K-brands gain new shield against overseas counterfeits

Korea is taking decisive action to safeguard its K-beauty, K-food and K-fashion industries from overseas counterfeits, as global demand for these products surges. The Ministry of SMEs and Startups and the Korean Intellectual Property Office have announced plans to establish a joint council to combat trademark and design infringement, and to support small businesses venturing into international markets.

The council's first meeting took place on Friday at Government Complex Daejeon, bringing together representatives from the ministry, the Korea SMEs and Startups Agency, the Korean Intellectual Property Office, and the Korean Intellectual Property Protection Agency. These agencies plan to leverage overseas resources to combat unauthorized trademark registrations, counterfeits, and other forms of intellectual property theft.

The Korea SMEs and Startups Agency currently operates 22 Global Business Centers in 14 countries, while the Korean Intellectual Property Protection Agency maintains overseas intellectual property centers. The agencies will utilize these facilities to share vital information and respond swiftly to cases involving infringement. By fostering collaboration and coordination among these agencies, Korea aims to bolster the protection of small businesses and preserve the integrity of its renowned K-industries.