth detection without flickering, introducing examples of real-time polyp detection (CADe) and diagnostic support (CADx) in endoscopy.During the panel discussion, Lee Jun-hee, head of Baruns Corporate Strategy Research Institute, moderated a discussion with panelists including Kim Kyung-yoon, senior AWS Healthcare executive, Min Gyu-hong, head of the Smart Hospital Information Strategy Team at Seoul St. Marys Hospital, Lee Eui-kyu, attorney at Barun, and Han Eun-jin, specialized nurse at Severance Hospitals Clinical Support Nursing Team, focusing on the evolving role of hospitals and challenges in data and governance.Min Gyu-hong emphasized, Hospitals must transform from places that treat illnesses to comprehensive health management centers that encompass prevention and proactive management, stating that personal medical information should be provided to individuals while also being utilized for AI research through lawful procedures, creating a virtuous cycle back into clinical practice. He stressed the urgent need for AI-Ready medical data that has undergone standardization, refinement, and quality control, identifying the common challenge of transitioning dispersed data into an accessible and manageable structure while reinforcing the structure and meaning of existing data.Lee Eui-kyu highlighted that the core of AI governance is identifying the AIs used by hospitals and establishing approval, verification, and monitoring procedures based on risk levels, ensuring the final judgment authority of medical staff, and maintaining a compliance system that records verification, changes, and incident responses. He added, Such governance is not a regulation but a foundation for the rapid introduction of safe AI.Yum Min-seob, director of the Korea Health and Medical Information Service, emphasized that the competitiveness of medical AI is not solely created by algorithms but requires high-quality data, standards, and a safe linkage and utilization system to lead to real innovation in medical practice. He introduced the governments basic medical AI strategy, the public medical AI highway, the health information highway (medical MyData), and the national integrated bio big data project, stating, The Korea Health and Medical Information Service will work to create medical innovations that citizens can feel through medical data and AI.Lee Dong-hoon, representative attorney at Barun, stated, For the successful implementation of medical AI, comprehensive responses to various regulations related to AI, digital medical products, medical devices, personal information protection, and medical data utilization are essential. He added, Barun has accumulated expertise and experience in digital healthcare, personal information and data, AI regulations, and consulting for medical institutions, and will faithfully fulfill its role as a strategic partner in proactively addressing and resolving legal issues faced by hospitals and medical institutions at each stage of AI transformation. September 9, 2026 1
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GS Caltex to Supply 2,000 Tons of Sustainable Aviation Fuel to DHL GS Caltex is expanding its supply of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by partnering with global express delivery company DHL Express.On September 8, GS Caltex Vice President Kim Chang-soo and DHL Express CEO John Pearson, along with key representatives from both companies, signed a partnership agreement at GS Tower in Gangnam, Seoul, aimed at reducing carbon emissions through the use of SAF.Under this agreement, GS Caltex will supply 2,000 tons of SAF, based on Neat SAF (100% SAF), to DHL Express for its domestic refueling operations over the next year.The SAF supplied by GS Caltex is produced through a co-processing method and has received ISCC EU certification, complying with the European Unions renewable energy guidelines.GS Caltex plans to continue expanding its SAF production and supply to airlines in response to market demand. To ensure a stable supply of SAF, the company will establish a dedicated production line for co-processing.For commercial-scale SAF production, GS Caltex will also build dedicated pipelines connecting bio-feedstock tanks and refining processes, with plans to complete the co-processing production line by the end of this year.A GS Caltex official stated, With this SAF supply to DHL Express, we have taken a step forward in expanding our SAF customer base. We will continue to grow our biofuel business, including SAF, in line with market demand.Last year, GS Caltex completed the construction of PT. ARC, a palm oil refining company, in collaboration with POSCO International to establish a palm value chain necessary for SAF production.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 0
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South Korea and France Sign 16 Cooperation Agreements, Covering AI, Semiconductors, Space, and Nuclear Energy South Korean President Lee Jae-myungs state visit to France has resulted in the signing of 16 cooperation documents between the governments, institutions, and businesses of both countries. Of these, nine agreements were exchanged following a summit, while the remaining seven were signed separately during the state visit. According to the Blue House on September 8, the exchanged documents focus on cooperation in advanced technology and industry. The two countries agreed to promote joint research and development projects in AI, semiconductors, and quantum technology through memorandums of understanding (MOUs), as well as support investment attraction in AI and quantum fields and identify business opportunities between semiconductor companies and research institutions. The MOU on industrial cooperation and competitiveness includes the establishment of ministerial-level industrial strategy dialogues and sector-specific working groups to institutionalize cooperation in industrial policy, trade and investment, supply chains, critical minerals, and industrial technology. On the corporate level, Samsung Electronics and French AI firm Mistral AI have signed a strategic investment agreement. Samsung will participate as a strategic investor in Mistral AI and jointly develop a proprietary in-house AI model that can protect key semiconductor know-how. Mistral AI secured a total of €3 billion in a Series D funding round led by Samsung, with a post-investment valuation exceeding €21 billion. However, the specific amount invested by Samsung and its equity stake have not been disclosed. In the security sector, a protocol to amend the military secret information protection agreement was signed. This revision reflects Frances updated classification system and strengthens restrictions on access to military secrets, enhancing the institutional foundation for military information exchange and defense cooperation between the two countries. The amended aviation agreement, which has been under negotiation for about a decade, includes principles for fair competition, security and safety enhancement, and environmental sustainability. The two nations will also establish a practical system to exchange information on space industry policies and support mutual market entry for small and medium-sized enterprises and startups. Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power and Frances Orano will promote long-term cooperation in enrichment services based on new enrichment facilities, aiming to diversify supply sources and stabilize the long-term nuclear fuel supply chain. Cultural and creative industry exchanges and joint investments will be promoted, along with strengthened cooperation in cultural and artistic institutions and cultural heritage. The scope of intellectual property cooperation will expand from existing examination collaboration to include sharing AI examination standards and best practices, as well as areas of intellectual property finance and commercialization. The seven agreements signed separately during the state visit focused on public safety, trade and investment, bio, and academic exchanges. Police forces from both countries will enhance cooperation in responding to transnational crime, tracking fugitives, and scientific investigation and training. KOTRA and Business France will jointly promote investment and trade seminars, economic delegations, and support for startups. The Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology has signed three MOUs with French institutions in the fields of biotechnology, plant science, and quantum and AI-based drug development. The K-STAR alliance of South Korean science and technology specialized universities and the Graduate School of Science will expand student and young researcher exchanges with Paris-Saclay University, as well as joint research in basic science and quantum and AI. The mutual logistics support agreement currently under negotiation and a future MOU for nuclear research and development between the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute and Framatome are not included in these 16 agreements. The two countries plan to expedite the signing of the mutual logistics support agreement and pursue joint research in safety technology for next-generation small modular reactors (SMRs), nuclear basic science, and waste management. President Lee held a summit with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace on the same day, discussing ways to expand cooperation in advanced technology, industry and trade, defense and aerospace, and culture, followed by an agreement exchange ceremony and a joint press conference.* This article has been translated by AI. September 9, 2026 0
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Education Ministry Releases First-Year Evaluation of Anchor Program The Education Ministry has finalized the selection of six models for the Super-Regional Growth Engine Talent Development Project, a key initiative of the regional growth talent development system (Anchor & RISE). The ministry also announced the results of the first-year evaluation conducted across 17 cities and provinces. Based on these results, a performance budget of 400 billion won will be distributed unequally among local governments. However, the announcement has raised concerns regarding procedural legitimacy and independence, as the Central Anchor Committee, the main deliberative body for the project, has not yet officially launched. Some in higher education have criticized the reliance on an interim committee for the evaluation process. In response, the Education Ministry clarified that the procedures followed were legal and in accordance with a temporary provision in the amended law, emphasizing the careful selection process to ensure representation and balance among committee members. Super-Regional Growth Engine Models Selected with Up to 600 Billion Won Investment On September 8, the Education Ministry announced the results of the evaluation for the Super-Regional Growth Engine Talent Development Project. Out of 19 collaborative models submitted nationwide, six were selected after a review process. The ministry plans to invest up to 150 billion won annually for each selected model over four years, totaling a maximum of 600 billion won, with the goal of training approximately 14,000 local talents by 2030. The selected models include: ▲ Gyeongnam (lead) - Incheon - Gangwon (lead university: Gyeongnam National University): AI transformation in manufacturing and AI robotics (training 2,600 people over four years) ▲ Gyeongbuk (lead) - Daegu (lead university: National Kumi University): Advanced materials and components for semiconductors and AI manufacturing robots (training 3,000 people over four years) ▲ Sejong (lead) - Chungbuk (lead university: Korea University Sejong): Semiconductor field (training 2,800 people over four years) ▲ Jeonnam-Gwangju (lead university: National Mokpo University): Renewable energy field (training 1,500 people over four years) ▲ Jeonbuk (lead) - Gyeonggi (lead university: Woosuk University): Hydrogen and physical AI (training 2,000 people over four years) ▲ Chungnam (lead) - Gyeonggi - Daegu (lead university: Dankook University): AI-based advanced bio field (training 2,000 people over four years). The ministry plans to finalize the budget distribution details later this month after a 10-day period for appeals. First-Year Evaluation Results Released: Gwangju, Busan, Chungnam Earn S Grade, Seoul, Sejong, Jeonbuk, Chungbuk C Grade The first-year evaluation results, which comprehensively assessed the performance and foundation building of the project in 2025 across 17 cities and provinces, were also released. Based on the evaluation, a grading system of four levels (S, A, B, C) was established, with the Education Ministry utilizing the 400 billion won performance budget to provide financial support ranging from a minimum of 80% (C grade) to a maximum of 120% (S grade) compared to the baseline for 2025. In the grading, Gwangju, Busan, and Chungnam received S grades, while A grades were awarded to Gangwon, Gyeonggi, Gyeongnam, Daejeon, and Ulsan. Gyeongbuk, Daegu, Incheon, Jeonnam, and Jeju received B grades, and Seoul, Sejong, Jeonbuk, and Chungbuk were classified as C grade. The Education Ministry shared comprehensive feedback from the evaluation, highlighting both exemplary and inadequate cases. Notable successes included the establishment of a field-centered administrative support system through 1:1:1 matching among local governments, centers, and universities, as well as the promotion of competition among universities through a public offering method. However, shortcomings included unclear evaluation criteria for selection, unilateral changes to budget distribution principles after evaluations, low execution rates, excessive budget carryovers, and a lack of coherence between university specialization and individual project operations. Delay in Anchor Committee Formation Raises Concerns Over Interim Decisions Concerns have been raised regarding the independence and procedural integrity of the evaluation process, as the results were supposed to be confirmed by the official deliberation of the Central Anchor Committee. However, due to delays in forming the committee, the evaluation was conducted by an interim body. A former member of the Central RISE Committee stated in a conversation with Aju Economy that, “The terms of the previous committees chair and members expired on July 10, but a new committee has not been formed.” They criticized the reliance on the Local University and Regional Balanced Talent Development Support Committee, led by the Education Minister and including deputy ministers from various government departments, as a bureaucratic workaround. In response, the Education Ministry defended the process as a legitimate procedure under legal provisions. Choi Woo-sung, head of the Regional University Support Division, stated, “The claim that the committee was neglected is not true. The delay was due to a careful review of recommendations for committee members from across the country to ensure balance and representation.” Choi added that the Local University Support Committee is a permanent body based on existing legislation, and the evaluation was conducted under a specific transitional provision allowing for interim operations for six months until the new committee is formed. He assured that the independent Central Anchor Committee would be established without further delays. Education Ministry Responds to Administrative Confusion Criticism Meanwhile, differing perspectives have emerged regarding the administrative support confusion experienced by local governments and universities at the projects outset. Another local anchor representative noted, “There were significant confusions among local officials compared to other departments, as the Education Ministrys administrative manuals and guidelines were not clear.” In response, the Education Ministry rejected vague criticisms lacking specific evidence. Choi stated, “We find it difficult to agree with unilateral claims of haphazard operations without any concrete examples or circumstances, and it is challenging to respond to such assertions.” He emphasized the ministrys commitment to enhancing communication with the field to systematically establish the project as it moves forward. September 8, 2026 1
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K-Bio Targets Middle East: South Korea's FDA Collaborates with UAE for Export Opportunities The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) is partnering with regulatory agencies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to support the expansion of K-Bio into the Middle East. On September 8, the MFDS announced it will hold a meeting with a delegation of seven members, including Fatima Al Kaabi, head of the UAEs medical product regulatory agency (EDE), to assist domestic bio companies in entering the UAE market. The MFDS stated, We are strengthening regulatory cooperation in the biopharmaceutical sector with the UAE while creating practical opportunities for domestic companies looking to enter the Middle Eastern market by facilitating direct communication with EDE. The meeting will include An Young-jin, head of the MFDSs Bio-Pharmaceutical Bureau, and representatives from four domestic companies: BioSolution, Corestem ChemOn, Cha Bio & Diostech, and Organoid Science.Domestic companies will present their key products and technologies, as well as their plans for entering the UAE market, directly to EDE. They will also engage in a Q&A session regarding the regulatory procedures and requirements for market entry in the UAE. Additionally, the EDE delegation plans to visit cell and gene therapy (CGT) research facilities after the meeting. They will examine the research environment, key facilities, and equipment related to cell therapy research and development, assessing the technological level of South Koreas advanced biopharmaceuticals. The MFDS emphasized, We will continue to actively promote field-oriented regulatory diplomacy that connects our cooperation network with foreign regulatory agencies to create practical export opportunities for our companies and support the global market entry of K-Bio. Previously, the MFDS was officially recognized as a reference agency in the medical product sector by the UAEs EDE. This recognition allows the MFDS to submit applications for UAE approvals without needing approvals from the United States or Europe, streamlining the certification process and reducing the time required. Currently, the countries recognized by the UAE as reference agencies include the United States, Europe, the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, Australia, and the GCC.* This article has been translated by AI. September 8, 2026 1
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GC Green Cross Develops AI-Based Vaccine Quality Control System for Pandemic Response GC Green Cross announced on September 8 that it has been selected as the lead research institution for a project titled Development of AI-Based Vaccine Manufacturing Variability Control and Intelligent Quality Management System, organized by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology (KEIT). The project will involve collaboration with Mokpo National University, Daegu Catholic University, and the Jeonnam Bio Promotion Agency, with GC Green Cross at the forefront. The initiative will run from this year until 2030, spanning a total of four years and six months. The participating institutions plan to establish an AI-based smart manufacturing and quality management (AI-GMP) ecosystem, utilizing the mRNA-LNP GMP production infrastructure at the Hwasun Bio-specialized Complex and the GC Green Cross Hwasun plant. mRNA-LNP technology encapsulates messenger RNA (mRNA) containing genetic information in lipid nanoparticles (LNP) for stable delivery to cells. This technology was commercialized through the COVID-19 vaccine and is being utilized as a next-generation vaccine platform. The primary goal of the development is to link AI with GMP to control variability in real-time throughout the manufacturing process of mRNA-LNP vaccines, from drug substance (DS) to finished product (DP), and to optimize quality. The company aims to minimize quality variability between batches by integrating continuous process analytical technology with AI models, establishing a real-time quality prediction and anomaly detection system to ensure consistent high-quality vaccine production. Lee In-kyu, head of the GC Green Cross Hwasun plant, stated, We will successfully develop the AI-GMP intelligent platform to maximize the quality consistency of mRNA vaccines and complete a key asset that can respond quickly and reliably to new pandemics in the future. In related news, GC Green Cross recently received approval from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety for the clinical trial application (IND) of its high-immunogenic influenza vaccine candidate, GC3114B. The Phase 2/3 clinical trial will evaluate the immunogenicity and safety of GC3114B in individuals aged 65 and older, comparing it directly with an active control group. GC Green Cross plans to begin dosing the first patient in Phase 2 in the second half of this year, with Phase 3 trials to be conducted as multinational studies. GC3114B is designed to induce a stronger immune response in older adults by including more antigens than standard-dose influenza vaccines.* This article has been translated by AI. September 8, 2026 1
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Kim Seung-won Under Investigation for Alleged Improper Requests in New Drug Trials The Seoul Yeongdeungpo Police Station is investigating allegations against Kim Seung-won, the nominee for Minister of Justice, who is accused of making improper requests during the approval process for a COVID-19 new drug clinical trial.On the morning of September 8, the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency announced that it had assigned the case against Kim to the Yeongdeungpo Police Station.The Yeongdeungpo Police are expected to conduct a legal review based on the complaint and summon the complainants for questioning.On September 4, former Seoul City Council member Lee Jong-bae and the civic group Citizens Livelihood Countermeasures Committee submitted a complaint to the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, requesting an investigation into Kim for abuse of power and violations of the anti-corruption law.Analysts suggest that the assignment of the investigation team indicates a consideration for reopening the case. On September 7, Seoul Metropolitan Police Chief Ko Beom-seok stated at a press conference that the police are reviewing whether they can reopen the investigation into the allegations, which the prosecution had previously decided not to pursue in December 2024.Kim is accused of requesting approval for a clinical trial of the new drug from the bio company Genensel to then-Commissioner Kim Kang-rip of the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety at the request of a broker he was close with in 2021. The complainants argue that Kims request to ensure the clinical approval was handled properly constitutes abuse of power.In response to the allegations, Kim stated the previous day, I have never made any improper requests to the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, nor has the review process been conducted unfairly. The prosecution also acknowledged that there were no improper requests or distortions in the review process.* This article has been translated by AI. September 8, 2026 1
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Celltrion Partners with Japan's Bio Cluster to Foster Startup Ecosystem 셀트리온이 일본 최대 바이오 클러스터인 고베 바이오메디컬 혁신 클러스터(KBIC)와 협력해 유망 바이오 스타트업 육성에 나선다.양측은 8일 도쿄 산학관 협의체인 라이프사이언스 네트워크 재팬(LINK-J) 사옥에서 오프라인 설명회를 열고 '2026 KBIC-셀트리온 글로벌 스케일업 프로그램'을 본격 추진한다고 밝혔다. 이번 사업은 국내 기업이 일본 바이오 클러스터와 공동 기획·운영하는 첫 한일 민관 협력 오픈 이노베이션 프로그램이다.참가 기업은 이달부터 12월까지 모집한다. 서류·발표 심사를 거쳐 내년 3월 최종 2개 기업을 선정할 계획이다.모집 대상은 셀트리온의 기술 수요와 연계할 수 있는 혁신 기술 기반 바이오 스타트업이다. 항체, 펩타이드, 저분자화합물, 항노화 등이 주요 분야다.선정 기업은 2027년 한 해 동안 기술 및 사업 역량 고도화를 위한 맞춤형 육성 프로그램에 참여한다. 셀트리온은 의약품 연구개발(R&D)부터 허가, 생산, 글로벌 상업화까지 전 과정에 대한 멘토링과 기술 자문을 제공한다. 정부·지자체, 산학협력 기관, 벤처캐피탈(VC) 등과의 네트워크도 활용한다. 선정 기업과 공동연구를 통해 차세대 파이프라인 발굴 등 실질적인 협력도 추진할 방침이다.KBIC는 운영기관인 고베의료산업도시추진기구(FBRI)를 통해 스타트업별 맞춤형 엑셀러레이팅을 지원한다. R&D, 특허·지식재산권, 투자 유치, 사업 전략 등 분야별 전문가를 기업별로 매칭해 컨설팅을 제공한다. 양측은 국내 투자기관과의 일대일 미팅과 데모데이 등을 통해 투자 유치 기회도 마련한다. 이를 통해 유망 기술의 상업화와 글로벌 시장 진출을 지원한다는 계획이다. 셀트리온은 일본의 기초연구 역량과 바이오 인프라에 자사의 글로벌 사업화 경험을 결합해 시너지를 낼 것으로 기대하고 있다. 단순 투자나 기술 확보를 넘어 스타트업의 독자적인 성장을 지원하는 생태계 구축을 오픈 이노베이션 전략의 핵심으로 삼는다는 방침이다. 셀트리온 관계자는 "이번 프로그램은 한국과 일본의 강점을 결합해 유망 바이오 스타트업의 성장을 지원하는 협력 모델이 될 것"이라며 "앞으로도 혁신 기술을 보유한 신생 기업들이 글로벌 시장으로 도약할 수 있도록 오픈 이노베이션 생태계 조성에 적극 나서겠다"고 말했다.* This article has been translated by AI. September 8, 2026 0
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CJ CheilJedang's K-Soju 'Jari' Wins Awards at Global Spirits Competitions CJ CheilJedangs premium distilled spirit brand Jari has proven its product competitiveness by winning multiple awards at prestigious global spirits competitions ahead of its entry into the U.S. market this fall.On September 8, CJ CheilJedang announced that all three of its entries—Jari Munbaeju 24, Jari Munbaeju 41, and Jari Gamuchi 24—received awards at the 2026 International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) and the 2026 International Spirits Challenge (ISC).At the IWSC, Jari Munbaeju 24 and Jari Munbaeju 41 each won silver medals, while Jari Gamuchi 24 took home a bronze. Jari Munbaeju 41 scored 94 points, and Jari Munbaeju 24 received 91 points, with judges praising their fruity aromas, smooth textures, and balanced flavors.In the ISC, Jari Munbaeju 24 was awarded a gold medal, while Jari Munbaeju 41 and Jari Gamuchi 24 each received silver medals. The ISC is recognized as one of the top three global spirits competitions, alongside the IWSC and the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC), where spirits are evaluated by a panel of expert judges through blind tastings based on quality, flavor, and craftsmanship.Jari is a premium distilled soju brand made from original extracts produced at traditional Korean liquor breweries. In July, CJ CheilJedang launched Jari Munbaeju 24 and Jari Gamuchi 24 in South Korea in collaboration with Munbaeju Brewery and Danong Bio.CJ CheilJedang plans to introduce Jari to the U.S. market this fall, aiming to promote the brand as a distilled spirit that can be enjoyed alongside K-food, thereby expanding opportunities for consumers to experience Korean cuisine and beverages together.A representative from CJ CheilJedang stated, It is meaningful to have Jari recognized for its quality at global spirits competitions. We will continue to collaborate with domestic breweries to promote the appeal of K-spirits and expand opportunities for global consumers to experience the diversity of Korean food culture.* This article has been translated by AI. September 8, 2026 0
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Aribio Receives Approval for Four Next-Generation HA Fillers in Indonesia Aribio and Aribio Lab are entering the Indonesian market with four self-developed hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers. On September 8, Aribio Group announced that its next-generation HA filler brand, Bidan, has received final product approval from Indonesias Food and Drug Administration (BPOM). Indonesia, with a population of approximately 300 million, is the worlds fourth most populous country and has seen growth in its skincare market alongside economic development. With this approval, Aribio Group is entering discussions with global aesthetic companies for the supply and launch of the fillers. The company plans to secure distribution channels and rapidly increase market share in collaboration with local major partners. Bidan is an HA filler developed over seven years in partnership with university hospitals, targeting the anti-aging and medical aesthetic markets. According to the company, it utilizes its proprietary Precise Control Refinement Technique (PCRT) to enhance the homogeneity and viscoelasticity of HA particles. The product aims to achieve a soft particle composition and properties suitable for its intended use, as suggested by its name, Bidan. The company also applied the HCCL method, which reduces residual cross-linking agents. This technology minimizes potential immune reactions and side effects after filler procedures and reduces heavy metal residues. Bidan received domestic marketing approval after confirming biocompatibility, efficacy, and safety through human application tests conducted by Professor Heo Chang-hoon’s team at Seoul National University Hospital. Meanwhile, this year, the total value of technology export contracts for domestic pharmaceutical and biotech companies has surpassed 21 trillion won. Aribios contract, valued at over 7 trillion won, follows similar large-scale agreements by Hanmi Pharmaceutical and Alteogen. Aribio Group is simultaneously developing treatments for Alzheimers disease and aesthetic products. The company is currently analyzing data ahead of the global Phase 3 clinical trial results for its oral Alzheimers treatment, AR1001, and plans to expand the export of anti-aging products, including fillers.* This article has been translated by AI. September 8, 2026 0