Naver’s image-translation patent: keeping translated text aligned with a moving camera
A practical reading of US12197883B2: selecting a usable frame, recognising and translating text, tracking its position and refreshing stale results.
Read articleNEWS & INSIGHTS
Ideas, developments
and perspectives on IP.
Analysis of IP practice, AI technology and international protection, alongside news from IPLEX. Explore the articles in English.
360 articles and updates
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360 articles
Design similarity can depend on the product before assembly
Korean Patent Court case 2025Na10252 explains why visible connectors, overall visual impression and an employee-designer’s interest in compensation mattered in a planter-panel dispute.
Read articleOEM exports and proof of trade mark use in Korea
The Korean Patent Court examined implied licensing, control over outsourced production and commercial identity in a non-use cancellation dispute involving food exports.
Read articleFlashAttention-2: making long-context attention run efficiently on GPUs
A practical reading of Tri Dao’s paper: tiled attention, reduced non-matrix work and better GPU work partitioning, with kernel benchmarks distinguished from full-model training.
Read articlePatent against patent: when a Korean scope-confirmation trial is admissible
The Supreme Court separates identification of the accused technology from the legal interest required when both parties hold patents.
Read articleMAD-RAG: preserving visual evidence when retrieved text distracts a model
A technical reading of dual-question inputs and attention mixing, separating benchmark gains, recovered errors and deployment limitations.
Read articleCustom moulds and indirect infringement of Korean design rights
The Patent Court explains exclusive use, presumed negligence and a supplier’s liability for moulds used to make infringing containers.
Read articleKAHI: dissimilar goods can still create misleading trade mark associations
Korea’s Patent Court examines consumer deception where an established cosmetics brand is used for dietary supplements.
Read articleBaidu’s RAG approach to conflicts between model answers and retrieved knowledge
US20260087055A1 distinguishes factual and semantic conflicts and describes different routes to a final answer.
Read articleInventive step without hindsight: the curved-cover protective-film decision
Korea’s Supreme Court explains the filing-date perspective and distinguishes inventive step from sufficient disclosure in corrected patent claims.
Read articleInconsistent design drawings: when does a Korean registration survive?
The lightweight building-block decision separates industrial applicability, prior-design comparisons and proof of entitlement.
Read articleCovent Garden: a famous place is not necessarily a recognised service mark
Korea’s Patent Court distinguishes geographic reputation, recognition of commercial origin and an improper purpose in three Covent Garden applications.
Read articleNVIDIA’s draft-token selection: faster LLM inference by choosing what to verify
An analysis of US20260236763A1: speculative decoding, marginal benefit and processing cost, with a hypothetical delivery-support example.
Read articleConcert lightsticks: why a shared colour did not establish patent infringement
Korea’s Supreme Court decision 2024Da228104 examines a preset-group limitation, coordinate-based lighting and the importance of claim context and prosecution history.
Read articleJoint design development: the risk of filing alone in Korea
Korea’s Supreme Court decision 2024Hu11606 explains when drawings, prototypes and specific revisions establish joint creation and why a sole design application can be invalid.
Read articleUruaek and Urusa: confusion and dilution in Korean trade mark law
Korea’s Patent Court considered the reputation of Urusa, the dominant element of Uruaek and the commercial links between medicines and health drinks in case 2026Heo10010.
Read articleDEEPX DX-M1 and edge AI: connecting training with deployment feedback
An analysis of published US application US20260065050A1, using a hypothetical factory inspection workflow to explain heterogeneous processors, model optimisation and evaluation feedback.
Read articleEmployee-invention compensation in Korea: when does the limitation period start?
Supreme Court case 2025Da217407 distinguishes the accrual of a compensation right from the time payment becomes claimable under the employer’s rules.
Read articleInvalidating a Korean design: can a final mediation order be reopened?
Case 2025JaeNa10010 examines how a criminal acquittal following design invalidation can justify reopening a final civil mediation record.
Read articleRemaking branded bags in Korea: private use and trade mark infringement
Korea’s Supreme Court distinguishes a customer’s private remodelling from the commercial supply of new products in case 2024Da311181.
Read articleNew evidence in a patent refusal appeal: supplementing a ground or changing it?
Korea’s Supreme Court distinguished evidence of common general knowledge from a new refusal ground, and confirmed the effect of a deficient claim on the application.
Read articleCombining earlier designs: why familiar elements did not establish easy creation
Korea’s Supreme Court upheld a design against an easy-creation challenge, focusing on the combination method and the aesthetic value of the overall appearance.
Read articleDoctorsNow: regulatory relief and cancellation for non-use
A Korean Patent Court decision examines objective barriers to trademark use, temporary telemedicine permission and the three-year assessment period.
Read articleAttention Residuals: How AI combines earlier layers, and what matters for patents
An accessible explanation of Attention Residuals, Block AttnRes, the limits of the reported results and the implementation details relevant to AI patent drafting.
Read articleKorean patent scope proceedings after testing and disposal of a product
Case 2025Heo10277 distinguishes identification of the compared invention, acts of production and the continuing interest in a scope determination from the merits of infringement.
Read articleFiX: fine-grained forgetting in softmax attention
Yongduck Kim examines FiX’s feature-wise gates, numerical implementation and paged cache, distinguishing reported gains from unresolved limitations.
Read articleSaudi trade marks: filing, deadlines and the Madrid route
A practical guide to Saudi trade mark prosecution, representation, public-order restrictions, Hijri renewal dates and Madrid accession on 8 October 2026.
Read articleDesign similarity in Korea: a concealed end face can still matter
A railing-pipe dispute illustrates the importance of appearances during sale and installation, prior designs and functional features in assessing overall visual impression.
Read articleTikTok 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 articleKorea’s super-accelerated examination: a first decision in one month
Eligibility and practical limits of Korea’s rapid patent, utility-model and trade mark examination tracks, including 2026 expansions and announced next steps.
Read articleWhen a dosage clarification changes a patent claim: Korea’s Supreme Court on correction
Decision 2023Hu11487 examines whether adding a mass-basis explanation to pharmaceutical claims qualifies as an admissible correction.
Read articleMHAR: Reading earlier layers through different feature subspaces
Yongduck Kim examines Multi-Head Attention Residuals: depth routing, reported training results, implementation costs and the relationship between technical features and effects.
Read articleTrade mark protection in the UAE: filing routes, timing and practical requirements
A guide for Korean applicants to direct UAE filing and Madrid designation, including representation, powers of attorney, examination and opposition.
Read articleFood-Container Designs: Giving Proper Weight to Features Already Known
Korean Supreme Court decision 2024후11026 assesses design scope through prior designs and the overall impression of the remaining features.
Read articleCan 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 articleThe Same Cleaning Function Does Not Necessarily Establish Patent Equivalence
Korean Supreme Court decision 2023후11340 examines functional claim language, prosecution history and different cleaning principles.
Read articleHairband Design Validity: Explaining the Visual Effect of the Differences
Korean Patent Court decision 2025허10530 distinguishes routine changes from features requiring a meaningful design contribution.
Read articleAn 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 articleThe Same Prior Art, a Different Rejection: The Applicant’s Opportunity to Respond
Korean Patent Court decision 2025허10293 addresses a changed feature mapping and the procedural right to submit arguments and amendments.
Read articleModel Numbers on Compatible Refills: When Is a Sign Used as a Trade Mark?
Korean Patent Court decision 2025허10434 examines the role of ‘250 SERIES’ in its packaging and market context.
Read articleTrademark Filing in Brazil: Portuguese Specifications, Examination and Registration
A practical guide to Brazilian trademark applications, including Portuguese wording, opposition deadlines, prior use, non-use cancellation and renewal.
Read articleColumn: Claude Computer Use and the Data That Trains AI Agents
Writing for AI Times, IPLEX Managing Partner Yongduck Kim examines the training data behind computer-operating AI agents through U.S. Patent No. 12,585,862.
Read articleTrademark Filing in Mexico: Timelines, Consent Agreements and Declarations of Use
Understand Mexican trademark filing, timelines, consent agreements, opposition, third-anniversary declarations of use and renewals.
Read articleTrademark Filing in India: From Application to Registration
Explore trademark filing in India, prior-user protection, series marks, hearings, the four-month opposition period and coordination with local counsel.
Read articleIP Strategy Begins with Understanding Technology: An IPLEX Interview
Explore how IPLEX combines AI and software expertise with a practical understanding of business strategy. The interview discusses education for founders, mentoring and communication with clients.
Read articleAustralian Trademark Filing and Registration: Procedure, Timing and TM Headstart
A guide for businesses protecting their brands in Australia, covering application, examination and registration, as well as the TM Headstart preliminary assessment service.
Read articleAI Patents: What Can Be Protected and How to Prepare
This guide explains the issues to consider and the materials to prepare when seeking patent protection for AI technology.
Read articleNon-Use Trademark Cancellation: Responses Illustrated by Cases
An overview of non-use cancellation proceedings, with a focus on evidence of trademark use and strategies for responding.
Read articleFiling with a Provisional Specification: Preparing to Protect an Idea
This article explains how filing with a provisional specification can support businesses developing technology while preparing patent applications.
Read articleColumn: Google’s Computer Vision Reinforcement Learning Patent — Learning Rewards, Not Just Answers
AI Times, a Korean AI publication, has published Managing Partner Yongduck Kim's column on artificial intelligence patents.
Read articleA Guide for Companies Selected for the 2026 Overseas Online Platform Entry Support Program
A guide to the process and use of export vouchers for companies selected for the 2026 Overseas Online Platform Entry Support Program.
Read articlePatent Expertise Grounded in AI and Software Technology
We advise on applications and patent strategy for AI, generative AI and LLMs, machine learning, deep learning and software.
Read articleCanadian Trademark Applications: Filing, Registration, Timing and Key Considerations
For businesses entering North America, trademark protection in Canada deserves separate consideration. Although some features resemble Korean practice, filing and registration procedures, descriptions of goods and services, use requirements and non-use cancellation rules differ.
Read articleWhy Trademark Applications Are Refused and How to Respond
A trademark application must meet the requirements for registration. One of the first issues to assess is whether the mark is distinctive.
Read articleTROLL Paper Analysis: Token-Level Trust Regions for More Stable LLM Reinforcement Learning Beyond PPO Clipping
Reward-based reinforcement learning is increasingly used to improve the reasoning capabilities of large language models. PPO-style policy optimization is a common approach. Methods such as GRPO, Dr.GRPO, GSPO and REINFORCE++ modify advantage estimation or normalization while seeking to avoid excessive policy changes in a single update...
Read articleRussian Trademark Applications: Procedure, Registration and Key Rules
Businesses planning to export to Russia or operate there should consider trademark protection before entering the market.
Read articlePartial Examination of Designs: A Route to Faster Protection
Design shapes a product's first impression and influences purchasing decisions. In fast-moving sectors such as fashion and household goods, obtaining protection promptly can be particularly important.
Read articleUnderstanding the Paper “Agentic Reasoning for Large Language Models”
The term AI agent is used widely, but its meaning varies. It may describe a chatbot with search capabilities or a system that plans tasks and operates external tools. Recent research explores these distinctions...
Read articlePhilippine Trademark Applications: Registration and Declarations of Actual Use
The Philippines is an important market for businesses expanding into Southeast Asia. Local trademark protection should be considered before offering goods or services or building a brand there.
Read articleTransferring Patent, Trademark and Design Rights
Patent assignments and other IP transfers frequently arise in technology transactions, startup investments and mergers and acquisitions.
Read articleWhy Do LLMs Lose Track as Conversations Get Longer?
Conversational AI can lose track of requirements as a discussion grows longer. A model may repeat a corrected mistake or continue relying on an earlier assumption even though the conversation remains in its context...
Read articleColumn: Google’s Generative AI Reasoning Patent — Teaching the Process of Thinking
AI Times, a Korean AI publication, has published Managing Partner Yongduck Kim's column on generative AI patents.
Read articleAgentGym-RL Paper Analysis: Training Long-Horizon AI Agents with Multi-Turn Reinforcement Learning
An AI agent asked to navigate a website, find information and recover from a failed action faces a different task from simply answering a question. It must coordinate a sequence of actions, observations and decisions, including correcting errors along the way...
Read articleSingapore Trademark Guide: Filing, Registration, Renewal and Rights Management
Trademark rights are territorial. Businesses entering new markets should consider local protection for the names and logos used for their products and services.
Read articleAI Paper Analysis: In-Place Test-Time Training
Most large language models are deployed with fixed weights after training. Even when a user supplies a long document, the model processes its tokens within the attention mechanism and context window without directly adapting its weights to that document. In-Place Test-Time Training explores an alternative...
Read articleTrademark Coexistence Consent: Can a Similar Mark Be Registered?
A clearance search may reveal an existing registration that is identical or similar to the mark you intend to use.
Read articleThailand Trademark Applications: Filing, Registration, Renewal and Management
As more Korean businesses expand into Southeast Asia, including Thailand, many are seeking local trademark protection before entering the market.
Read articleWhat Is a PCT Application? International Patent Filing and Overseas Strategy
Businesses expanding internationally need to decide when and how to file patent applications abroad.
Read articleIndonesia Trademark Guide: Filing Procedure and Shorter Examination Periods in 2026
Indonesia is one of Southeast Asia's largest consumer markets and an important destination for Korean businesses.
Read articleProtecting Mobile App UI, UX and Icons through Design Rights
UI and UX help distinguish mobile apps and web services. Screen layouts, icons and graphics can be valuable design assets developed through substantial investment.
Read articleMalaysia Trademark Guide: Procedure, Timing, Costs and Key Considerations
Brand protection is increasingly important as Korean businesses expand into Southeast Asia. Interest in Korean brands in Malaysia has grown alongside K-content, K-beauty and K-food.
Read articleClaiming an Earlier Filing Date Abroad: Priority under the Paris Convention
For businesses taking a brand overseas, the timing of foreign trademark applications after the initial Korean filing is an important strategic decision.
Read articleVietnam Trademark Guide: Filing Procedure and Practical Considerations
Vietnam is a major market for Korean businesses. Expansion in cosmetics, food, clothing, household goods and manufacturing makes local trademark protection increasingly important.
Read articleWhen Is a Divisional Patent Application Useful? Concepts and Strategy
A single application may contain several inventions. Divisional applications allow an applicant to separate those inventions and pursue patent protection for them individually.
Read articleUK Trademark Registration after Brexit: Procedure and Key Considerations
Any business preparing to enter the UK market should consider its trademark protection strategy separately.
Read articleSecret Designs: Protecting a New Product before Public Disclosure
Disclosure before launch can expose a carefully developed design to imitation and reveal product-launch or marketing plans. Managing when a design becomes public is therefore an important business consideration.
Read articleColumn: C3.ai Patents and the Future of Enterprise AI Agents
AI Times, a Korean AI publication, has published Managing Partner Yongduck Kim's column on generative AI patents.
Read articleEU Trademark Guide: EUTMs, Registration, Costs and Key Considerations
The European Union is one of the world's largest single markets, with growing trade links to Korea. Korean businesses are expanding across automotive, electronics, chemicals and machinery, as well as cosmetics, food, fashion and IT services.
Read articleTrademark Opposition: Filing Periods, Procedure and Responses
What can you do if a similar trademark has been published for opposition after you have already built your brand?
Read articleIdeas Become Business Assets When They Become Rights
Startup IP work must align protection before disclosure, payment within the project's funding period and the documentation needed for expense reconciliation. At IPLEX, Managing Partner Yongduck Kim analyzes a startup's technology, brand and product appearance to guide patent, trademark and design applications...
Read articleUS Trademark Guide: Registration, Use Requirements and Maintenance
The United States is a major consumer market where brand protection is essential. Unlike Korea, US practice places particular importance on first use and use in commerce, so filing or registration alone does not resolve every question of ownership or protection.
Read articleAccelerated Patent Examination: Eligibility and Timing
One of the most common questions we receive after filing a patent application is “When will it be registered?”
Read articleJapanese Trademark Applications: Procedure and Key Considerations
Japan is a key overseas market for Korean businesses, including those working in food, beauty, content and IT services.
Read articleCan a Disclosed Design Still Be Registered? The Novelty Grace Period
When developing a product, businesses often share it on social media, display it at an exhibition or test demand through crowdfunding before launch.
Read articleColumn: Google’s Self-Refine Patent — AI That Reviews and Revises Its Answers
AI Times, a Korean AI publication, has published Managing Partner Yongduck Kim's column on generative AI patents.
Read articleChinese Trademark Applications: Key Differences from Korean Practice
China is a major consumer market for Korean businesses. Protecting a brand there requires attention to trademark rights as well as the quality of the products or services.
Read articleMadrid International Trademark Applications: Benefits and Key Considerations
A Korean trademark registration does not provide protection in every country. Businesses expanding internationally need to consider the procedures for securing rights in their target markets.
Read articleProtecting Trademarks Abroad: Lessons from the Melona Case in Kazakhstan
As digital distribution expands, Korean brands can attract customers in countries beyond their original target markets. This makes international trademark planning increasingly important.
Read articleAccelerated Trademark Examination: Grounds and Supporting Evidence
A trademark is a sign, such as a word, symbol or shape, used to distinguish one business's goods from those of others.
Read articleMissed Patent Annuities: Expiration and Restoration of Rights
Obtaining a patent is not the end of the process: businesses and inventors also need to maintain it.
Read articleColumn: Qualcomm’s Generative AI Patent and the Future of Image Outpainting
AI Times, a Korean AI publication, has published Managing Partner Yongduck Kim's column on AI patents.
Read articleUS and Korean Trademark Practice: Similarity Analysis under the DuPont Factors
International trademark protection is an important part of business strategy for Korean companies expanding abroad. The US market is particularly significant for global brand planning.
Read articleYongduck Kim Delivers an OASIS IP Lecture for Foreign Entrepreneurs
IPLEX patent attorney Yongduck Kim delivered an IP lecture for international entrepreneurs through the OASIS program.
Read articleArticle 10 of China’s Trademark Law: Absolute Grounds for Refusal
Businesses entering or exporting to China should plan for local trademark protection. Although the system has similarities to Korean practice, important procedural differences require attention.
Read articleDesigns for Sets of Articles: A Protection Strategy
Businesses increasingly sell coordinated sets of products rather than individual items alone.
Read articleMissed Trademark Renewal Deadlines: Risks and Available Responses
Trademark registration is not permanent without renewal. Missing a renewal deadline can put brand protection at risk.
Read articleColumn: Google’s AI Patent for Personalized Landing Pages
AI Times, a Korean AI publication, has published Managing Partner Yongduck Kim's column on AI patents.
Read articleResponding to a Patent Warning Letter: Considering Invalidation Proceedings
A competitor's patent may complicate a product launch, or a business may receive an unexpected infringement warning. Understanding the available responses is essential.
Read articlePhilippine Trademark Filing: Documents, Timing and Actual-Use Declarations
The Philippines is a growing Southeast Asian market with an increasing Korean business presence. Companies planning to offer goods or services there should consider local trademark protection.
Read articleDesign Rights Transfers: Procedure and Essential Checks
As product appearance becomes an increasingly important source of competitive advantage alongside function, design rights play a growing role in business strategy.
Read articleTrademark Transfers: Procedure and Essential Checks
A brand is not just a name or logo; it is an important asset that builds consumer trust and a company's market competitiveness.
Read articleThe Hague System for International Design Protection
Product design contributes to competitiveness and brand value. A Korean registration may not provide sufficient protection against similar products abroad, where protection systems and examination standards differ...
Read articleUK Trademark Guide: Filing, Registration and Opposition
Trademark protection is a fundamental part of IP planning for businesses entering overseas markets.
Read articleThree Key Considerations for Patent Applications in China
Patent filing in China has similarities to Korean practice but important practical differences. Early decisions include the type of protection to seek, consistency in applicant names and claim drafting for computer-implemented inventions.
Read articlePartial Designs: Protecting a Product’s Distinctive Features
A distinctive part of a product can attract consumers' attention and make a brand recognizable more strongly than the product's overall appearance.
Read articleRecurring Trademark Disputes: Five Risks Businesses Often Miss
Trademark disputes affect startups, small businesses and independent brands as well as major companies. Even a single dispute can have serious commercial consequences.
Read articlePatent Transfers: Procedure and Essential Checks
Because patents are closely tied to a company's technological advantage, transfers of patent rights often arise during its operations.
Read articleYongduck Kim Analyzes the Technical and Legal Implications of Meta’s AI Avatar Patent
IPLEX patent attorney Yongduck Kim analyzes Meta's patent relating to user AI avatars.
Read articleA Guide to European Trademark Applications
A trademark conveys a business's identity, reputation and brand value. Securing protection is an important consideration in an increasingly competitive global market.
Read articlePCT International Applications: Procedure, Benefits and Strategy
Technology can be a major asset for businesses entering international markets. Without appropriate protection, it may be exposed to imitation or disputes abroad.
Read articleOverseas Trademark Filing as a Market-Entry Strategy
International IP planning includes trademarks as well as patents. A company's name and brand are often among the first assets to protect, and businesses preparing to expand abroad increasingly seek advice on trademark filing.
Read articleWhy One Patent May Not Be Enough: Patent Portfolio Strategy
Developing new technology often prompts a patent application. But does a single patent provide the protection the business needs?
Read articleYongduck Kim Completes KIPA Training on Employee Invention Systems
IPLEX patent attorney Yongduck Kim completed the Korea Invention Promotion Association's specialist training on employee invention systems.
Read articleColumn: Physical AI Patents — Decision-Making Technology in OSARO Logistics Robots
AI Times, a Korean AI publication, has published Managing Partner Yongduck Kim's column on AI patents.
Read articleRussian Trademark Applications: Questions and Answers
Russia is a key member of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and a strategic trading hub connecting Europe and Asia. In recent years, Russian consumers have increased their brand awareness and loyalty in various industries such as energy, chemical, food, fashion and IT.
Read articleVietnam Patent Guide: Procedure, Costs and the PPH
Vietnam's expanding manufacturing and IT sectors are attracting patent applications from overseas companies and research institutions. Growing interest from Korea, Japan, the US and Europe reflects its increasing role in global supply chains.
Read articlePartial Trademark Refusals and Divisional Applications
Korea introduced partial refusal of trademark applications on February 4, 2023.
Read articleWhy Good Technology May Not Be Patentable: Three Pre-Filing Questions
Many businesses file patent applications for new technology, but grant rates may be lower than they expect. Technical merit alone does not establish patentability.
Read articleEU Design Applications: The System and Practical Considerations
A product's appearance often creates the first impression in a new market. Because design influences brand identity and purchasing decisions, businesses need to consider how to protect it.
Read articleColumn: SAP’s Patent for Distinguishing Human and AI Conversations
AI Times, a Korean AI publication, has published Managing Partner Yongduck Kim's column on AI patents.
Read article
VJP visit: European patent practice
Thorsten Volkmann, Christian Isaila and Youngjin Shin visited IPLEX to discuss European patent procedures and international IP practice.
Read articleA Guide to Hong Kong Trademark Applications
Trademark protection is an early consideration in international expansion. As a financial and trading hub connecting mainland China with global markets, Hong Kong has particular strategic importance for many businesses.
Read articleEuropean Patent Applications: Procedure and Practical Questions
A European patent application offers a centralized route to seek protection in several countries. It is an important option for businesses and individual inventors seeking to protect their R&D across Europe.
Read articleRecurring Design Disputes: Infringement Criteria Illustrated by Cases
Design disputes affect businesses of all sizes, not only large companies and well-known brands.
Read articleAdding Goods to a Trademark: Supplementary Registration Applications
Businesses often add products after registering a trademark. Does protection for those new goods require a further application?
Read articleFrom Patent Application to Registration: The Procedure
Filing alone does not establish a patent right. The process involves application, examination and registration.
Read articleJapanese Design Applications: Scope of Protection and Drawings
Japan has a well-developed design protection system. Korean businesses and designers should consider the requirements for filing with the Japan Patent Office (JPO).
Read articleJapanese Trademark Applications: Names, Addresses, Goods and Distinctiveness
Businesses entering Japan should consider trademark protection early. Although the system resembles Korean practice, procedures and examination standards differ in important respects.
Read articleWhy Register a Product Design?
Businesses may focus on product functionality and production while overlooking protection for one of their most visible assets: design.
Read articleOpening a Route to Market through Non-Use Trademark Cancellation
What if an unused trademark registration prevents you from registering your own mark?
Read articleDo Solo Founders Need Patents? Practical Considerations
Solo founders and small-business owners often ask whether patent protection is necessary.
Read articleUS Design Patent Applications: Questions and Answers
The United States is a major, highly competitive consumer market where new products can quickly attract imitations. In sectors such as fashion, appliances, furnishings, household goods and IT accessories, securing design protection early can be commercially important.
Read articleColumn: AI Patent Strategy — Turning Technology into Rights
Today Newspaper has published IPLEX patent attorney Yongduck Kim's column on AI patents.
Read articleA Guide to US Trademark Applications
The US is a major consumer market with intense competition between brands. Korean businesses entering the market should plan their trademark protection early.
Read articleUS Patent Applications: Practical Filing Tips
Businesses often consider US patent protection after filing in Korea. US law follows a first-inventor-to-file system, making filing dates and disclosure history important when planning an application.
Read articleRelated Designs: Extending Protection around a Principal Design
Product designs can be copied quickly. Subtle differences in shape and pattern also make legal assessments of similarity challenging.
Read articleColumn: Generative AI Patents and Research Innovation with EXAONE Discovery
AI Times, a Korean AI publication, has published Managing Partner Yongduck Kim's column on AI patents.
Read articleYongduck Kim Joins the Gyeonggi Technopark Expert Roster
Yongduck Kim has joined Gyeonggi Technopark's expert roster for management and business support. He will advise SMEs and founders on IP through the Gyeonggi Intellectual Property Center.
Read articleAccelerated Trademark Examination: A Faster Route to Registration
More businesses are recognizing the importance of trademarks and incorporating them into their commercial planning.
Read articleConsidering Utility Models When Patent Protection Feels Burdensome
An inventive idea may prompt the question, "Could this be patented?" Complex documentation, examination time and cost can nevertheless make the process seem daunting.
Read articleSecret Designs as a Pre-Launch Protection Strategy
Design protection is particularly sensitive to trends and timing. Designs can be copied quickly, with multiple similar products appearing during a short commercial season.
Read articleTrademark Distinctiveness Refusals under Article 33(1)
Have you received a notice of reasons for refusal after applying to register your trademark?
Read articleAfter an Unsuccessful Patent Appeal: Separate Applications
Changes to Korea's Patent Act seek to protect applicants' rights and improve opportunities to obtain patents. The separate application procedure introduced in 2022 is one such measure. How does it differ from a divisional application?
Read articleFaster Product Design Protection through Partial Examination
As functional differences between products narrow, design becomes more important. Delays in registration can make it difficult to align protection with a product launch.
Read articleColumn: Detecting Audio Transitions — Patents and the Future of Streaming AI
AI Times, a Korean AI publication, has published Managing Partner Yongduck Kim's column on AI patents.
Read articleUnderstanding Trademark Opposition
As a brand enters the market, a similar trademark application by another business can create a conflict.
Read article
Hengbo IP visit: Chinese trademark practice
Shawn Fan, founder of Hengbo IP Law Firm, visited IPLEX and shared insights into the Chinese trademark system and recent practice.
Read articleWhen Will a Filed Patent Be Granted? Accelerated Examination
Patent examination and registration commonly take one to two years. In rapidly developing fields, delays can give competitors an advantage or cause businesses to miss commercial opportunities.
Read articlePatent Practice: Examination Requests and Filing Strategy
Have you wondered why a patent application has not progressed after filing?
Read articleUnderstanding Exclusive Design Licenses
Design rights protect a product's appearance. A rights holder may use the design itself or authorize another business to use it through a license.
Read articleUnderstanding Exclusive Trademark Licenses
A brand represents a company's reputation and identity. Trademark licensing can help businesses expand or structure commercial collaborations.
Read articleColumn: Microsoft’s Multimodal Response Patent and the Future of Conversational AI Assistants
AI Times, a Korean AI publication, has published Managing Partner Yongduck Kim's column on AI patents.
Read articleExclusive Patent Licenses: A Practical Guide
Commercializing technology may require exclusive use of a patented invention in a market, rather than permission to use it alongside others. An exclusive patent license is an important option in that situation.
Read articleMalaysia Trademark Refusal: Distinctiveness Issues in the OCEANHERB Cosmetics Case
A Malaysian trademark application may encounter a refusal during examination. For cosmetics, health foods and beauty products, wording that describes natural ingredients can raise distinctiveness issues.
Read articleColumn: Sony’s “AI Gamer Podcast” Patent and the Future of Gaming Platforms
AI Times, a Korean AI publication, has published Managing Partner Yongduck Kim's column on AI patents.
Read articleDoes an Idea Alone Receive Protection? Five Common IP Misconceptions
IP consultations often reveal uncertainty among business owners about their rights, sometimes compounded by inaccurate information online.
Read articleTransferring Patent, Trademark and Design Rights during Corporate Liquidation
When a company dissolves and enters liquidation, its patents, trademarks and designs are assets that must be addressed. Transfers by a company in liquidation, acting as assignor, involve additional requirements and practical considerations.
Read articleNon-Exclusive Design Licenses: A Practical Guide
As product competitiveness moves beyond technology to aesthetic value, design has now become a key business asset that influences the product's first impression, consumer choice, and brand image.
Read articleNon-Exclusive Trademark Licenses: A Practical Guide
A growing business may license its brand to others or seek permission to use another company's brand. Trademark licensing provides the framework for these arrangements.
Read article
Beijing SUNHOPE visit: Korea–China IP cooperation
Patent attorneys from Beijing SUNHOPE Intellectual Property Ltd. in China visited the IPLEX office in Seoul.
Read articleA Guide to Non-Exclusive Patent Licenses
How a patent is used matters as much as obtaining it. A non-exclusive license may be relevant when a rights holder cannot manufacture a product itself or a business wishes to use another party's technology lawfully.
Read article
Visit by the founder of KHURANA & KHURANA
Tarun Khurana, founder of KHURANA & KHURANA, visited IPLEX.
Read articlePatents, Trademarks, Designs and Copyright: Key Differences
Patents, trademarks, designs and copyright are all forms of intellectual property, but they protect different subject matter. Understanding those differences is essential when deciding how to protect a business's assets.
Read articleMadrid Trademark Applications, Export Vouchers and IPLEX
Businesses entering international markets need to plan brand protection. Delays in securing trademark rights can expose even competitive products and services to counterfeiting, imitation and unauthorized use, particularly as online sales and cross-border distribution expand.
Read articleOverseas Patent Registration through Export Voucher Support
The aim is to develop a practical international patent strategy that reflects the company's commercial direction and target markets, alongside handling the applications.
Read articleThe Hague System: Seeking Design Protection across Borders
A strong product alone does not ensure success abroad. International expansion requires attention to two key forms of preparation.
Read articleExport Voucher IP Services: Questions and Answers
IPLEX is an intellectual property law firm.
Read articleJapan: Reductions in Patent Examination and Annuity Fees
Clients discussing patent costs often ask the same questions.
Read articleA Guide to Canadian Trademark Applications
Businesses filing in Canada may assume its trademark rules match US practice. An important distinction is that Canada does not require proof of use at the application stage in the same way as the US system.
Read articleApplying for IPLEX Services through the Export Voucher Program
To use IP services through the export voucher program, first discuss the scope of the proposed work and estimated costs with our team.
Read articleGenetic Algorithms and AI Patent Strategy: Lessons from Industrial Applications
Genetic algorithms are established methods in AI and optimization. Inspired by evolution, they generate a population of candidate solutions and progressively improve it through selection, crossover and mutation.
Read articleColumn: A USPTO Director’s First Signature — Design and Disclosure in AI and Blockchain Patents
AI Times has published Yongduck Kim's column on the message conveyed by a US Patent Office director's first official patent signature, examining how the design and description of AI technology affect patent protection.
Read articleColumn Published: Agentic AI Patent Analysis
Yongduck Kim's AI Times column examines Regie.ai's patents and the next stage of competition in enterprise AI. It focuses on the inventions defined in the patent documents, rather than the technology's marketing label alone.
Read articleYongduck Kim Mentors and Evaluates Teams in Korea University’s 2025 International STEM Student Startup Program
IPLEX patent attorney Yongduck Kim served as a mentor and demo-day evaluator in Korea University's 2025 international student entrepreneurship program.
Read articleAI Times Publishes Yongduck Kim’s Column on Swarm AI Technology
AI Times has published Yongduck Kim's column on core technologies in swarm AI and the implications of Palladyne AI's US patent.
Read articlePatent Court Finds Earphone-Case Design Based on Travel Luggage Lacks Creativity
The Patent Court held that registered earphone-case designs incorporating design elements of travel luggage were invalid for lack of creativity (2024 Heo 14780 and 2024 Heo 14803). The decisions discuss similarity, ease of creation and standards in fields where designs are commonly adapted between products…
Read articleExplaining the LG Electronics WashTower Trademark Decision
Combining a washing machine and dryer in a single tower can help households use space more efficiently. LG Electronics’ WashTower illustrates this approach and raises questions about trademark protection for the product name.
Read article
Chofn IP Firm visit: Chinese IP practice
Representatives of Chofn IP Firm visited IPLEX and exchanged views on the Chinese intellectual property system and practice.
Read article
CREO Law & IP visit: Japanese patent practice
Representatives of CREO Law & IP LPC visited IPLEX to share experience of the Japanese patent system.
Read articleLeaders Magazine Interviews Author Yongduck Kim
As AI reshapes industries, patents are becoming strategic business assets as well as a means of protecting technology.
Read articleColumn: US AI Patent Eligibility and International Challenges
AI Times has published Yongduck Kim's article on US patent eligibility for AI inventions and international challenges.
Read article
Visit by Mei Tsang of Umberg Zipser
Mei Tsang, a partner at Umberg Zipser LLP, visited IPLEX to exchange views on global IP trends and potential cooperation.
Read articleNew Book: Resolving Coupang Patent, Trademark and Design Disputes
Yongduck Kim’s new book, The Coupang Patent, Trademark and Design Dispute Handbook, has been published.
Read articlePatent Analysis Column Published in AI Times
AI Times has published Yongduck Kim's analysis of patent technology addressing limitations in collaborative medical-video review.
Read articleDeepSeek Patent Analysis Column Published in AI Times
AI Times has published Yongduck Kim's analysis of DeepSeek's approach to improving LLM training efficiency.
Read articleAI Patent Analysis Column Published in Electronic Times
Electronic Times has published Yongduck Kim's analysis of Balancehero's patents and the role of AI patent protection in international fintech expansion.
Read articleAI Times Column: Part 16
AI Times has published Yongduck Kim's patent analysis of OpenAI's graphical user interface interaction and automation technology.
Read articleAI Times Column: Part 15
AI Times has published Yongduck Kim's patent analysis of OpenAI's technology for handling long-running operations.
Read articleAI Times Column: Part 14
AI Times has published Yongduck Kim's patent analysis of OpenAI's technology for performing automated tasks using video.
Read articleAI Times Column: Part 13
AI Times has published Yongduck Kim's patent analysis of OpenAI's adaptive user interface and response-generation technology.
Read articleAI Times Column: Part 12
AI Times has published Yongduck Kim's patent analysis of OpenAI's multimodal interaction interface.
Read articleNew Book: OpenAI’s Patent Strategy and the Global AI Patent Race
OpenAI’s Patent Strategy and the Global AI Patent Race, a new book by Yongduck Kim, has been published.
Read articleAI Times Column: Part 11
AI Times has published Yongduck Kim's analysis of OpenAI's patent on invoking external APIs through natural-language instructions.
Read articleOpenAI Patent Analysis by an AI Patent Attorney Published in AI Times
AI Times published the tenth installment of Yongduck Kim’s OpenAI patent analysis series, on redrawing images using text instructions.
Read articleOpenAI Patent Analysis Column by an AI Patent Attorney
AI Times has published the ninth article in Yongduck Kim's OpenAI patent analysis series, examining technology for explaining code in natural language.
Read articleYongduck Kim Completes Expert Training on Employee Inventions
IPLEX patent attorney Yongduck Kim completed specialist training with the Korea Invention Promotion Association.
Read articleOpenAI Patent Analysis 8: AI That Reads and Explains Code
AI Times has published the eighth article in Yongduck Kim's patent analysis series.
Read articleAppointment as an Innovative Finance Expert at Fintech Center Korea
Patent attorney Yongduck Kim has been appointed as an innovative finance expert by Fintech Center Korea.
Read articleOpenAI Patent Analysis 7: Operating User Interfaces in a Human-Like Way
AI Times has published the seventh article in Yongduck Kim's patent analysis series.
Read articleOpenAI Patent Analysis 6: The Whisper Speech-Recognition Model
AI Times has published the sixth article in Yongduck Kim's patent analysis series.
Read articleOpenAI Patent Analysis 5: Patents Related to DALL·E
AI Times has published the fifth article in Yongduck Kim's patent analysis series.
Read articleOpenAI Patent Analysis by an AI Patent Attorney: Part 4
AI Times has published the fourth article in Yongduck Kim's patent analysis series.
Read articleOpenAI Patent Analysis by an AI Patent Attorney: Part 3
AI Times has published the third article in Yongduck Kim's patent analysis series.
Read articleOpenAI Patent Analysis by an AI Patent Attorney: Part 2
AI Times has published the second article in Yongduck Kim's patent analysis series.
Read articleOpenAI Patent Analysis by an AI Patent Attorney: Part 1
AI Times has published the first article in IPLEX patent attorney Yongduck Kim's OpenAI patent analysis series.
Read articleNew Book: A Comprehensive Guide to IP Rights Transfers
IPLEX announces the publication of The IP Transfer Handbook by Yongduck Kim.
Read articleUnderstanding Intellectual Property: Copyright, Patents, Designs and Trademarks
Intellectual property rights protect the work of creators and inventors and encourage further innovation. Understanding those rights helps individuals and businesses protect the value of their creations.
Read articleCopyright Registration: The Application Procedure
Copyright arises when a qualifying work is created. Registration can help establish evidence of rights and support secure transactions. Although registration is not required for copyright to arise, it can provide a clearer basis for asserting those rights in a dispute.
Read articleDocumenting Employee-Created Works: Protecting Corporate Copyright
Documentation confirming a work's creation in the course of employment can be important to its legal protection and commercial use.
Read articleCharacter Copyright Registration: Legal Protection and Commercial Use
Characters can be central to a brand’s identity, storytelling and fan community. Across games, animation, film and publishing, they are valuable commercial assets.
Read articleWhy Register Copyright in Korea?
Copyright arises automatically when a qualifying work is created. Korean law does not require registration for protection to arise, but registration can help rights holders protect their works and assert their rights.
Read articleUS Copyright Registration for Literary Works
This article explains the information needed to apply to register a literary work with the US Copyright Office.
Read articleDesign Rights Transfers from A to Z
A transfer of a registered design right must be recorded to take effect. This guide explains the procedure, required documents and costs.
Read articleTrademark Transfers from A to Z
A transfer of a registered trademark right must be recorded to take effect. This guide covers the procedure, required documents and costs.
Read articleUnderstanding US Copyright Infringement Requirements
This article considers how the relevant requirements are established in litigation and disputes, and how evidence should be collected and presented. It introduces provisions including 17 U.S.C. §§102, 106 and 501 and relevant cases to explain practical approaches to copyright protection…
Read articlePatent Transfers from A to Z
A patent assignment must be recorded to complete the transfer of the right. This guide explains the procedure, required documents and costs.
Read articleHow Long Does US Copyright Registration Take?
The U.S. Copyright Office publishes a variety of guidelines and statistics to ensure that copyright registration goes smoothly. This article is based on the Registration Processing Times data published by the U.S. Copyright Office.
Read articleUS Copyright Registration Strategies for Different Types of Works
Audiovisual Works and Motion Pictures
Read articleWhy US Copyright Registration Matters
Copyright protects creative work and supports compensation for its use. What role does registration play?
Read articleNota Receives Strong Technology Evaluation Results for Special Listing
IPLEX supported Nota's technology-based listing preparations. Nota received 'A, A' technology-evaluation grades, reported as a first in the AI model-compression field.
Read articleCase Result: Petition for Non-Use Trademark Cancellation Granted
IPLEX obtained a decision granting its client's petition for non-use trademark cancellation.
Read articleNew Book: Strategies for Securing AI Patents — CommunicationBooks AI Series 021
Strategies for Securing AI Patents, a new book by Yongduck Kim, Managing Partner of IPLEX, is being published as Volume 021 in the CommunicationBooks Artificial Intelligence series.
Read articleColumn: IP Rights Transfers for AI Companies — Innovation and Commercialization
Patent attorney Yongduck Kim has contributed an article on IP rights transfers for AI companies.
Read articleOhmyNews Column: The Importance of IP Rights Transfers
OhmyNews has published an article by IPLEX patent attorney Yongduck Kim.
Read articleColumn: Unsupervised AI Learning and Patent Cases — Finding Hidden Data Patterns
AI Times published Yongduck Kim’s article on unsupervised learning technologies and patent examples, examining how AI identifies hidden patterns and structures in data.
Read articleUnsupervised AI Learning: Technology and Patent Case Analysis
Artificial intelligence (AI), one of the key areas of computer science that artificially implements human learning, reasoning, and perceptual ability, is driving innovative change in many areas.
Read articleApril Artboost Lecture at ARKO Korea Arts Lab Completed
Yongduck Kim delivered a lecture as part of ARKO Korea Arts Lab's April Artboost program.
Read articleApril Artboost Lecture at ARKO Korea Arts Lab: Announcement
IPLEX patent attorney Yongduck Kim will speak at ARKO Korea Arts Lab's April 2024 Artboost program.
Read articleIPLEX Update: Yongduck Kim Registers with Gyeonggi Technopark’s Expert Pool
Gyeonggi Technopark has added Yongduck Kim to its expert roster for management and business support. Through the Gyeonggi Intellectual Property Center, he will provide IP advice to SMEs and founders.
Read articleYongduck Kim Joins the Gangbuk Youth Startup Maru Lecturer and Mentor Pool
IPLEX Managing Partner Yongduck Kim has joined the lecturer and mentor pool for intellectual property, patents and technology.
Read articleYongduck Kim Joins the Seoul Business Agency Expert Pool
IPLEX patent attorney Yongduck Kim has joined the Seoul Business Agency's expert pool.
Read articleIPLEX Joins the Korea Artificial Intelligence Association
The Korea Artificial Intelligence Association is a nonprofit organization that supports the AI ecosystem by connecting businesses, talent and information.
Read articleIPLEX Registers as a Bio Agora Partner Organization
Bio Agora is an online communication platform where researchers and entrepreneurs in the health industry, mid-sized companies, investment institutions, and commercialization organizations can come together to exchange technology and product information and cooperate on a regular basis.
Read articleIPLEX Begins a Partnership Service with Equity-Management Platform QuotaBook
IPLEX has partnered with QuotaBook, a Korean equity-management platform.
Read articleColumn: The Relationship between IP and PPS Excellent Product Designation
OhmyNews has published Yongduck Kim's article on intellectual property and the PPS Excellent Product designation.
Read articleNew Book: Strategies for PPS Excellent Product Designation
IPLEX announces the publication of Strategies for Excellent Product Designation in Public Procurement by patent attorney Yongduck Kim.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case Analysis: iSeum
The applied-for mark consists of “iSeum.” The cited mark combines a graphic element with Korean and English wording, including “SEUM MEDIA CO. LTD.” The marks differ significantly in their graphic elements, scripts and number of letters.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: A Review of a Court Decision
Class 32: apple juice, carbonated water, orange juice, bottled water for non-medical purposes, beer and stout, among other goods.
Read articleAI Times Column: Transformer Patents and Potential Infringement in AI Services
AI Times has published an article by patent attorney Yongduck Kim. The image above links to the full text.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: Summary of a Court Decision
For the cited provision of Article 7(1) of the Trademark Act, similarity of goods is assessed according to ordinary trading perceptions. Relevant factors include quality, shape, purpose, production and sales channels, and the range of consumers.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: CARTE BLUE
The applied-for mark consists of “CARTE BLUE,” while the cited mark combines a graphic with “CARTEBLANCHE.” The graphic elements and different lettering distinguish their appearances.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: Cyber Frontier versus New Frontier
The applied-for mark is a coined expression written in seven Korean characters. The analysis considers how Korean consumers and traders would understand its English-derived wording and pronunciation.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: Case Summary
Both marks consist of a single dog figure. Each can be referred to as a dog and evokes that concept, supporting similarity in sound and meaning.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: LOTTE DE ART versus ART
“ART” can mean art, technique or skill, but it is not a customary description of the confectionery goods covered by the marks.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: GINGANET versus ZINKA
TV receivers, audio (for home use), video receivers, recording equipment (not for film use), cassette players, computer monitors, etc.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: Reviewing Judicial Reasoning
Baby powder, baby oil, cosmetic cream, hand cream, cosmetic brushes, skin milk, nourishing cream, cold cream, powder containers and powder puffs.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case Analysis: now
The applied-for trademark and service mark stylize the “O” in “NOW.” The graphic treatment does not prevent the wording from being recognized as “NOW.”
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: SOLO
The registered mark consists of “SOLO.” Cited mark 1 combines “SOLOTEC” with a flag-like graphic passing through the upper center of its fourth letter, “O.” The graphic and different number of letters distinguish the marks visually.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: The Rhinoceros Mark
Class 25: jackets, short coats, safari jackets, dress shirts, T-shirts, cotton trousers, socks, leather shoes and hats.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: The Kangaroo Mark
Class 18: leather key cases, wallets not made of precious metal, briefcases, travel bags and handbags.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: Anbeullin and evelyn
The applied-for mark combines Korean “Anbeullin” with cursive Latin lettering. The cited mark places mixed-case printed lettering below a ribbon graphic. Their appearances differ, and a conceptual comparison is not available because one is coined and the other combines a Western personal name with a graphic.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: Judicial Analysis
The registered mark combines the Korean name Cheokju Donghaebi with the Chinese characters “陟州東海碑”, arranged vertically. The cited mark combines a graphic with a smaller Korean rendering of that name. They differ markedly in their graphics, Chinese characters and the size of the Korean lettering, so their appearances…
Read articleService Mark Similarity: Case Review
The applied-for service mark joins the outer end of an “@” symbol to the beginning of a handwritten “i”, and combines that graphic with “NET”. Cited service mark 1 combines a graphic with “INET”, including a dot between “I” and “NET” and a stylized “N”…
Read articleTrademark 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.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: ELOCOM versus Elecom
A foreign-language mark is generally assessed by the pronunciation readily used by Korean traders and consumers. Where they actually recognize and pronounce the mark in a particular way, that usage must be considered.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: Ellis versus PERRY ELLIS
A composite mark need not always be pronounced or understood in its entirety. Where its elements are separable, an independently distinctive element may determine how the mark is referred to or understood; more than one such reading may be possible.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: A Case-Law Summary
Similarity requires an objective assessment of appearance, sound and meaning, considering the marks as a whole and as encountered separately in trade. The question is whether consumers may confuse their commercial origin; similarity in one aspect must be assessed in the overall context.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: WILLIAMS-SONOMA versus WILLIAMS
A composite word mark is generally assessed by the appearance, sound and meaning of the wording as a whole. An independently distinctive element may also be relevant where consumers can recognize it as indicating origin.
Read articleColumn: Technology-Based Listings for AI Companies and Technology Business Plans
AI Times has published Yongduck Kim's article on technology-based special listings and technology business plans for AI companies. Kim serves as a technical evaluation panel member for a specialist evaluation agency.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: Summary of Judicial Findings
A service mark distinguishes the source of services and helps prevent confusion. Because this function is ordinarily performed by the mark as a whole, the comparison considers its overall appearance, sound and meaning.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: Key Points from a Court Decision
Microprocessors: Class 9 (originally Class 39; reclassified on 7 June 2002).
Read articleTrademark Similarity: Onggijangi Hangari Kalguksu versus Hangari
The registered service mark consists of the Korean wording “Onggijangi Hangari Kalguksu,” while the earlier mark consists of “Hangari.” Viewed as complete expressions, they differ in appearance, sound and meaning. The analysis then considers the role of individual elements within that overall assessment.
Read articleKynix Technology Wins an Award at the 2023 Korea Invention Patent Exhibition
The 2023 Korea Invention Patent Exhibition promotes the development and commercialization of inventions through exhibitions and awards recognizing innovative technologies and products.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: BOSS AUDIO SYSTEMS
The applied-for mark has upper and lower elements. “AUDIO SYSTEMS,” in the lower portion, is a term commonly used for the designated goods, which affects the assessment of that element's distinctiveness.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: dodo cosmetics
Trademark and service-mark similarity is assessed objectively through overall and separate observation of appearance, sound and meaning. The question is whether the marks may cause confusion about commercial origin; similarity in one aspect is considered within that overall assessment.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: Noblesse Furniture
The registered mark combines Korean wording transliterating “NOBLESSE,” meaning nobility, with the Korean word for furniture. Red dots separate the characters and a graphic sits above them. Its appearance differs from the earlier registered marks.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: Sinjeonggol Traditional Bone Soup
Service-mark similarity depends on an objective comparison of appearance, sound and meaning, considering each mark as a whole and as encountered separately. The assessment asks whether ordinary consumers may confuse the source of the designated services.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: BRAVA
Unless its elements form a naturally inseparable whole, a composite mark may be referred to or understood by a distinctive part. A single mark may therefore have more than one recognizable pronunciation or meaning.
Read articleIP Lecture for the Second NH Seed Cohort
Yongduck Kim delivered a lecture on patents and intellectual property for the second NH Seed cohort.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: Judicial Findings in Context
Compare the marks' appearance, sound and meaning in light of how ordinary consumers and traders perceive them. The central question is whether their use may cause confusion about the source of the goods.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: A Case-Law Review
Trademark similarity is assessed through appearance, sound and meaning, with attention to consumers' overall impression and the likelihood of confusion about commercial origin.
Read articleTechnology-Based Special Listing Training Completed
On Wednesday the 18th, IPLEX patent attorney Yongduck Kim delivered an in-person seminar on technology-based special listings.
Read article2023 Design Start-Up Package: Individual Mentoring Completed
Yongduck Kim completed one-to-one mentoring sessions for the Design Start-Up Package program organized by the Seoul Design Startup Center.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: SANY
For marks used on the same goods, compare appearance, sound and meaning and assess whether the overall impression may lead consumers or traders to confuse the source.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: Labrador Retriever versus DAWN FIELD
The assessment considers appearance, sound and meaning in the context of the designated goods, focusing on the risk of confusion about their commercial origin.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: TIMEWISE, Wise Brown and WISER
Similarity requires an objective assessment of the marks as a whole and as encountered separately. Appearance, sound and meaning inform whether the overall impressions distinguish their commercial origins.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: SNOW PERFUME
A trademark identifies commercial origin and helps prevent confusion. The comparison therefore ordinarily considers the mark as a whole, including its appearance, sound and meaning.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: Whotel
Service-mark similarity turns on appearance, sound and meaning and the overall impression on ordinary consumers and traders. The issue is whether they may confuse the source of the services.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: NICOLE MILLER
Assess the marks objectively, as a whole and through separate observation of appearance, sound and meaning. The relevant question is whether their use for the designated goods may cause confusion about commercial origin.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: CRYSIS
For marks used on the same goods, appearance, sound and meaning are considered together to assess whether consumers or traders may confuse their source.
Read articleIP Lecture for NH Seed’s Second Cohort: Announcement
Yongduck Kim has been invited to deliver IP training for NH Seed's second cohort. The lecture will explain the importance of protecting technology and the patent registration process for current and prospective entrepreneurs addressing challenges in agriculture through agtech.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: Ritz Plaza Hotel
The similarity assessment considers appearance, sound and meaning against the overall impression the marks make on ordinary consumers and traders.
Read articleColumn: Preparing a Technology Business Plan for Special Listing
As an external technology-evaluation advisor for KOSDAQ listings, Yongduck Kim has seen businesses struggle to prepare technology business plans. This article examines how to approach that work.
Read articleTechnology-Based Special Listing: How Many Patents Are Needed?
As interest in Korea's technology-based listing route grows, clients often ask how many patents they need. In consulting work, I explain that a larger portfolio is not always more advantageous—a point some find surprising coming from a patent attorney.
Read articleDesign Start-Up Package: Individual Mentoring Announcement
DSP 1:1 Mentoring, organized by Seoul Design Startup Center, provides expert mentoring for pre- and early-stage entrepreneurs. On August 11 (Fri), patent attorney Yongduck Kim will participate as a mentor.
Read articleYongduck Kim Delivers IP Training for New Content Enterprise Support Center Companies
Metaverse, AI and VR technologies are bringing established IP categories into closer contact. Infringement issues and disputes in markets such as the United States and China underscore the importance of an IP strategy for Korea's convergent content industries.
Read articleDetecting Aircraft Engine Anomalies with Autoencoders: Honeywell Patent Analysis
An autoencoder is a neural network trained through unsupervised learning to encode data and reconstruct an output as close as possible to the input.
Read articleSmart Factories and Robot Prognostics: ABB Patent Analysis
Smart factories are a prominent application of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies. Predictive maintenance helps optimize maintenance policies, reduce costs and improve equipment availability and reliability. Prognostics is one of the approaches attracting attention in this field.
Read articleAmazon Account Reinstatement Case: Underdog
Our client Underdog faced suspension of its Amazon seller account following a patent infringement allegation. IPLEX prepared an FTO report, appeal letter and plan of action supporting non-infringement, and the account was reinstated.
Read articleResearch Paper Analysis: StarGAN
StarGAN (Unified Generative Adversarial Networks for Multi-Domain Image-to-Image Translation)
Read articleResearch Paper Analysis: ResNet — Deep Residual Learning for Image Recognition
This article examines the paper “Deep Residual Learning for Image Recognition.”
Read articleImproving Deep Learning Performance: Mixup Training and Label Smoothing
This article explains two techniques used in deep learning: mixup training and label smoothing.
Read articleFacebook AI Paper Analysis: DETR and End-to-End Object Detection with Transformers
ECCV (European Conference on Computer Vision) 2020: An analysis of end-to-end object detection with transformers.
Read articleEquipment Anomaly Detection: MakinaRocks Patents on Autoencoders and Transfer Learning
Autoencoders are widely used to detect faults in manufacturing equipment. This article examines a MakinaRocks patent concerning autoencoder training.
Read articlePost-Processing AI Prostate-Cancer Assessments: JLK Inspection Patent Analysis
Prostate cancer has sometimes been called “the emperor's cancer” because prominent figures such as John Kerry have been diagnosed with it, and “father's cancer” because it commonly affects men over 50.
Read articlePreventing Overfitting in Medical Imaging AI: VUNO Patent Analysis
Pattern-recognition research explores how to apply efficient human recognition processes to computers, including the classification of input patterns into defined groups.
Read articlePreparing Chatbot Training Data: Natural Language Processing Patent Analysis
Shortages of customer-service staff and infrastructure can make it difficult for businesses to meet customer expectations. Chatbots are being introduced to supplement these resources and improve service quality.
Read articleUnderstanding the Limitations of GAN Models
An earlier article introduced generative adversarial networks (GANs) in the context of deepfakes. Their operating principles suggest a broad range of generative applications, but GANs also face technical challenges. This article examines those limitations.
Read articleAI for Dementia Analysis: JLK Inspection Patent Analysis
Occasional forgetfulness becomes more common with age and may cause concern about dementia. Memory decline alone, however, is not enough to establish that diagnosis.
Read articleUnderstanding GAN Algorithms Used in Deepfakes
Deepfake refers to the use of AI technology to synthesize the face of a particular person in a particular video. In April 2018, a video of former US President Barack Obama criticizing President Donald Trump became known to the world.
Read articleSUALAB Patent Analysis: Anomaly Detection
SUALAB provides deep-learning inspection solutions for machine vision. It began with defect detection in textile printing, introducing machine vision to a process that lacked automated inspection in what the article describes as a world first.
Read articleImproving Medical Image Analysis with CNNs: Lunit Patent Analysis, Part 2
Following an earlier analysis of Lunit's medical-imaging patents, this article examines another CNN-based approach: analyzing cell images to identify the number and location of mitotic cells.
Read articleImproving Medical Image Analysis with CNNs: Lunit Patent Analysis, Part 1
AI-based medical-image analysis and disease diagnosis are developing rapidly. Startups including VUNO, Lunit and JLK Inspection are researching these technologies and ways to improve analytical accuracy. This article examines AI-based medical imaging.
Read articleAI for Accident Prevention: Anomaly Detection and Autoencoder Patents
As you can see in the article below, AI can also be used for predicting equipment failure.
Read articleAI Preprocessing Technology: JLK Inspection Patent Analysis
Removing noise from training data matters: models trained on noisy data can be less accurate.
Read articleIPLEX Signs an MOU with 2hrs Academy
IPLEX signed a memorandum of understanding with 2hrs Academy on the 18th.
Read articleAI Technology: Understanding Supervised Learning
This article explains supervised learning, one of the most widely used approaches to machine learning.
Read articleLunit Patents for AI-Based Medical Image Analysis
The film Last Holiday is a comedy about an American woman who takes a final trip to Europe after a hospital mistakenly diagnoses her with a terminal illness.
Read articleColumn: Yongduck Kim on Securing AI Patents
AI Times has published a column by IPLEX patent attorney Yongduck Kim. His experience includes IP work for companies in Korea and overseas, including LG Electronics, Samsung Electronics, Baidu, SUALAB and MakinaRocks, in fields such as AI, smart factories and blockchain.
Read articlePredicting Industrial Equipment’s Remaining Useful Life with AI
AI is increasingly used for predictive maintenance (PdM) of industrial equipment. In settings such as semiconductor plants, the approach anticipates equipment anomalies so maintenance can be planned before failure.
Read articlePublication Announcement: Design Protection Law — Protect Your Designs
Yongduck Kim, Managing Partner of IPLEX, has published Design Protection Law: Protect Your Designs. The book explains why design protection matters, what the Design Protection Act protects, and how similarity is assessed through examination standards and court decisions.
Read articleArtificial Intelligence and Patents: Protecting AI Technology
As AI technology develops rapidly, patent activity in the field is also growing.
Read articleAI Times Column: Preparing for Special Listing under Revised Evaluation Criteria
Drawing on his experience as an external technology-evaluation advisor for KOSDAQ listings, Yongduck Kim examines how AI businesses can prepare for Korea's technology-based listing route. His analysis has been published in AI Times.
Read articleHow to Respond Effectively to a Patent Infringement Warning Letter
An SME representative recently sought advice after receiving a patent infringement warning by certified mail. This article explains practical considerations in preparing a response.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: THE MAGIC BULLET
The applied-for mark and the earlier registered mark differ visually in their wording, including “THE MAGIC” and “Steam,” and in their graphic elements.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: IBK
Comparison of the registered and earlier service marks for financial services, including development finance, international finance, investment, guarantees, lending and accounting.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: ORGASOL versus ORAG
The court compares appearance, sound and meaning and considers the marks' overall impression on consumers and traders. For use on the same goods, the central issue is the likelihood of confusion about source.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: birdie versus Blue Birdie
Similarity is assessed through the marks' appearance, sound and meaning, considering consumers' overall impression and potential confusion about source. The analysis also considers how the individual word and graphic elements contribute to that impression.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: bistro dº versus BISTRO
A composite service mark may be referred to or understood through an independently distinctive element where separating its components would not be unnatural in trade. More than one pronunciation or meaning may therefore arise.
Read articleCertification as an Intellectual Property Instructor
IPLEX patent attorney Yongduck Kim has been certified as an intellectual property instructor.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: A Summary of the Court’s Approach
The applied-for mark combines wording with simple green and blue geometric elements. The analysis considers whether those common shapes contribute distinctiveness to the mark.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: JS Jangsu Gudeul
A mark combining words or graphics need not always be pronounced as a whole. Where the elements are not naturally inseparable, a distinctive part may determine how consumers refer to the mark.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: UGLYDOLL
Compare the marks' appearance, sound and meaning as ordinary consumers and traders perceive them, then assess whether their overall impressions create a likelihood of confusion about the goods' origin.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: LUISE versus MS. LOUISE
The applied-for and earlier registered marks differ in appearance. The applied-for mark is a coined expression, so a meaningful conceptual comparison cannot be made.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: uniPOS versus POS
The applied-for trademark and service mark “uniPOS” combine “uni” and “POS” as a single expression. “POS,” short for “Point of Sale,” lacks distinctiveness in the relevant context. The combined mark was therefore found dissimilar to the earlier registered service mark “POS.”
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: M Plus
The applied-for mark combines a large “M” at the upper left, two intersecting curves in the center and “Plus” at the lower right. The words “Mobile card” appear above in very small lettering.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: A Figurative-Mark Case
The analysis considers appearance, sound and meaning objectively, as a whole and through separate observation. A shared dominant visual impression can be important, particularly when the marks are used on the same goods.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: Examining a Judicial Decision
The plaintiff argued that the registered mark resembled the dominant elements of earlier registrations 1 through 9. Those elements combine two opposing “e” shapes, open at the outer sides and without a central horizontal line. The registered mark instead depicts the eighth Greek letter, theta.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: Gyeongju Bread
The wording in both signs consists of the geographic name “Gyeongju” and the generic term “bread,” which lack distinctiveness on their own. The comparison therefore turns to the graphics, including the registered mark's stylized face-pattern roof tile and cloud-like features.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: PRO-PAD
Similarity depends on appearance, sound and meaning in the context of the designated goods, and whether consumers or traders may confuse their commercial origin.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: F1X versus F1 and Other Marks
The comparison considers appearance, sound and meaning objectively, as a whole and through separate observation. The issue is whether use for the designated goods may cause consumers or traders to confuse their source.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: AUTOMAGICALLY versus MAGIC AUTO
The applied-for mark consists of “AUTOMAGICALLY,” describing something that happens automatically with an apparently magical element and a better-than-expected result. The word combines the ideas expressed by “automatic” and “magical.”
Read articleTrademark Similarity: UNSTRESS versus STRESS-OUT and Another Mark
When marks are used on the same goods, compare their appearance, sound and meaning objectively, both overall and as encountered separately, to assess the likelihood of source confusion.
Read articleFigurative Trademark Similarity: Case-Law Summary
Former Article 7(1) of the Trademark Act listed marks ineligible for registration notwithstanding Article 6. The cited text reflects amendments dated December 10, 1993; August 22, 1997; February 3, 2001; and December 31, 2004.
Read articleFigurative Marks: Judicial Similarity Analysis
The court considers appearance, sound and meaning objectively and in the overall impression of each mark. Visual features may be particularly significant where they dominate that impression.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: Sooryehan Biyun versus Biyunjin
A composite mark need not always be understood or pronounced in full. Where its elements are not naturally inseparable, comparison may focus on a distinctive part.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: 700
Service-mark similarity is assessed objectively through overall and separate observation of appearance, sound and meaning, focusing on how consumers and traders perceive the source of the services.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: Key Judicial Findings
The wording “DOHC” is unrelated to the bag and wallet retail services at issue and dominates the mark, giving it strong distinctiveness. The small bird graphic makes a limited contribution to the overall impression.
Read articleIP Daily Column: The Nike Shoe NFT Case
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Read articleTrademark Similarity: A Pictorial-Mark Case
① Both marks consist of stylized anchor designs and do not readily evoke a name or concept other than an anchor. ② The court considered the written and visual evidence in Exhibits 10 through 93, including their subparts, together with the overall arguments.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: GRAZIA versus GRACIA
Where the components of a mark are not naturally inseparable, an independently distinctive element may determine how consumers pronounce or understand it.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: ELIN versus Eryn Brinie
Analysis of a dominant element or separate component supports the assessment of the mark as a whole. Even if one aspect of appearance, sound or meaning is similar, the marks may remain distinguishable where consumers' overall impressions clearly avoid confusion about origin.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: RABVAC versus LAVAC
Comparison of the earlier registered mark and the applied-for mark for veterinary medicines and vaccines, including products for dogs, cats and horses.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: SERA versus Ceragem
The registered service mark and the earlier mark consisting of “Ceragem” were found dissimilar in appearance and concept.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: PRAGRAN versus PROGRAF
The cited Trademark Act provision requires the applied-for mark to be identical or similar to another person's earlier registration and to cover identical or similar goods. Similarity is assessed objectively through the mark's overall appearance, sound and meaning.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: How Courts Assess Similar Appearance
Visual similarity concerns whether the words, graphics and symbols of the marks could be confused as indicators of origin. Assess their overall visual impressions as encountered separately, rather than relying solely on a side-by-side comparison.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: Seolhwang
The registered mark comprises five Chinese characters. The smaller “化粧品” element directly indicates or evokes the designated cosmetics and lacks distinctiveness. By contrast, “雪黃” is a coined expression unrelated to the designated goods and is distinctive.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: Enlux
The applied-for mark comprises three Korean syllables, “Enlux,” while the earlier mark comprises the five Latin letters “emnux.” Their different scripts distinguish their appearance. Both are coined expressions without a particular meaning, so a conceptual comparison cannot be made.
Read articleTrademark Similarity: Simvast versus SIMVASTA
Designated goods: adjuvants for cancer treatment, cell-regeneration preparations, anticancer drugs, biological preparations, tranquilizers, peripheral-nervous-system medicines, anti-inflammatory medicines, medical diagnostic preparations, circulatory-system medicines and tumor-treatment medicines (Class 5, Schedule 1 under Article 6(1) of the Enforcement Rules of the Trademark Act).
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: Foodgen
The assessment considers appearance, sound and meaning, the overall impression on ordinary consumers and traders, and the likelihood of confusion about commercial origin.
Read articleTrademark Complaint over “News Factory”: TBS and Kim Eo-jun
Broadcaster Kim Eo-jun, who presents “Kim Eo-jun's Humility Is Hard: News Factory,” faced a complaint alleging a violation of the Trademark Act.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: Lee Woo-il’s Cartoon
The court examines the words, graphics and symbols displayed in each mark to assess whether their overall visual impressions could cause confusion as indicators of origin.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: Ganji
The similarity assessment considers appearance, sound and meaning against the overall impression the marks make on ordinary consumers and traders.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: Indeli
A composite word mark is generally assessed through the appearance, sound and meaning of the wording as a whole. An independently distinctive component may also influence how the mark is perceived in trade.
Read articleIP Daily Column: The Hermès Birkin NFT Case
Yongduck Kim analyzes US trademark cases drawing on IP experience involving Korean and international companies, including LG Electronics, Samsung Electronics, Baidu and Xiaomi.
Read articleAppointment as a PPS Evaluator for AI and IoT
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Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: DEQUINONE
Under the cited Article 7(1) provision, the registered mark must be similar to the mark used for comparison. Similarity is assessed objectively through overall and separate observation of appearance, sound and meaning for goods of the same kind.
Read articleTrademark Similarity Case: NOVATEX
Trademark similarity is assessed through appearance, sound and meaning, considering the overall impression on consumers and traders and the risk of confusion about origin.
Read articleComparing Dominant Trademark Elements: CIRCLE SURROUND AUTOMOTIVE versus CIRCLE
For a mark combining symbols, words, graphics or colors, the general approach assesses the appearance, sound and meaning of the mark as a whole.
Read articleTechnology-Based Special Listing: A Consulting Case
Sands Lab, which received technology-based listing consulting from IPLEX, passed the Korea Exchange's preliminary listing review.
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