When did the Korean Intellectual Property Office become an International Searching Authority for PCT applications?
The Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO) has been available as an International Searching Authority (ISA) for PCT applications since January 1, 2006. This applies to 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.
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.
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