Where URLs are requested below, it is preferred that either URLs which are likely to remain stable over time (three years or more) are provided, or home (main) page URLs are provided with a short explanation of how to access the corresponding information.
In 2003, the number of trademark applications rose slightly from 107,876 to 108,917, an increase of 0.9 percent, while the number of registered trademarks climbed from 40,588 to 46,023, an increase of 13.4 percent.
Of domestic enterprises, Amore Pacific filed the largest number of applications (1267) and was granted the largest number of registrations (775). Of foreign companies, Unilever N.V. ranked first in applications with 92, while Kose KK ranked first in registrations with 102.
Gazette publication
Until April 1998, hard copies of the Trademark Gazettes were published two or three times a month, two or three months after the publication date, and were disseminated to the general public by mail for public inspection of applications.
From May 1998 to June 2001, the Trademark Gazettes were published on CD-ROM with a mixed-mode data format and a user-friendly interface using the EPO’s Mimosa software, and they were distributed inside and outside the country. The CD-ROM gazette was issued in PDF format with SGML data. It included a Korean language font for foreign users and supported English installation for users with an English operating system. The Korean language version of the Adobe Acrobat Reader had to be installed for making gazette inquiries.
Beginning July 2001, KIPO began posting daily PDF gazettes on its Web site. This on-line version has replaced the CD-ROM version though a master CD-ROM of each publication is archived. This enabled KIPO to expeditiously and inexpensively provide information to its customers while cutting down publication expenses and allowing users easy access to information via the Internet.
Data Conversion Center
In January 2001, we began operating a Data Conversion Center at our Daejeon headquarters and at the Seoul branch office, which receives 70 percent of all applications. The center digitizes paper-based applications for patents, utility models, trademarks and industrial designs, as well as intermediate documents such as amendments, written opinions, objections, registrations, trials and paper-based gazettes.
Since we redesigned the conversion process in 2003, the center has been able to automatically handle numerous processes such as receiving paper documents, conducting formality checks and converting data. With state-of-the-art technology such as Multi OCR, dual key-inputs and automated verification of electronic data, the center can now convert documents without delays and errors.
We have now outsourced these processes to the Korea Institute of Patent Information (KIPI), which is a specialized intellectual property rights (IPRs) information agency founded by KIPO in 1995. In 2003, the center digitized 469 kinds of paper-based documents and a total of 420,104 items, and it reduced the average digitization period from 4.2 days to 2.02 days.
KIPO’s Web site
On our Web site, applicants can find information on the following:
• announcements of undelivered notifications due to an applicant’s change of address
• advance notice of a patent’s expiry due to nonpayment of fees
• other notices such as changes in laws or fees.
Internet gazette search service
We have provided an Internet gazette search service at our Web site for our customers since July 2001. After the publication date, applicants can freely refer to PDF documents via the Internet at any time during the opposition request period. Even after the opposition request period, applicants can find information on the KIPI Web site . They are also notified about their interests through a push-mail service and SMS (Short Message System).
We also provide applicants with the full text of corrected applications on our Web site, enabling them to easily correct the specifications or drawings of their application.
Since launching KIPOnet, we have continually improved the system by developing subordinate systems. An electronic approval system and an electronic application-receipt system have streamlined our internal administrative processes and enhanced the transparency of our approval process.
We also communicate examination results to applicants via the Internet or mobile telecommunications, publish official gazettes on the Internet, and handle most registration and opposition procedures on-line. Since developing the On-line Trial System in 2002, we have computerized all IPR administrative procedures except for the parts that require human judgment.
On-line Trial System
We launched the On-line Trial System in July 2002. The system transfers trial dossiers through the E-Dossier Management System, which manages various time limits such as the deadline for filing a written correction or reply. The On-line Trial System also shortens the trial period by utilizing trial decisions and a database of cases. It enables electronic preparation and receipt of decisive trial documents and trial documents relevant to the parties. It also enables electronic distribution and on-line routing of relevant documents for the convenience of applicants. As a result, the On-line Trial System improves efficiency in trial administration
In April 2003, we developed a program for sharing information on trial decisions from the Patent Court and the Supreme Court. If the Intellectual Property Tribunal informs the Patent Court or the Supreme Court of the withdrawal of a trial request, the courts stop the particular trial.
Electronic Approval and Routing System
Our Electronic Approval and Routing System has enabled electronic approval for IPR administration and general administration. The system comprises two major parts: an approval system for IPR examinations, which was introduced with the KIPOnet system in 1999; and an approval system for general administration, which was launched in June 2000. In 2002, the ratio of electronic approval was 99.1 percent. The system has been used for the following:
· Electronic approval: preparation, approval, dispatch and receipt of electronic documents: management of document boxes; and the circulation of documents
· Electronic mail: preparation, transmission, receipt, and management of e-mail
· Electronic board: posting and reading notices on an electronic board
· Management of records: preservation of records.
Fee Deferment System
In May 2003, we developed a system that notifies applicants of any deficit in the registration fee or yearly fee. The system gives a sort of extension for payment of patent fees shortly before the due date. Even after the due time, applicants who pay the deficit within the short deferment period can keep their IPRs alive.
Madrid Protocol Automation System
In view of the decision to sign the Madrid Protocol in January 2003, we began planning in 2002 to develop a Madrid e-filing and administration system. The system, called M-KEAPS, was completed in December 2002. It conducts formality check, sends applications to WIPO and receives processing results from WIPO. After the final test between WIPO and KIPO, we launched the system in April 2003. In September 2003, we completed the Madrid automation system when we implemented the Madrid registration and trial system.
Data Management Center
Since May 2002, we have managed the Data Management Center. The center compiles high-quality data through systematic analysis; it also generates and processes data and fixes data errors. In 2003, we analyzed the following:
· Data generation: trademark rejections (543 cases from 1990 to 1998) and new trademark applications (137 cases in 2003)
· Data analysis: to understand the cause of data errors and to prevent any delays or errors, we analyzed the trademark data in the KIPOnet database and fixed some errors with the aid of the SQL program.
Classification of goods and services
For the classification of goods and services, we started to use the Nice Classification System in March 1998, and we officially became a party to the Nice Agreement in January 1999. In 2001, we completed the Korean translation of the 8th Nice publication, and in 2002 we began to incorporate the publication into our classification system.
In 2003, to upgrade the quality and consistency of the classification for goods and services, we organized a separate team for classifying figures. In the pursuit of greater fairness and objectivity, we also revised the examination guidelines and published a directory for classifying similar goods and services.
Classification of the figurative elements of marks
We formerly had our own unique standard for classifying the figurative elements of marks but we started to use the Vienna Classification in October 1999. We are now organizing our database in accordance with this new classification, and, in January 2003, we began to apply the 5th Vienna classification.
Since first publishing gazettes on CD-ROMs in May 1998, we have used the searchable SGML format for our search system. We also converted earlier data into the SGML format. Currently, our examiners can conduct full text searches of registered trademarks published as far back as 1947.
Trademark Database
We based the Trademark Search System on a database of bibliographical data, examined trademark images, registered applications and rejected applications. The system also contains referral information such as international pharmaceuticals, international place of origin, foreign trademarks, public marks and geographical indications. All this data is classified according to the Nice Classification, the Vienna Classification and the Similar Group Code depending on the type of trademark, letters, figures and designated products. The data is updated in a batch file periodically for easier text and image searches.
In 2003, we reclassified 60,000 items of figurative marks in accordance with the new classification guidelines. We also gave a similar group code to the 239,000 designated goods that lacked such a code. To enforce the Madrid Protocol, we established an English database of those designated goods in order to make a system that could automatically give a similar group code to other applications filed in English.
Storage configuration
KIPOnet’s storage configuration has two sections: IP administration and the search system. Since electronic applications are original copies and comprise most of the operating data, the storage of electronic applications is essential to the operation of the KIPOnet system. Consequently, we have applied a mirroring of the Raid 1 method to the storage disk.
Search systems apply Raid S or Auto Raid according to the kind of storage disks. The Raid S method takes the parity up to 25 percent, which is the fundamental means for protecting data. Auto Raid, however, has automatic parity that can be adjusted to the volume of data.
Trademark Search System
In January 2001, we introduced the Trademark Search System. Featuring an image-pattern matching engine and an extensive search of homonyms and homophones, the new system enables examiners to efficiently search image data and similarly pronounced trademarks. We continually supplement the system with referral data such as public marks, and we have linked it to our automated trademark examination system.
In 2003, we introduced the concept of an intelligent search system. The system automatically optimizes inquiries of similar names and English-Korean replacement. It rapidly and accurately classifies results by similarity.
KIPOnet II
Since launching KIPOnet, we have had to incorporate into the system the swift changes in the technical and legal trends of the global IPR environment. We need a more stabilized system to meet customer demands, which are becoming diverse and complicated in the digital era. Furthermore, we need a more efficient and optimized system that can flexibly cope with successive revisions of relevant laws and regulations.
To satisfy such needs, we formed a task force in early 2002 to establish an information strategy plan for KIPOnet II. We are currently considering a variety of cutting-edge information technologies such as integrated middleware and XML.
With KIPOnet II, we expect to achieve three goals: to provide nonstop service by integrating our internal and external networks; to update our business processes by adopting simpler IP procedures and at-home examinations; and to enhance our flexibility and efficiency through system integration and real-time system recovery.
In accordance with the Third Three-Year Information-Oriented IPR Administration Plan for the period 2003 to 2005, the task force analyzed the business process in 2003 and completed the design of application systems. The task force also built the fundamental infrastructure of intelligent search systems for patents, trademarks and industrial designs. Using optical CD-ROMs, the task force also developed administration systems for the Madrid-related registration trial system and the PCT e-filing system.
We have computerized all IPR administrative procedures except for the parts that require human judgment. The KIPOnet system, which has approximately 46 subsidiary systems, enables us to manage the data produced in each phase of the procedure, to deal with matters that originate in the transfer of data to the next phase, and to speed up the administration of searches. According to a survey in 2003, approximately 91 percent of our internal users are satisfied with the service provided by KIPOnet.
General Information Management System
The General Information Management System outputs a variety of statistical and policy data related to various types of industrial property such as patents, utility models, trademarks and industrial designs. It does this by using a variety of information that we archive in databases, and the system’s tools efficiently manage large-volume data and provide various features for end-users.
Model Office System
Since December 2000, we have been operating the Model Office System, which is a testing interface for piloting newly developed systems. By testing modified or new programs under the Model Office System before deploying them, we have greatly increased the stability and efficiency of the KIPOnet System.
Data Management System
The Data Management System simplifies the procedure for correcting users’ input errors and for changing data in the old systems. To ensure that we can promptly meet the requests of applicants and KIPO departments, the system maintains a history of data changes and guarantees that data is changed correctly.
Applied Process Monitoring System
The Applied Process Monitoring System aims to prevent problems caused by delays in processing. It also provides information on the management of problems according to application type and application form. In addition, the system analyzes the cause of problems and establishes measures for handling them.
Quality Management System
In December 2000, we constructed the Quality Management System to help manage output, prepare data maps, analyze the status of errors, computerize data changes and so on. The system enhances productivity by establishing standardized processes; it enables efficient use of resources through systematic process management; and it balances the workload of individuals with the workload of developers by coordinating how the workload is distributed among different departments. Moreover, it helps us to efficiently manage quality and improve the work process by continually inspecting the system and improvements with respect to customer satisfaction. We also introduced the Integrated Management System to monitor and manage malfunctions and the security of the internal administration systems in real time. In November 2001, we were granted an ISO9001 Certificate by the Korean Foundation for Quality for our development, management and servicing of the KIPOnet system.
Knowledge Management System
The demand for organized management of knowledge inspired us to introduce the Knowledge Management System in October 2001. The system facilitates the sharing of information among staff members through integrated management of a variety of information about intellectual property. Dedicated to the efficient management of our archived knowledge and information, the system enables our staff to use various management tools such as a knowledge map, a knowledge warehouse, a personalized portal and a cyber knowledge community. It can also provide this information through personalized portals. With this system, we can more efficiently manage knowledge and improve the productivity of our IP administrative processes through the knowledge-portal system for knowledge-based activities.
In designing the architecture of the KIPOnet system, we incorporated a certificate administration server that enables the system to identify the person who files electronic documents. We also incorporated an electronic signature program and certificate encryption program based on the PKI method to guarantee the system's stability against counterfeiting. Furthermore, KIPOnet has a dual network structure that consists of an internal network that handles internal administration and an external network that receives applications and notifies applicants of relevant data. It also has a firewall to prevent illegal intrusion by external users. We used a clustering technique in the main servers to prevent the disruption of services. As a result, since the launch of the KIPOnet system, the on-line operation rate has remained over 99.9 percent.
Hardware
The hardware of the KIPOnet system comprises four parts: servers, storage, peripherals, and networks. The server consists of 30 UNIX servers (Enterprise), one workstation, 27 NT servers and eight small servers. The storage capacity is 35 terabytes, and we use RAID 1, 5, S and Auto RAID according to the method of data protection. The peripherals consist of four backup devices, 17 jukeboxes and 312 items of network equipment. In 2003, we continued to replace and integrate the exiting servers with enhanced servers. For the backup drive in particular, we introduced a new STK L700 and supplemented the 26 LTO drives.
To provide greater access to the KIPOnet system, we constructed a clustering system between the Receiving Server and the Sending Server, between the Document Managing Server and the Publication Server, and between the Administration Automation Server and the General Information Management Server.
The Receiving Server has a set of programs that enables us to cope with the unexpected problems of the Sending Server. For instance, if there is a system failure in the Sending Server, the Receiving Server temporarily substitutes for the Sending Server. The interoperability of clustering allows time to address the problem. Moreover, because the servers of the clustering structure use the same database when using the Oracle Parallel System, we can maintain the accuracy and suitability of data if any failure occurs in the servers.
Network
To enable servers to share storage space, we use a storage area network. The network enables us to efficiently store data, and it reduces the workload of managing disks. The Internet application network is 10 Mbps and comprises a double-line system with a Gigabit Ethernet switch as the backbone switch of the IP administration network. In addition, the network of the E-Patent Portal System is also based on a new double-line backbone switch. To improve our management of the network, we also introduced a tool for analyzing traffic called Sniffer, along with an IP management tool called IP SCAN.
Software
In 2003, we enhanced the KIPOnet system by upgrading its software as follows:
· Oracle of the KIPOnet system: Applied Oracle 8.1.7.4 Patch
· Oracle of the gazette server: from version 8.0.6 to version 8.1.7
· Software for managing the performance of the database: PreciseSQL 3.2 to Veritas i3 Indepth for Oracle 6.2
· Web application server of the e-filing system (Weblogic): from version 5.1 to version 6.1 SP3
· Webserver: iPlanet Webserver 4.1.8 to SunOne 6.0.
To analyze the performance of the SSL that will be applied to the KIPOnet system for PCT e-filing, we used a tool called Application Vantage. To improve the performance, we transferred the FileNET OD backup system to a Document Management Backup Server.
Operation of the KIPOnet system
Since the launch of the KIPOnet system, we have been providing a 24-hour emergency service aimed at stabilizing the server and network. To this end, we instituted a System Management Team, which regularly monitors the system and immediately recovers it when it fails. To improve the efficiency of the KIPOnet system, and for the convenience of applicants and clients, our on-line filing hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m..
For full operation of the KIPOnet system, we strengthened measures for preventing accidents, we constructed an around-the-clock monitoring system, and we continue to improve the performance of the system. We have assigned 88 worker-months to an outsourced system integration company for the running of the software and hardware. Aside from operating 46 subsystems related to functions such as e-filing, internal administration and the search system, the company also maintains the main server, the storage media and the network equipment.
Since inaugurating KIPOnet, we have continued to stabilize and publicize the system through the following measures: by running a User Help Desk, by establishing an On-Site Trouble-Shooting Team, by assigning fifty-one model colleges for IP automation nationwide, and by offering lectures at the International IP Training Institute (IIPTI) on how to use the e-filing system and on-line services.
In addition, to efficiently manage customers and promote various on-line services for the general public, we introduced a Call Center and a service for managing customer relations with respect to patents. Both services provide a single gate for guidance or professional counseling on IPR protection. As a result, we can accumulate the feedback of customers for better policies and IT strategies in the future.
Security
Our security system is based on the public key infrastructure for the encryption and decoding of applications. In addition, we have applied a single sign on the system for tighter security in accordance with the standardized Internet protocol called Directory Access Protocol and public key security.
On-line Payment System
In December 2000, we introduced the On-line Payment System, which enables applicants to use Internet banking to electronically pay or inquire about the initial fees, registration fees and annual registration fees. With the completion of the On-line Registration Request System in July 2002, other official fees can now be paid on-line; for example, the fees for changing the content in the register and for transferring rights such as exclusive or nonexclusive licenses.
Since December 2003, this method of payment has been possible at all banks nationwide. On our Web site, we also streamlined the process for requesting remittance of over-paid fees.
On-line Opposition Request System
With the On-line Opposition Request System, which was launched in July 2002, anybody can oppose an application after the application has been laid open for public inspection. Furthermore, our examiners can use the system to confirm, and give a final decision on, proceedings that involve oppositions to registrations and petitions to cancel registrations. As a result, the system helps reduce the examination period and it minimizes the risk of losing documents during their transfer.
Relocation of the Seoul Branch Office of KIPO
On March 24, 2003, we relocated the Seoul Branch Office at a new building named the Korean Intellectual Property Service Center. When our headquarters moved to the Government Complex in Daejeon in 1998, the Seoul Branch Office was established for the convenience of customers in the Seoul metropolitan area. The branch office conducts intellectual property affairs related to applications, registrations and trials; it offers information on domestic and international intellectual property matters; and it issues all types of certificates to approximately 700 customers a day.
IP Library
The IP Library archives patent documents such as bibliographic data, abstracts and full texts in a variety of media such as paper, microform and CD-ROM. The documents are obtained through an exchange agreement with 26 countries and four international organizations. The collection of patent documents includes 10,277 CDs, 276,562 films, 103,299 volumes of paper documents and 725 DVDs from the USPTO and WIPO.
The library also possesses non-patent documents donated by or purchased from other sources. This material, which comprises 23,379 volumes and 500 periodicals related to science and technology, along with CD-ROMs of annual reports and statistics, is arranged by class or numerical order. All of this material can be searched by our examiners or by the public. An electronic database is provided at the Internet corner of the IP Library. The library also provides a service for purchasing copies of original electronic material such as electronic journals and e-books.
E-Patent Portal System
We established the E-Patent Portal System to transform our Web site into an on-line service for the cyber community. For on-line registration, applicants can get e-signatures and codes via the Internet.
Through a unified portal, all kinds of intellectual property can be filed on-line with the ease of sending e-mail. Customers can pay their fees through Internet banking; and they are informed of the legal status of their applications through e-mail or mobile phone. At our Web site, they can also get diverse certificates and search IPR information. Moreover, “by one call or by one click” customers can get answers to most questions concerning intellectual property rights. This interactive process has overcome the limitation of the one-way notification system.
On-line Certificate Issuance System
We began to issue digital signatures in real-time in February 2002 and issue certificates at our Web site in real-time in December of the same year. Through the On-line Certificate Issuance System, we provide prompt services such as making referrals, issuing various certificates and photocopying documents related to filing, registration and trials. This service enables applicants to request and receive seven kinds of certificates, and to download from the Internet eight kinds of electronic dossiers such as priority certificates. Applicants can also use our Web site to check the status of their requests. Through this service, relevant organizations can verify the authenticity of documents submitted by clients, and we can promptly notify applicants of the progress of their application by e-mail and SMS.
E-filing system
We improved the functions of the e-filing system so that each applicant can request an applicant’s code and the use of electronic documents. Applicants can also use our Web site to change their personal information.
Korea Industrial Property Rights Information Service
Since KIPI’s independence in December 2001, the Korea Industrial Property Rights Information Service (KIPRIS) has provided a specialized IPR information service. In 2003, KIPRIS provided free on-line access to approximately 27 million items of domestic and foreign IP information. In 2002, the number of KIPRIS users increased from 3.8 million to 4.1 million.
Regional or local patent information centers
In 2000, we set up local patent information support centers to publicize the IPR system and disseminate IPR information on a national scale. The centers disseminate IPR information in areas where IT illiteracy is widespread, as well as in industrial complexes and in areas with a high SME concentration.
In 2003, approximately 88,700 people used the centers to acquire IP information, either by visiting the centers in person or making a phone call. Moreover, 11,213 participants received free IPR education through local programs.
Call Center
We established a Call Center to integrate services for counseling and technical advice for IP clients and KIPOnet users in March 2002. In 2003, our 26 staff handled approximately 390,000 requests via the telephone, e-mail and on-line meetings. We also give our customers a call back for requests after working hours. The computerized Call Center incorporates the Customer Relations Management System.
In the interest of exchange, we provide the Official Gazette of Designs and Trademarks on CD-ROM for 23 countries and two international organizations, including the AU, CA, DE, ES, FR, GR, IR, IT, JP, PH, RU, SE, SG, TR, US and the EP. We receive official gazettes in paper form or on CD-ROM from the US, BE and JP. We also receive trademark gazettes on CD-ROM from a few countries such as the LU, US and the BE.
Cooperation with WIPO on the Madrid Protocol
At the 7th Madrid Electronic Communications (MECA) User's Meeting held in Geneva, November 2003, we introduced our automation system for international trademark applications under the Madrid Protocol. We also discussed the change from SGML to XML and relevant standards.
Activities related to the WIPO SCIT and the WIPO Standards
In July 2003, members of the SCIT Standards and Documentation Working Group discussed the WIPO Standards. We also discussed electronic databases, electronic processing of trademarks, and the EDPES (Electronic Data Processing and Exchange). As a result, the group adopted the Korean publication numbering system as one of the WIPO standards.
Presentation of the KIPOnet system at international events
We highlighted the efficiency of the KIPOnet system at the following events:
· EPIDOS users' meeting on Japanese patent information in Vienna, October 2003
· Europe Asia Heads of Intellectual Property Offices Conference in Singapore, November 2003
· EPIDOS Annual Conference 2003 in Luxembourg, November 2003.
Cyber International Patent Academy
The Cyber International Patent Academy offers on-line training courses. The academy completed its contents and database by the end of 2001, and opened the on-line service in May 2002. It trains a diverse group of people interested in IPRs and inventions—from elementary students to senior citizens. In the courses, experts in industry, law, administration and education present relevant IP information, including basic knowledge of IPRs. In 2003, the academy ran 57 courses and its Web site had more than 30,000 hits.
International Intellectual Property Training Institute
In 1987, the IIPTI was established in Seoul as an affiliated organization of KIPO; it initially offered 11 IPR training courses. It moved to Daedeok Science Valley in Daejeon with the support of WIPO and the UNDP in February 1991. Currently, of the IIPTI’s 50 courses, the following four courses are for foreign trainees:
Course on the IPR system of Korea
A course on the IPR system of Korea, which is financed by the Korean International Cooperation Agency, has been held twice a year since 1987. The course explains in detail the Korean IPR system and the development of Korean IPR laws and policies. It targets public officials from developing countries who work in the IPR field.
WIPO Asian Regional Seminar
The WIPO Asian Regional Seminar has been held every year since 1988 in cooperation with WIPO. The seminar aims to help IP experts from the Asia-Pacific region to develop the international IPR system. Participants discuss the recent trends and hot issues of the IPR system and IPR-related treaties. Although the theme varies each year, previous themes have ranged from managing human resources to the computerization of IP administration.
Seminar on IPRs for IPR enforcement staff
A seminar on IPRs for IPR enforcement staff has been held annually in cooperation with the JPO since 2000. The participants include public officials engaged in IPR enforcement, such as customs agents, police, and the staff of intellectual property offices. The goal is to intensity efforts to protect IPRs and to promote international cooperation, especially with respect to laws and treaties related to IPR protection and case studies from the public and private domain on measures to protect IPRs.
Course for IPR instructors
In 2001, the IIPTI cooperated with WIPO in establishing a course for IPR instructors. The course is designed for public officials from the Asia-Pacific region who are engaged IP training. It offers an opportunity for exchanging information and sharing experiences in IP training, as well as developing training expertise.