South Korea’s patent applications in 3D printing construction technology grew by 13% between 2017 and 2021, securing the top position globally. (Image courtesy of Pixabay/CCL)
SEOUL, Oct. 28 (Korea Bizwire) – South Korea has emerged as the world leader in growth rate of three-dimensional (3D) printing construction technology patent applications over the past five years, according to recent data.
The Korean Intellectual Property Office reported on October 27 that an analysis of global patents filed with the IP5 (the five largest intellectual property offices in Korea, the U.S., China, EU, and Japan) showed South Korea’s patent applications in 3D printing construction technology grew by 13% between 2017 and 2021, securing the top position globally.
China followed with 9.2% growth, while the United States recorded 9.1%, Germany 7.5%, and other countries collectively showed 2.5% growth. The patent office attributed Korea’s leading position to the government’s recognition of 3D printing as a core industry for future economic growth and its subsequent implementation of supportive policies.
Analysis of South Korea’s 167 patent applications in 3D printing construction technology between 2012 and 2021 reveals that private companies led with 58 applications (34.7%), followed by universities with 51 (30.5%), and individuals and public institutions each contributing 29 applications (17.4%).
Among domestic entities, the Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology ranked highest with 13 patent applications (19th globally), followed by Yonsei University with 10 applications (21st globally), Sejong University with 6 applications (42nd globally), and both HISYS and D1Tech with five applications each (50th globally).
“3D printing construction technology represents an environmentally friendly building method that produces almost no construction waste,” said Han Ji-hye, head of the Smart Manufacturing Examination Team.
“It’s an advanced technology capable of constructing buildings in environments inaccessible to humans, such as the moon or ocean floor. We will continue to support Korea’s leadership in the field of 3D printing construction.”
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
