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

This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice.

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.