The Korea Biotechnology Industry Organization (KoreaBIO), in partnership with the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, hosted the 2024 Korea Biotechnology Industry Day on Thursday at the Westin Josun Seoul Hotel. The event celebrated achievements in the biotechnology sector, with 33 individuals receiving ministerial commendations for their contributions.

Now in its fifth year, the event brought together over 200 attendees, including industry leaders, award recipients, and their families. Notable participants included KoreaBIO Chairman Ko Han-sung, Ministry Director General of International Trade Affairs Lee Seung-ryul, Korea Planning and Evaluation Institute of Industrial Technology (KEIT) President Chun Yoong-jong, and Korea Bio-Cluster Federation Chairman Ahn Taek-won.

The ceremony recognized 48 individuals and organizations across eight categories, including export growth, job creation, innovative growth, workforce development, and biosafety management. Among the honorees, 33 were awarded by the Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy.

Prominent awardees included John Rim, CEO of Samsung Biologics; Ahn Jae-yong, CEO of SK bioscience; and Richard Lee, CEO of Lotte Biologics. 

In the export growth category, IMBdx, a liquid biopsy platform provider; INIBIO, an aesthetic science platform; and Curiosis Inc., a cell-based research solutions provider, were recognized.

For job creation, Richard Lee of Lotte Biologics was honored, while John Rim and Kang Ji-hee, CEO of AtoGen, received awards in the innovative growth category. Workforce development recognitions went to educators and researchers from institutions such as Ajou University, Cheongju University, and the KoreaBIO workforce development program.

In the R&D excellence category, awardees included Lee Seul-ki, CEO of D&D Pharmatech; Kim Yong-zu, CEO of LigaChem Biosciences; and Ha Gyong-sik, CEO of IMBiologics, among others.

The biosafety management category honored SK bioscience and CKD BiO, while the bio-specialized centers category recognized the Jeonnam Bioindustry Foundation and the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology.

“While the bio-health sector faces challenges such as reduced private venture capital investments, designation of listed companies as under management, and delistings, today’s awardees and their companies have achieved remarkable results in R&D, production, and exports through their dedication," Chairman Ko noted in his opening remarks. 

"KoreaBIO will continue to listen to the voices of companies, identify the business and policy needs of various bio enterprises, and seek breakthroughs to ensure the sustained growth of Korea’s bio industry," he added.