#South Korea #Seoul #Kolmar Korea #Intercos Korea #sunscreen technology

Kolmar Korea's Legal Triumph Over Intercos Korea in Trade Secrets

In a significant legal development, Kolmar Korea has successfully secured a ruling against Intercos Korea concerning the unauthorized disclosure of critical proprietary technology used in sunscreen products. The South Korean courts have officially held Intercos Korea responsible for both civil and criminal liabilities related to this case, setting a significant precedent for the protection of trade secrets.

This legal battle traces back to a theft of essential research and development materials by former Kolmar employee, referred to as A, who transferred to Intercos Korea. During this transition, A illegally appropriated proprietary formulations for sunscreen creams and key data concerning new product developments. Investigations later indicated that another former employee, B, participated in the misappropriation of this sensitive information as well.

In January 2024, the Supreme Court of Korea found both A and B guilty of their actions. Furthermore, in October 2024, the Suwon District Court ruled against Intercos Korea, asserting that the company had violated laws concerning unfair competition and protection of trade secrets, imposing a fine of 5 million KRW (approximately 4,400 USD).

As a consequence of the ruling, Intercos Korea, along with the involved former employee, is ordered to pay Kolmar Korea a total of 31.2 million KRW (approximately 27,000 USD) to cover all legal expenses incurred during this protracted dispute. This move illustrates the judiciary's firm stance on protecting intellectual property rights and discouraging corporate espionage in Korea.

A spokesperson for Kolmar Korea referenced the decision as a robust affirmation of their commitment to ensure accountability for the unauthorized leaks of proprietary technologies. The representative stated, "We will continue to take all necessary measures to safeguard our core technologies and R&D resources."

Kolmar Korea is widely recognized for its advanced research and development capabilities in the global sunscreen market. In 2022, the company established the UV Tech Innovation Lab, focused on pioneering research in UV protection technologies. Currently, Kolmar Korea holds over 100 patents concerning such innovations. Their achievements include the world's first hybrid sunscreen stabilization technology that combines both mineral and chemical UV filters, highlighting their pioneering role in the industry. Notably, they were also the first company in Korea to receive FDA OTC certification for sunscreen products back in 2013.

This legal victory reaffirms Kolmar Korea's position in the cosmetics sector, showcasing their dedication to protecting innovation and advocating for ethical business practices in the fiercely competitive landscape of personal care products.