Comprehensive Guide to License Transfer in South Korea
2 min read

Introduction 

License Transfer in South Korea refers to the process of transferring the marketing authorization (MA) of a medicinal product from one holder to another. In South Korea, the transfer of a license for medicinal products involves moving the marketing authorization of a medicinal product from the current holder to a new entity.

This process is regulated by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) and ensures that the new Marketing Authorization Holder (MAH) transfer is handled by an organization capable of maintaining the safety, efficacy, and quality of the medicinal product.

Importance of Marketing Authorization (MA) 

Marketing Authorization (MA) is a fundamental Regulatory requirement that guarantees the safety, efficacy, and quality of medicinal products. It involves a rigorous evaluation process by Regulatory authorities and is essential for bringing new medicines to market while protecting public health.

In the context of license transfer in South Korea, maintaining the validity and integrity of the MA is crucial to ensure that the medicinal product continues to meet the standards set by the MFDS.

Role of a Marketing Authorization Holder (MAH) 

A Marketing Authorization Holder (MAH) is an entity, usually a pharmaceutical company, that holds the marketing authorization (MA) for a medicinal product. This entity is legally responsible for the product on the market and ensures that it complies with Regulatory standards.

During a Marketing Authorization Holder (MAH) transfer, the responsibilities of the product shift from the existing MAH to the new MAH while maintaining compliance with all applicable regulations.

License Transfer in South Korea: Procedure and Requirements

Initiation of the Transfer Process

The transfer process begins with the current MAH applying to the MFDS.

The application must include a transfer application form, an agreement between the current and new MAH, and detailed information about the new MAH’s qualifications and facilities. This step forms a critical part of the MFDS license transfer process, ensuring transparency and Regulatory compliance.

Documentation Requirements

The MFDS requests multiple documents for the transfer process, including but not limited to:

  • Original marketing authorization certificate
  • Product dossier
  • Certificate of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)
  • Other supporting Regulatory documents

Proper documentation is essential to ensure a smooth license transfer in South Korea and avoid Regulatory delays.

Review and Approval

The MFDS carefully reviews the application to ensure that the new MAH complies with all Regulatory requirements.

Upon successful review, the MFDS approves the transfer and issues a new marketing authorization certificate to the new MAH as part of the MFDS license transfer process.

Continuous Compliance

After the transfer is completed, the new MAH must ensure continuous compliance with all Regulatory requirements set by the MFDS. Maintaining Regulatory compliance is essential to ensure the uninterrupted availability of the medicinal product in the market.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, license transfer in South Korea is a structured Regulatory process that requires careful documentation, Regulatory review, and ongoing compliance with MFDS requirements.

With the right Regulatory expertise and guidance, companies can navigate the license transfer in South Korea efficiently while maintaining uninterrupted market access. Freyr’s Regulatory experts support pharmaceutical companies in managing MAH transfers and navigating the MFDS license transfer process with confidence.

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