Hurom Triumphs in Major Patent Case Against Kuvings' NUC Juicers

Hurom, a renowned pioneer in slow-juicing technology, has celebrated a significant victory in a recent patent infringement case against NUC, the manufacturer behind the Kuvings juicer line, as confirmed by the Korea Trade Commission (KTC). The investigation into NUC unveiled undisputed evidence of unfair trade practices, solidifying Hurom's long-standing commitment to protecting its innovations in juicer technology.

The KTC’s decision came after Hurom lodged a formal complaint in December 2023, which led to an inquiry commencing in January 2024. On December 19, 2024, the commission officially announced that NUC had violated Hurom’s patent rights, labeling the behavior as an unfair trade practice. The KTC delivered stringent corrective measures, including a fine totaling approximately $105,000 (152.5 million KRW) and mandated NUC to cease production and distribution of its AUTO10 model juicer. Furthermore, NUC was instructed to publicly announce the infringement along with the imposed sanctions.

The ruling adds to a series of legal challenges NUC has faced regarding patent issues, particularly a previous ruling by Amazon’s Patent Evaluation Express (APEX) process, which found NUC guilty of similar violations in July 2023. Consequently, this led to a halt in the sales of five notable NUC models in the United States while further claims were examined. With this consistent pattern of conviction, Hurom strengthens its position in the industry, showcasing its dedication to ethical practices and the protection of intellectual property.

A household name since its inception in 1974, Hurom has consistently pushed the envelope in juicing technology, establishing itself as a leader in health innovation tools. The company was the first to develop a vertical slow juicer, and its numerous patents underline its relentless pursuit of technological advancement in the health sector. The protections Hurom has put in place reflect its commitment to quality and innovation, evident as it takes aggressive legal actions against companies infringing upon intellectual property.

Hurom's ongoing litigation extends beyond Korea; it's also engaged in cases with the Unified Patent Court (UPC) in Europe, reinforcing its stand against patent infringement across geographical boundaries. These efforts emphasize the brand's resolve to safeguard its revolutionary juicing technology in a competitive marketplace.

As industries evolve, so do challenges related to intellectual property, making Hurom’s victory a significant development. The commission's ruling serves as an important topic for the industry, marking a commitment to fostering fair competition and innovation. As consumers continue to demand high-quality products, Hurom’s aggressive protection strategies ensure they maintain their reputation as leaders in slow-juicing technology.

With Hurom’s commitment to innovation and excellence, the firm not only sets a standard for quality juicing appliances but also establishes a precedent for fair business practices in the consumer appliance sector. The outcome of this legal battle signals to all market players the importance of originality and proper adherence to patent laws and encourages a robust understanding of ethical entrepreneurship in today’s commercial landscape.