The KIPOnet system, launched in 1999, is used for processing most applications, examinations, registrations, trials and various types of certificates.

The amount saved through online applications, registrations, and other services provided through the system, totaled KRW 1.46 trillion (US$1.33bn), according to the center. Users have been able to save both time and money as they are no longer required to approach KIPO directly and the resulting low fees for e-applications which followed on the coattails of the automation system.

Most of the savings resulted from KIPO providing global patent information online to promote technological development in public and private R&D projects and prevent duplicated research. The center assessed that this has led to savings of KRW 4.512 trillion (US$4.1bn) in transportation costs and time saved, which would otherwise have been spent in searches for patent technology information.

The online processing of work at KIPO such as searches, preparing notices, storing documents, and publishing its gazette, has improved the overall efficiency of its operations, leading to estimated savings of KRW 869.6 billion (US $791m).

“These positive economic effects are worth around 11 times the initial investment made to develop the automation system,” a KIPO officer said. “We will continue to improve the system to give more convenient and quicker patent application and examination procedures, which will help establish Korea as a powerful global center for intellectual property.”