#South Korea #Incheon #SK bioscience #RSV antibody #RIGHT Foundation

SK bioscience Secures Major Funding for RSV Antibody Development

On March 18, 2026, SK bioscience proudly announced that it has successfully entered into a significant funding agreement with the Research Investment for Global Health Technology Foundation, commonly referred to as the RIGHT Foundation. This partnership is set to greatly support the early clinical development of a novel monoclonal antibody, known as RSM01, aimed at preventing infections caused by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Funding for Advancement

The need for effective RSV prevention strategies is clear, especially in vulnerable populations such as infants and young children. Under the RIGHT Foundation’s Product Development Award, SK bioscience received a remarkable KRW 4 billion (approximately USD 3.0 million), which stands as the maximum funding allocated for each project. This financial boost is poised to expedite the ongoing Phase 1b clinical trials for RSM01.

The RSM01 Candidate

RSM01 is a cutting-edge therapeutic candidate that was licensed from the Gates Medical Research Institute earlier this month. Developed in collaboration with the U.S.-based biotech company Adimab, this monoclonal antibody underwent promising early studies that confirmed its ability to suppress RSV infections. The antibody is specifically designed to provide continuous protection throughout the RSV season with just a single dose administered to newborns and infants.

Addressing Global Health Needs

The global burden of RSV is significant, causing numerous respiratory illnesses that lead to hospitalizations each year. According to forecasts from evaluate, the RSV preventive antibody market is anticipated to surge to USD 4.5 billion by 2032, highlighting the critical need for effective solutions. As SK bioscience embarks on this clinical journey, it plans to implement a dual commercialization strategy. This approach targets maximizing market value in affluent regions while ensuring affordable access in lower-income countries through large-scale production

The Path Ahead

Jinseon Park, COO of SK bioscience, affirmed that this funding agreement underscores both the technological promise of RSM01 and the firm's dedication to advancing global public health. By harnessing SK bioscience’s expertise in research and development paired with robust manufacturing capabilities, the company is positioned to enhance its competitive edge in the global biotechnology landscape.

Beyond the RSV project, SK bioscience is focused on a diverse pipeline combating various infectious diseases. This includes developing next-generation pneumococcal vaccines and universal coronavirus vaccines, setting the company on a path of sustained growth and innovation.

By tackling urgent health crises with tailored solutions, SK bioscience continues to pave the way for improved healthcare access worldwide. They remain steadfast in their commitment to public health, collaborating with various stakeholders to deliver high-quality vaccines that meet the critical needs of populations in dire need.

About SK bioscience

SK bioscience stands as an innovative player in the vaccine and biotech sector, dedicated to vaccine development and equitable distribution worldwide. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies, the company strives to enhance human health through prevention and effective treatments.

With their commitment to integrating research, development, and manufacturing, SK bioscience aims to remain competitive in the global market, focusing on creating holistic healthcare solutions that have a lasting impact on global health outcomes.