Q. Thank you very much for participating as a sponsor of BIX for four consecutive years. Could you please provide an introduction to Merck Process Solutions in Korea.

A. Merck Korea Process Solutions business handles raw materials, subsidiary materials, related equipment, and services necessary for biopharmaceutical manufacturing. We support process optimization at all stages, from early-stage to industrial production.

The goal of the process solutions business is to provide solutions for the entire process, going beyond products, providing technical expertise, and customized solutions in process development, helping partners release life science therapies in markets faster and safer.

Q. Through BIX 2023, you addressed the application of PUPSIT in the processes from biopharmaceutical production to the design of bacterial removal capability tests. Could you please introduce the topic that Merck will cover in the business session at BIX 2024?

A. Dr. Chester Hu, the Senior Modality Expert mAb/ADC - Asia Pacific at Merck, will deliver a session on Considerations for Accelerating the Process Development and Manufacturing for ADC. Biopharmaceutical market overview and approval trends indicate mAb will remain a dominant therapeutic modality. ADC development and manufacturing rely on critical conjugation processes. This conference will cover market dynamics, challenges, and innovative technologies from conjugation to fill-finish, including buffers and stabilizers.

Q. During BIX 2023, Merck hosted the Advance Biotech Grant Program awards ceremony, and we are aware that preparations are underway for the second edition this year. I would appreciate a more detailed introduction to Merck's proud initiatives, such as supporting venture startups and other exclusive events.

A. The Advance Biotech Grant Program aims to identify and support promising domestic biotech and synthetic drug startups. Last year, Merck supported five startups that advanced to the finals with outstanding platform technologies, providing customized support to help these companies further develop their unique technologies. This year, with the total prize amounting to 320 million KRW, along with Merck’s products and services, we look forward to furthering our goal of advancing life and health through science.

Q. As a global enterprise, Merck has made significant contributions to bioprocessing in Korea and the Asia-Pacific region, exemplified by initiatives like the Advance Biotech Grant Program. Could you please provide an overview of the upcoming Bioprocessing Production Center to be established in Daejeon?

A. South Korea is a major hub for the pharmaceutical and biotech industries in the Asia-Pacific region. Last May, Merck committed to an investment of 300 million EUR to establish a bioprocessing center in Daejeon.

This investment is the largest Merck Life Science has made in the Asia-Pacific region, reflecting dedication to contributing to the growing biotechnology industry. The center will supply products and solutions for biopharmaceutical development and manufacturing, including dry powder cell culture media, process liquids, small-scale pre-GMP manufacturing, and sterile sampling systems.