Bioplus-Interphex (BIX) Korea 2024, a comprehensive biotechnology convention hosted by KoreaBIO and Reed Exhibitions Korea (RX), kicked off its three-day run at COEX in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Wednesday.

BIX 2024 covers a broad spectrum of the bioindustry, including contract development and manufacturing (CDMO), materials, parts, and equipment, digital healthcare, and cold chain logistics.

The convention aims to provide attendees with extensive insights across these sectors. This year's conference theme, "Embrace All Possibilities," reflects the focus on exploring growth opportunities and achieving innovation through embracing various possibilities.

According to the organizers, the event is expected to attract around 10,000 visitors worldwide. Over 250 companies from 15 countries are participating, intending to build new business ventures through partnering sessions.

Samsung Biologics, for the first time, has also set up a solo booth at BIX 2024.

The company plans to actively promote its expanding contract manufacturing organization (CMO) capabilities and contract development organization (CDO) technology platforms, showcasing its enhanced global CDMO capabilities.

According to Samsung Biologics, it has over 20 pre-scheduled meetings with clients, not including walk-in meetings, which are expected to increase during the event.

In addition to the exhibition booths, 25 sessions are scheduled, featuring experts from diverse fields.

On the opening day, the highlight was the keynote speech by Richard D. Braatz, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), discussing the current state and future prospects of mRNA-based therapies.

The convention will also introduce a new "Insight Session" platform, which will feature 13 sessions led by leading global and Korean biopharmaceutical companies.

Notably, Samsung Bioepis will present the "Operation Status of the Testing Program for Material Component Equipment Products Developed by Korean Suppliers," while IQVIA Korea will deliver a report on the "Latest Trends in Global Clinical and Regulatory Affairs."

During the opening ceremony, Ko Han-sung, the KoreaBIO Chairman and Samsung Bioepis CEO, acknowledged the common criticism that bio conferences often lack engaging content.

He emphasized that BIX 2024 is distinct, offering attendees the opportunity to observe and interact with prototypes and existing products from various companies. He highlighted the importance of fostering cooperative relationships between companies through these hands-on experiences and the carefully curated seminar sessions featuring expert speakers.

"People often say there isn't much to see at typical bio conferences," Ko said. "We have made a concerted effort to differentiate ourselves by allowing attendees to view and experience each company's prototypes and existing products firsthand."

The organizers have worked hard to facilitate collaboration among companies by enabling them to use products directly and receive related explanations, he added.

Addressing the prolonged downturn in the domestic bio-industry, Ko remained optimistic about a turnaround.

"The bio-industry has been facing a longer-than-expected downturn," he said. "While we thought the end of the Covid-19 pandemic would bring a return to normalcy, challenges have persisted due to strikes by physicians."

However, the industry is beginning to see the light at the end of this long tunnel, and it seems that it has to endure just a bit longer, he added.

Ko also expressed gratitude for the government's support of the bio-industry.

"The government is providing a foundation for the bio-industry to excel," he noted. "If the industry continues to build its capabilities and respond effectively, I believe the bio-industry can play a significant role among Korea's various sectors in the future."

Vice Industry Minister Kang Kyung-sung attended the opening ceremony, reiterating the government's commitment to fostering a robust ecosystem for domestic bio companies to enhance their global competitiveness.

"I hope that BIX 2024 would serve as a catalyst for growth in the Korean bio-industry and expand business opportunities between domestic and international companies," he said.