The global vaccine market continues to grow, prompting domestic pharmaceutical companies to diversify their market strategies. In addition to expanding overseas supply chains, they are focusing on developing next-generation vaccines and securing global quality certifications to strengthen their positions.
According to Global Market Insights, the global vaccine market is expected to grow from $78.9 billion (approximately 120 trillion won) in 2025 to $145.8 billion (approximately 223 trillion won) by 2034. Factors driving this growth include the rise of infectious diseases, an increase in the population of children in developing countries, and a growing emphasis on vaccinations due to aging populations.
GC Pharma recently unveiled its messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine development strategy at the 'Seoul Pandemic X Summit 2026.' The company is currently developing two COVID-19 vaccine candidates, 'GC4002B' and 'GC4006A.' GC4002B is in the preclinical stage, while GC4006A completed its first dose administration in a Phase 1 clinical trial earlier this year.
The application of mRNA technology is expanding beyond infectious disease response to include cancer and rare diseases. The lipid nanoparticle (LNP) technology for safely delivering mRNA to cells is also considered a key component. Once a platform is established, new vaccines can be developed within months by simply replacing the antigens. A GC Pharma representative stated, "We aim to establish vaccine sovereignty and are working towards entering Phase 2 clinical trials within this year."
SK Bioscience has signed a licensing agreement with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to develop an injectable rotavirus vaccine and has begun process development. This initiative aims to overcome the limitations of existing oral rotavirus vaccines, which show over 85% efficacy in developed countries but drop below 50% in low- and middle-income countries. Once development is complete, the vaccine will undergo clinical trials and regulatory approval before commercialization.
The company is also accelerating its expansion into the Latin American market. Recently, it signed a contract with Colombia's state-owned pharmaceutical company, VECOL, for vaccine technology transfer and local production collaboration. The initial technology transfer product will be the varicella vaccine 'SkyVaricella.' After establishing a local production system, the company is considering expanding its collaboration to additional vaccine products.
SK Bioscience plans to broaden its presence in the public procurement market. Following its successful bid for the Pan American Health Organization's (PAHO) varicella vaccine in 2022, the company has been designated as a supplier for UNICEF's 2026 influenza vaccine.
An industry insider remarked, "The vaccine business is expanding into areas such as platform technology acquisition, local production, and entry into the global procurement market. As the vaccine market grows, the role of domestic companies is also increasing."
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.