SK Biopharm has established a new drug development task force (TF) with SK Inc., the holding company of SK Group. With key personnel from both SK and SK Biopharm heavily involved in the TF, it has been reported that Choi Yoon-jung, head of the Strategic Investment Team at SK Biopharm and eldest daughter of SK Group Chairman Choi Tae-won, has also joined, drawing attention to the future pharmaceutical and bio research and development (R&D) trends within SK Group.
According to industry sources on the 24th, the two companies recently formed this TF to strengthen new drug development in the pharmaceutical and bio sectors. However, since the TF is still in its early stages, concrete development directions have yet to be determined.
Vice Chairman Jang Dong-hyun, CEO of SK, is leading the TF. From SK, Kim Yeon-tae, head of the Bio Investment Center, and Jo Ah-ryeon, group leader of the Bio Investment Center, have joined, while from SK Biopharm, President Lee Dong-hoon and Head of Strategy & Investment Yoo Chang-ho have participated. Additionally, it is reported that Chairman Choi’s eldest daughter, Team Leader Choi, is also involved.
An SK official explained, "As President Lee Dong-hoon, formerly head of the holding company’s Bio Investment Center, moved to SK Biopharm, exchanges between the two companies naturally increased. SK Biopharm is preparing follow-up products, and since the Bio Investment Center also has a division investing in new drug development, the TF was formed."
The TF is scheduled to begin operations on the 27th.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
