The Korea Drug Development Fund (KDDF) announced its intention to strengthen its role as a connecting platform to expand global bio investment and cooperation.
During the opening speech at the 2026 Global Biotech Showcase held at the Fairmont Ambassador Seoul in Yeongdeungpo on Wednesday, KDDF Director Park Young-min emphasized that simple research and development (R&D) support is no longer sufficient. Innovation must lead to global capital, strategic partnerships, and commercialization opportunities.
Director Park welcomed representatives from global pharmaceutical companies, investment firms, venture capital, and biotech enterprises, highlighting the growth potential of the Korean biotech industry.
He noted that over the past decade, the Korean biotech ecosystem has achieved remarkable growth. Domestic companies are producing high-level research outcomes with global potential across various modalities and therapeutic areas.
He further explained that KDDF has supported over 500 projects from early discovery to clinical development stages.
Park also mentioned the limitations of a purely support-focused policy in light of recent changes in the global investment environment and intensified technological competition.
Director Park stated that to ensure that innovative technologies lead to actual commercialization and entry into global markets, connecting investments and strategic collaborations is crucial. This showcase has been established as a partnering platform where substantial discussions can lead to real opportunities.
The event will feature company presentations, one-on-one meetings, panel discussions, and networking sessions. Through this event, KDDF aims to expand collaboration opportunities between domestic biotech companies and global investors and pharmaceutical companies.
Director Park expressed hope for active and meaningful exchanges between biotech companies, investors, and global partners over the next two days, adding that he hopes today’s discussions lead to new collaborations and future success stories.
