SK Plasma, SK Chemicals License Technology for Hemophilia Drug 'Aptila' for Domestic Sales

After Technology Outlicensed to CSL Behring in 2009, Returning to Hometown

Kim Yoon-ho, CEO of SK Plasma, and Son Ji-young, CEO of CSL Behring Korea, are posing for a commemorative photo after signing the sales contract for Appstila. (Photo by SK Plasma)

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Ji-hee] SK Plasma announced on the 25th that it has signed an exclusive sales contract for CSL Behring Korea's hemophilia new drug 'Aptstila' (generic name: Ronoctocog Alfa). CSL Behring is responsible for the production and import of Aptstila, while SK Plasma handles all domestic marketing.

Aptstila is a product completed through the technology export of 'NBP601,' a substance independently developed by SK Chemicals, to CSL Behring in 2009. At that time, it was noted as the first case of technology export of a bio new drug in Korea. It is the world's first and only type A hemophilia treatment designed with single-chain technology, characterized by extended in vivo action time, improved stability, and prolonged drug efficacy duration.

In addition to SK Chemicals' core technology, Aptstila developed through CSL Behring's research and development (R&D) has been launched in major markets such as the United States, Germany, Italy, and Japan since 2015. This time, it has returned to its hometown, Korea, where the original new substance was developed. The domestic sales rights of Aptstila were acquired by SK Plasma, which spun off from SK Chemicals in 2015.

Kim Yun-ho, CEO of SK Plasma, said, "I feel deeply moved that the long-term investment in R&D has borne fruit and returned to Korea," adding, "We expect that Aptstila, completed through SK's core technology and CSL Behring's excellent technical capabilities, will contribute to improving the quality of life for hemophilia patients."

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