By Ann K. Ford, Eunice R. Chung, and Ashley E. Green
The Korean Intellectual Property Office (“KIPO”) has issued its first comprehensive amendment to the Korean Trademark Act in over two decades. The changes will take effect today, and are part of Korea’s efforts to reform its intellectual property system. From targeted changes with local reasoning (such as providing trademark applicants who live in rural areas of Korea with additional time to appeal) to broader changes with international implications (such as redefining the actual definition of a trademark itself in Korea), the amendments are expected to allow for greater flexibility while creating a more practicable intellectual property framework in Korea. Here’s a sample of the key amendments:
For further information on the amendments contact Ann Ford (Ann.ford@dlapiper.com), Eunice Chung (Eunice.Chung@dlapiper.com) or Ashley Green (Ashley.Green@dlapiper.com).