Which is the competent authority for utility model patent applications in Korea?

yes. It is possible to change the patent type from utility model to invention within 30 days of receiving the grant/rejection decision, and pay the corresponding fee.

A 12-month novelty grace period is available if the design is disclosed by the applicant or the applicant's agent.

no

yes. The type of patent can be changed from invention to utility model within 30 days of receiving the grant/rejection decision, and the corresponding fee should be paid.

20 years, and the protection can be extended to 25 years for pesticides or medicines.

• Grant fee: The applicant should pay the annual fee for the first to third year within 3 months after receiving the notification of granted decision
• Annuity: Begin to pay year by year from the 4th year, overdue payment can be made within the 6-month grace period after the due date, but a penalty shall be paid, and the amount of the penalty shall not exceed twice the granted fee.

• Grant fee: The applicant needs to pay the granted fee within 3 months after receiving the notification of the granted decision, and pay the annual fee for the first to third years at the same time.
• Annuity: The annual fee is paid year by year starting from the fourth year from the filing date, and the amount of the annual fee depends on the number of Claim. Annuitys can also be paid. If the annual fee is overdue, it can be paid within the 6-month grace period after the due date, but an 18% penalty must be paid at the same time.

Korean Industrial Property Office

English: Korea Intellectual Property Office, abbreviation: KIPO

Website: Korean Intellectual Property Office (kipo.go.kr)

Korean Utility Model Patent Search: Integrated Search < SEARCH - KIPRIS Patent Information searching service

Restoration of priority will not be accepted.

20 years