Merck is dedicating over €300 million towards establishing a state-of-the-art Bioprocessing Production Center in Daejeon, South Korea. This substantial investment marks the largest commitment by Merck's Life Science division in the Asia-Pacific region thus far, showcasing the company's strong dedication to bolstering its capabilities in this rapidly developing area. The investment is anticipated to generate approximately 300 new positions by the conclusion of 2028, further underlining Merck's commitment to fostering growth and innovation in the region.
“The Asia-Pacific region is home to a large number of institutions that conduct leading-edge and innovative research, manufacturing and services in areas such as biotechnology, mRNA and gene therapy”, said Matthias Heinzel, Member of the Executive Board of Merck and CEO Life Science. “Expanding our presence in the region will bring us even closer to our customers in this evolving and dynamic market. Our goal is to foster deep collaboration to increase the speed in bringing new therapies to patients”.
The center will provide essential assistance to biotechnology and pharmaceutical firms in various areas, including process development, clinical research, and the commercial production of biologics. Biologics, which encompass vaccines, cell and gene therapies, and protein-based treatments like monoclonal antibodies, are comprised of intricate and sizable biological compounds. This category of medications is recognized as one of the most rapidly expanding in the pharmaceutical industry.
Merck's newly established Bioprocessing Production Center will offer critical biotech essentials, including dry powder cell culture media, process liquids, pre-GMP small-scale manufacturing, and sterile sampling systems. Spanning 43,000 square meters, the facility will feature cutting-edge production capabilities alongside a distribution center and an automated warehouse.
Since its establishment in 1989, Merck Korea has maintained a steadfast commitment to fostering vibrant advancements in the fields of science and technology. With a workforce exceeding 1,700 individuals spread across the Life Science, Healthcare, and Electronics sectors, Merck Korea operates across 13 sites dedicated to production and research and development (R&D). Among these sites is the M Lab Collaboration Center located in Songdo, Incheon, which serves as a hub for biopharmaceutical companies in the region.
Merck's recent establishment in South Korea is a component of a comprehensive, multi-year investment initiative. The primary objective is to enhance the capacity and capabilities of Merck's Life Science division, effectively meeting the escalating global need for vital medications and contributing substantially to public health. Since 2020, Merck has unveiled expansion projects in industrial capacity and capabilities within the Life Science sector across Europe, China, and the United States, representing an investment exceeding €2 billion.