Pine IP Firm Designated as an Industrial Property Diagnosis Institution

A company's technological competitiveness significantly depends on how strategically it secures and utilizes intellectual property rights (IPR), particularly patents. Pine IP Firm has consistently provided patent investigation and analysis services that offer practical assistance to corporate R&D and commercialization efforts. In recognition of these achievements, Pine IP Firm has been designated by the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO) as the sole Industrial Property Diagnosis Institution (IPDI) in Ulsan for 2025. This designation enables us to offer even more specialized and systematic consulting services.

In this article, we would like to introduce the significance of being an Industrial Property Diagnosis Institution, the benefits clients can gain by utilizing our services in this capacity, and the specific services offered by Pine IP Firm.

What is an Industrial Property Diagnosis Institution (IPDI)?

An Industrial Property Diagnosis Institution (IPDI) is a statutory institution designated by KIPO tasked with supporting companies and research institutions in formulating effective Research and Development (R&D) and commercialization strategies. This is achieved through in-depth investigation and analysis of information related to industrial property rights, including patents, utility models, designs, and trademarks.

To receive this designation, an institution must meet stringent requirements regarding professional personnel qualifications, adequate facilities, robust security systems, and must pass a thorough evaluation by KIPO. Consequently, services provided by a designated IPDI are characterized by high levels of expertise and credibility.

What are the Benefits of Utilizing an Industrial Property Diagnosis Institution (IPDI)?

1. Strengthening R&D Competitiveness:Patent trends provide crucial clues not only for directing technology development but also for predicting future market shifts. By leveraging IPDI services, companies can:
   • Minimize infringement risks through competitor patent analysis.
   • Identify promising or "white-space" technologies to preemptively secure unique core patents.
   • Enhance R&D investment efficiency and secure a competitive market advantage.
2. Dispute Prevention and Commercialization Strategy Formulation:Another key advantage of engaging an IPDI is the assistance provided in proactively preventing patent disputes and formulating successful commercialization strategies. This includes:
   • Early detection of potential patent infringement issues that might have been overlooked during the technology development process.
   • Collaborative development of international patent strategies before product/service launches, thereby reducing risks associated with global market entry.
3. Tax Credit Benefits for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs):Expenses incurred for patent investigation and analysis services provided by an IPDI are eligible for the R&D tax credit in Korea.
   • According to Appendix 6 of the Enforcement Decree of the Restriction of Special Taxation Act, costs paid by SMEs to an IPDI for patent investigation and analysis qualify for tax credits.
   • Companies can receive tax credits of up to 25% to 50% on the investigation and analysis costs funded by their own contributions (out-of-pocket expenses).
   • This allows companies to enhance their IPR competitiveness while simultaneously reducing the financial burden.

Services Offered by Pine IP Firm

Leveraging years of accumulated know-how, Pine IP Firm provides the following tailored patent consulting services as a designated IPDI:

• Patent Trend Investigation & Analysis:
  • Domestic and international market/technology trend analysis and competitor patent mapping.
  • Prior art searches and patentability assessments.
• R&D Strategy Support:
  • Patent portfolio building strategies linked to identifying new R&D projects.
  • Guidance on creating innovative technologies and securing core patents.
• Commercialization & Dispute Response:
  • Consulting on commercialization pathways, including licensing, technology transfer, and investment attraction.
  • Proactive assessment of potential dispute risks and advisory services for litigation response.
• Customized Corporate Training:
  • Tailored patent education programs ranging from IP basics to advanced analytical techniques.
  • Practical technical and legal advice directly applicable to on-site work.

In Closing

In the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, patent strategy is synonymous with a company's future competitiveness. As a designated Industrial Property Diagnosis Institution, Pine IP Firm is committed to providing comprehensive support for our clients' R&D and commercialization activities, leveraging not only our professional expertise but also our practical know-how and extensive case experience.

Should you have any questions regarding intellectual property rights or require patent investigation and analysis, please do not hesitate to contact Pine IP Firm at any time. From building a robust IP portfolio to leveraging tax credit benefits, we strive to be your steadfast partner.

Thank you.