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Interview with Managing Partner Soon woong Kim – \'Supporting IP Growth in the Era of Technological Hegemony\' September 13, 2024
특허법인정진
2025-04-21
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“In today’s era of technological dominance, Jungjin IP Law Firm is fully equipped to support the entire innovation lifecycle—ranging from idea conception to protection and commercialization. We aim to be Korea’s leading partner in strengthening patents and intellectual property,” said Soon woong, Kim, Managing Partner of Jungjin IP Law Firm, in a recent interview with etnews.
Founded in 2006, Jungjin IP Law Firm is a comprehensive IP service provider specializing in patents, utility models, trademarks, and design applications. The firm also offers litigation and trial services, supports clients in commercializing their ideas, and protects R&D results throughout the innovation cycle. By promoting technology transfer and early-stage startup support, Jungjin is setting a new standard in IP monetization.
Q. Could you briefly introduce Jungjin IP Law Firm?
“At a high level, we help inventors and companies protect and utilize their technologies and ideas. Internally, our firm is structured into specialized teams—mechanical, electronics, biotech, chemical, trademarks, and design—to provide tailored filing strategies across technical fields.
We also operate a Technology Commercialization & Consulting Division to manage IP portfolios, support tech transfer, and guide clients’ R&D efforts. This helps enhance the quality of inventions while providing commercialization consulting for patented technologies.”
Q. What are some of the firm’s key achievements?
“We manage IP portfolios for over 40 major domestic universities and more than 10 national research institutes. We also support tech protection for startups and SMEs.
In 2021, we successfully transferred the 'NK Cell' technology from the Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB) to a company—a deal valued at KRW 150 billion, showcasing effective IP monetization. We also assist clients in business formation. For example, we supported vaccine developer Quratis from its early stages through to a successful IPO.”
Q. Any strategic advice on patent protection?
“While many companies now understand the value of patents, the details matter. A common misconception is that faster is always better when filing patents. Due to the first-to-file principle, the earlier filing party typically secures the rights. However, once a patent is filed, its term begins to count down—so the timing must be strategic.
Also, patents require disclosure. Once an invention is disclosed, securing a patent afterward becomes more difficult. Internal leaks or prematurely filed platform technologies may also limit broader applications. That’s why partnering with IP experts is essential to develop a well-timed and well-rounded strategy.”
Q. What are your aspirations as a managing partner and patent attorney?
“Since starting my career in 2001, I’ve seen a growing respect for intellectual property and professional IP services in Korea. However, compared to advanced countries, awareness of strategic IP management still needs improvement. I’m committed to working closely with inventors, businesses, and fellow IP professionals to strengthen Korea’s global competitiveness in both technology and IP.”
— etnews, September 12, 2024