Who can use the Korean Intellectual Property Office as an International Searching Authority for PCT applications?

The Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO) is available as an International Searching Authority (ISA) for PCT applications filed by U.S. nationals or residents. This applies to applications filed in two specific receiving offices:

• The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) as receiving Office
• The International Bureau (IB) as receiving Office

As stated in MPEP 1840.02: Since January 1, 2006, the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO) has been available as an International Searching Authority for PCT applications filed by U.S. nationals or residents in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) as receiving Office or in the International Bureau (IB) as receiving Office.

To learn more:

• KIPO
• International Searching Authority
• PCT applications
• U.S. nationals
• U.S. residents
• USPTO
• International Bureau