Korea GSK announced on the 29th that it will begin administering the world's first respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, Arexvy. It will be available for vaccination at hospitals and clinics nationwide starting next month. Arexvy received approval from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in December 2024. The vaccine aims to prevent lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) caused by the respiratory syncytial virus in individuals aged 60 and older. Infection with this virus can lead to complications such as pneumonia or, in severe cases, death. Clinical results showed that the vaccine had a 82.6% efficacy in preventing lower respiratory tract disease among individuals aged 60 and over during the first RSV season after a single dose. The efficacy was 94.6% for those aged 60 and older with one or more comorbidities.
Samsung Bioepis noted on the 29th that it has been selected as an 'Outstanding Corporation in Gender Employment Equality' and received an award from the Minister of Employment and Labor. The company is creating an organizational culture where men and women work equally, while ensuring maternal protection and work-life balance. It operates reduced work hours for pregnant employees, fetal care leave, childcare leave, and maternal protection rooms to enable the 50% of women employees to fully demonstrate their capabilities. Additionally, the company plans to expand the capacity of its in-house daycare center from the current 100 children. Flexible working hours are also available.
GC Genome announced on the 29th that it will enter the Japanese early cancer diagnosis market. The company introduced a multi-cancer early screening test called 'I Can Search.' This test can screen for six high-risk cancers with just one blood draw, including lung, liver, colorectal, pancreatic ductal, esophageal, and ovarian cancer.
Genome & Company announced on the 29th that its cosmetics brand Youik participated in the '2025 Cosmo Beauty Seoul X K-Beauty Festa' at COEX in Seoul. The company showcased the Biome Barrier line, which strengthens the skin barrier; the Biome Remedy line, which has soothing effects; and the Biome Vita C line, which provides hydration and whitening effects. It is discussing the sale of its products in Europe and the Middle East. The fair runs until the 30th.
Genolution announced on the 29th that it signed a business agreement with KYUNGNONG to develop next-generation crop protection agents. Utilizing interference technology based on dsRNA (double-stranded RNA), the companies will create eco-friendly, high-value crop protection agents. Genolution will supply the source materials using its proprietary dsRNA synthesis and analysis technology, while KYUNGNONG will conduct technology validation and field application research to develop the products.
The Jaseng Medical Foundation announced on the 29th that it has signed a 'Mutual Development Agreement' with KB Kookmin Bank. The foundation will select KB Kookmin Bank as its primary banking partner. The bank will offer preferential interest rates on credit loans to the foundation's medical staff and employees. KB Kookmin Bank has also agreed to support funding so that the Jaseng Medical Foundation can expand its social contribution activities. The support period is five years, lasting until May 2030.
Seoul Biohub and Daewon Pharmaceutical announced on the 29th that they will conduct an open innovation program for bio and medical startups. The program will recruit startups and support them with corporate diagnostics, expert consulting, technology validation, and entry into overseas markets. Startups will be able to enhance their business capabilities and promote ecosystem innovation in collaboration with large corporations.