A century ago, Yuhan Corporation announced its commitment to the public with its willow logo from a small office in Jongno. This year, to celebrate its 100th anniversary, the company transformed its former headquarters into a cultural complex named 'Willow House.' This space, built on a century of history, now presents Yuhan's vision for the next 100 years, focusing on health, sharing, and the future.
On June 24, Yuhan Corporation introduced 'Willow House' to the media at its headquarters in Dongjak-gu, Seoul. CEO Cho Wook-je stated, "Willow House is a place that has been with Yuhan since we moved our headquarters to Daebang-dong in 1962 for 35 years. We preserved the old brick structure, remodeling it instead of demolishing it, and created a new space for the next 100 years on top of it." He added, "Our journey to become a global innovative pharmaceutical company that contributes to humanity's health has begun anew. We will add a century of promises on top of a century of trust."
Opened on June 20, 'Willow House' is a remodeled version of the former headquarters, which served as the company's main office and pharmaceutical production site from 1962 to 1997. Designed to serve both employees and the public, it reflects the late Dr. Yoo Il-han's vision of giving back to society. The space allows visitors to experience Yuhan's 100-year history and participate in health-focused programs that embody Dr. Yoo's philosophy while showcasing the company's plans for the next century.
The newly transformed cultural complex is divided into two main areas: the 'Yuhan Archive' and 'Willow Ground.' The Yuhan Archive showcases the founding spirit and 100-year history of Yuhan Corporation, while Willow Ground serves as a community engagement space, featuring a café, restaurant, and areas for business meetings and small events.
Upon entering the first floor of Willow House, visitors are greeted by a large representation of Yuhan Corporation's 'willow' logo on one wall. Additionally, there is a promotional video detailing Yuhan's 100-year history and the various businesses it has engaged in over the years. Historical products, from the 1933 anti-inflammatory pain reliever 'Antiphlamin' to 'Lecraza,' the first domestically produced cancer drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2024, are displayed chronologically, highlighting Yuhan's role in the growth of South Korea's pharmaceutical and biotech industry.
Founded in 1926 by Dr. Yoo Il-han, Yuhan Corporation has grown to become a leading pharmaceutical company in South Korea. According to the Korea Listed Companies Association, Yuhan is the 11th company among domestic listed firms to celebrate its 100th anniversary.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.