[2020 National Audit] SME 'Technology Theft' Nearly Tripled

Damage Amount from 2015 to 2019: 434.6 Billion Won

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Daeseop] The number of cases of technology theft from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) has surged. In particular, many SMEs have suffered damage due to the leakage and theft of technical data but have taken no special measures, according to a survey.

According to data submitted by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups to Lee Jangseop, a member of the National Assembly's Industry, Trade, Energy, SMEs and Startups Committee from the Democratic Party, 243 SMEs suffered damage from technology leakage and theft between 2015 and 2019. The number of cases reached 316, with damages amounting to 434.6 billion won.

The types of technology leakage damage included research project development plans, research project result data, design drawings, products in production, and final research results. Technology leakage damage mainly occurred through copying and theft, emails or portable devices, joint ventures, and collaborative research.

Since 2018, investigations have distinguished between technology leakage and technology theft. The number of technology theft cases, which was 8 in 2018, increased sharply to 22 in 2019.

Despite suffering damage from the leakage and theft of technical data, many SMEs did not take special measures. It was found that more than half of the companies took no action after technology theft in 2019.

Assemblyman Lee Jangseop said, "We must establish a fair trade order and enhance the competitiveness of SMEs through the Win-Win Cooperation Act, which contains the core to eradicate technology theft," adding, "Since it was once stalled due to various oppositions in the 20th National Assembly, the role of the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, which has the obligation to protect SMEs, is even more important."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.