Utility Models
A device which relates to the shape, structure of an article or a combination of articles is protected upon the registration of a utility model pursuant to the Utility Model Law. The device also must satisfy the same basic criteria of invention and be a creation of a technical idea utilizing the laws of nature.


Applications for utility models are not subject to substantive examination, except for the Formality and Basic requirements Examination. Furthermore, an applicant for a utility model registration can make a dual application, one for a utility model registration and the other for a patent on the same invention. By this dual application, quick protection can be obtained through a utility model registration without substantive examination, and simultaneously more definite protection for a longer term can be obtained through the grant of a patent with substantive examination.

The term of a utility model is 10 years from the filing date.
The registration process for utility models is as follows;
Central P.O. Box 926
Seoul, Korea
TEL: +82 2 568 9714.9807.9654 / FAX: +82 2 555 0053
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