SK bioscience, a global vaccine and biotech innovator committed to advancing human health, announced today that the Supreme Court of Korea has ruled in its favor in a major patent lawsuit filed by Pfizer. The case centered on SK’s 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13), SKYPneumo.
Pfizer’s Claims Rejected by the Court
In 2020, Pfizer alleged that SK bioscience’s export of individual PCV13 conjugate bulk substances and finished products for research use in Russia infringed on the composition patent of its vaccine, Prevnar 13. However, the Supreme Court upheld a previous ruling that the individual conjugates used by SK do not fall within the scope of Pfizer’s patent. Additionally, the court clarified that producing and exporting vaccines for research purposes does not constitute patent infringement.
Reviving Opportunities for SKYPneumo
SK bioscience successfully developed SKYPneumo, Korea’s first PCV13, in 2016. Despite its achievement, the company has faced restrictions on manufacturing and selling the vaccine in South Korea due to ongoing patent constraints with Pfizer, which are set to expire in 2027. With this legal victory, SK bioscience plans to revive and scale its pneumococcal vaccine business internationally.
Strategic Expansion into Global Markets
Following the court’s decision, SK bioscience will begin exporting individual PCV13 components to countries with significant vaccine demand, particularly in Southeast Asia and Latin America. Simultaneously, the company is exploring technology transfers and local partnerships to strengthen its global footprint.
Focus on Next-Generation Pneumococcal Vaccines
Looking ahead, SK bioscience plans to manufacture and distribute SKYPneumo domestically after 2027. Moreover, it is collaborating with global pharmaceutical leader Sanofi on the development of a 21-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, which entered Phase 3 global trials in late 2024. The partnership is also advancing a next-generation vaccine designed to offer broader protection.
Market Outlook and Growth Potential
As per the SK bioscience press release, the global pneumococcal vaccine market is expanding rapidly. According to Global Market Insights, it is expected to reach USD 15.1 billion (KRW 21.55 trillion) by 2034, growing at a CAGR of approximately 5.6%. Government-led immunization programs and support from WHO and Gavi are key drivers of this growth. SK bioscience’s established record in public vaccine supply and partnerships with global health agencies position it to capitalize on this upward trend.
CEO Highlights Impact of Legal Win
“This court decision ensures that a vaccine developed through Korean innovation will not go to waste, but instead gain new life globally,” said SK bioscience CEO Jaeyong Ahn. “We will harness this momentum to enhance access to high-quality vaccines, contribute to global supply stability, and drive sustainable growth.”
Victory Against Moderna’s mRNA Patent in Korea
In a parallel legal development, SK bioscience also achieved a decisive win in a patent invalidation case against Moderna. The Korean court invalidated Moderna’s only registered mRNA vaccine manufacturing patent in the country. This patent covered modified nucleosides and related technologies. This outcome reduces legal risks and removes significant barriers for domestic innovation in mRNA research and development.
With these twin legal victories, SK bioscience is poised to expand its role. It will be a key player in both traditional and next-generation vaccine markets.