# Trademark Similarity Case: Woori Doori

The graphic and word elements of each mark are not so inseparably connected that separate assessment would be unnatural. Nor does their combination create a new concept. The elements can therefore be considered separately when comparing the marks.

Source: https://www.iplexlaw.co.kr/en/blog/956010

HOME / NEWS & INSIGHTS NEWS & INSIGHTS Trademark Similarity Case: Woori Doori The graphic and word elements of each mark are not so inseparably connected that separate assessment would be unnatural. Nor does their combination create a new concept. The elements can therefore be considered separately when comparing the marks. Trademarks 2023.11.22 published IPLEX 3 min read 2001 Heo 6032 (dismissed) Category Cited mark Applied-for mark Mark Designated Goods Class 18: diaper bags, mountaineering bags, parasols, umbrellas and schoolbags [Similarity of the marks] The graphic and word elements of each mark are not so inseparably connected that separate assessment would be unnatural. Nor does their combination create a new concept. The elements can therefore be considered separately when comparing the marks. The graphics and wording in both marks could be perceived separately. Other registrations containing Woori, and the possible meaning “the two of us,” did not establish that Woori lacked distinctiveness for the designated bags. The applied-for mark would be pronounced by its wording “Woori Doori”. The cited mark would be pronounced by “WOOLI·BOOLI”. Although English R and L differ phonetically, both are represented by the Korean consonant rieul, and Korean consumers may not consistently distinguish them. The cited mark is therefore likely to be pronounced “uri buri”. Compared with “uri duri”, only the initial consonant of the third syllable differs, d versus b; the number of syllables and the remaining sounds are identical. The pronunciations were accordingly regarded as very similar. Although the marks differ in appearance and concept, their similar pronunciations could cause confusion when used on identical or similar goods. The goods also overlapped, including mountaineering bags and backpacks, and were identical or similar. [Decisions] The marks differ in appearance and concept but are similar in pronunciation. Use on identical or similar goods could cause confusion as to source, so the court found them similar. Read the Korean source This article reflects the information available when it was published. Contact us to discuss your circumstances. Discuss this topic ↗ All articles Related service: Designs & trade marks ↗ Related service: IP disputes & appeals ↗ TALK TO IPLEX Discuss your IP questions We consider your technology and business needs together. ↗ Contact us Newer Service Mark Similarity: Case Review ↗ Older Trademark Similarity: ELOCOM versus Elecom ↗ Related insights Trademarks 2026.10.01 TikTok for confectionery: dilution can prevent registration in Korea Korean Patent Court case 2025Heo10379 explains why different goods and later commercial success did not overcome the reputation and distinctiveness of TikTok. ↗ Read article Trademarks 2026.09.30 Can Fear of a Trade Mark Dispute Justify Non-Use? Korean Supreme Court decision 2024후10504 separates an intention to launch from actual use and objective obstacles beyond the owner’s control. ↗ Read article Trademarks 2026.09.29 An App Name: A Mark for Software or for the Service It Delivers? The 010PAY decision, 2025허10405, considers actual transactions, revenue and the proper subject of Korean trade mark scope proceedings. ↗ Read article

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