South Korea

Under the Korean patent system, two types of patents can be protected by the law.  One is an invention patent and the other is a utility model.  In order for an invention to be patentable, it must possess industrial applicability, novelty and inventiveness.

The prosucution procedure for both patent and utility model applications in Korea is the same.  During the application process, after the application is submitted at the Korean Patent Office, it will go through formality examination.  Once the applicant files a request for examination, the application will proceed to substantive examination stage.  If all requirements are fully met, the application will be granted and published.

The life time of a patent is 20 years calculated from the filing date of the application.

The life time of a utility model is 10 years calculated from the filing date of the application.

Invention Patent

Utility Model Patent

Design Patent

Renewal for Invention Patent

4th to 6th annuities (per annum)

7th to 9th annuities (per annum)

10th to 12th annuities (per annum)

13th to 15th annuities (per annum)

16th to 18th annuities (per annum)

19th to 21st annuities (per annum)

22nd to 25th annuities (per annum)

Renewal for Utility Model Patent

Renewal for Design Patent