SCM Life Sciences Appoints Son Byung-kwan, Director of Cheongju Medical Center, as New CEO

Son Byung-kwan, the newly appointed CEO of SCM Life Science.

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-joo] SCM Life Sciences, a cell therapy research and development company, announced on the 16th that its regular board meeting recently resolved to appoint Son Byung-kwan as the new CEO. The company plans to confirm Son's appointment at a special shareholders' meeting in July.

SCM Life Sciences explained that although it faced difficulties following the sudden passing of former CEO Song Soon-wook in March, it has been focusing on strengthening its foundation and stabilizing management and business under the leadership of each division head.

Furthermore, to appoint the new CEO, the board and management established criteria including high expertise in clinical matters, a broad network, extensive management experience in research and clinical organizations, and a deep understanding of SCM Life Sciences, and have been searching for a candidate who can realize the company's vision.

Son, the CEO nominee, is one of the founding members of SCM Life Sciences. After earning his bachelor's degree from Seoul National University College of Medicine and completing his master's and doctorate in pediatrics, he has served as Dean of Inha University College of Medicine, President and Chairman of the Korean Academy of Pediatric Allergy and Respiratory Disease, and is currently the Director of Cheongju Medical Center.

Son stated, “I will continue the legacy of the late CEO Song Soon-wook by dedicating myself to the development of innovative therapeutics and strive to become a company that brings greater hope to patients with intractable rare diseases,” adding, “I will work with the board and employees to lead SCM Life Sciences to its second and third leaps forward.”

Song Gi-ryeong, the late CEO’s wife and largest shareholder, conveyed her intention to clearly separate ownership and management, represent shareholders' interests as a non-executive director, and diligently oversee the management. She also expressed her position to actively support the new CEO as the largest shareholder to ensure stable company operations.

SCM Life Sciences is developing treatments for atopic dermatitis and acute pancreatitis based on its proprietary stem cell source technology, the 'layered separation culture method.'