President Moon: "Novavax Technology Transfer Will Delight Our People"

Video Call with Novavax CEO on COVID-19 Vaccine... "Determined to Be a Game Closer, Not a Game Changer"

[Asia Economy Reporter Ryu Jeong-min] On the 20th, President Moon Jae-in conveyed that the Korean people would be pleased to hear news about the technology transfer of the 'COVID-19' vaccine during a 'video conference' with Stanley Erck, CEO of Novavax.

Kang Min-seok, spokesperson for the Blue House, disclosed the contents of the call between President Moon and the Novavax CEO during an afternoon briefing at the Press Center.

President Moon emphasized that over the past year, COVID-19 has caused the world to suffer the pain of losing family members, and that vaccines are the greatest hope to fight against COVID-19. When President Moon inquired about Novavax's vaccine development status, the Novavax CEO replied that Phase 3 clinical trials are underway.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

In particular, the Novavax CEO highlighted SK Bioscience's outstanding technological capabilities and expressed expectations that they would be excellent partners.

President Moon asked about the issue of technology transfer for the Novavax vaccine. The Novavax CEO explained, "Since August last year, we have maintained an excellent relationship with SK Bioscience. We cooperate daily and plan to further expand this relationship."

President Moon said, "This is very good news. Our people will be very pleased to hear this news," adding, "I hope the contract will be completed swiftly. The Korean government also pledges active support in technology transfer, production, supply, and administrative assistance."

The Blue House expects the technology transfer contract with Novavax to be finalized as early as this month. The Blue House anticipates that if Korea secures vaccines independently, it could become not a game changer but a game closer in the fight against COVID-19.