Mobility and Robotics Patents in Korea

Q: How do you protect an invention combining hardware and software?

We consider mechanical structures, control methods and system architecture separately, with separate applications where appropriate. Component makers and software suppliers often differ, so the claims should cover subject matter each party can implement independently.

Q: Can control algorithms be patented?

Claims that explain how sensor inputs control an actuator can qualify. The specification should describe the inputs, decision criteria and output commands, together with resulting improvements such as driving stability or response time.

Q: Should we file before a demonstration or exhibition?

Filing before disclosure is the starting point because disclosure can destroy novelty. Korea has a 12-month disclosure exception for qualifying disclosures, while exceptions in Europe and China are narrower. Review the disclosure and filing plan before showing a prototype.

Q: Can robot applications receive accelerated examination?

Advanced robotics has been covered by Korea’s advanced-technology acceleration notices. From 23 February 2026, qualifying startups within seven years of establishment, venture businesses and Inno-Biz companies were also included in the ultra-fast track for advanced robotics. Check the current notice for eligibility and request periods.

Mobility and robotics combine hardware and control software in one product. Claims should address the flow from sensing to decisions and actuation at device, method, component and system levels, taking account of who performs each part.

How we can help

Autonomous driving and ADAS: Sensor fusion, perception, decisions and route generation
Robotics: Navigation, path planning, manipulator control and humanoids
Vehicle electronics and electrification: Power conversion, motor control and vehicle communications
Drones and aviation: Flight control, take-off and landing systems and traffic management

Your patent attorneys

Yeo Jung-Min — Partner, Korean Patent Attorney

Education: Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Yonsei University; graduate studies in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Seoul National University
Qualifications: Passed the 53rd Korean Patent Attorney Examination
Career: Patent Attorney, Pine IP Firm (2025–present)
Lee & Mock (2018–2025)
Gasan Patent & Law Firm (2017–2018)
LIG Nex1 (2013–2014)
Experience and activities: Samsung SAIT outstanding representative (2020 and 2024)
Representation of Samsung Electronics, Samsung Science & Technology Foundation, KT&G and the Agency for Defense Development

Yeo Jung-Min — View profile

Kang Min-ho — Managing Korean Patent Attorney

Education: Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University
Qualifications: Passed the 53rd Korean Patent Attorney Examination
Career: Managing Patent Attorney, Pine IP Firm (2022–present)
Patent Attorney, Electronics Team, Jiwon IP Law Firm (2020–2022)
Patent Attorney, Electronics Team, Lee & Mock (2018–2020)
Patent Attorney, Wooin Patent & Law Firm (2017–2018)
Experience and activities: Korean and overseas patent protection for aviation and drone systems
Mentor for the Busan Regional Public Procurement Service’s BIG3 eco-friendly vehicle mentoring platform
Evaluation committee member for Ulsan ICT Promotion Agency’s shipbuilding and marine ICT commercialization support program

Kang Min-ho — View profile

Representative experience

Drone take-off and landing systems

Korean and overseas protection

Korean patent filing and overseas protection support for an aviation and drone company’s take-off and landing technology.

Fuel-cell vehicle bipolar-plate technology

Technology commercialization

Work on a hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle bipolar-plate project under KIAT’s cross-ministry technology commercialization program.

IP-R&D strategy for defense companies

Training

Lectures on IP-R&D, claim scope and infringement disputes in a patent search and analysis training course run by the Korea Intellectual Property Strategy Agency.

Procedure and timing in Korea

From application to grant

Consultation and invention reviewWe review your invention disclosure, drawings and experimental data to define what to protect.
Prior-art search and application draftingUsually two weeks to one monthWe search Korean and overseas patent literature, assess patentability and draft the specification and claims.
Filing and request for examinationRequest examination on filing or within three years of the filing dateWe file in Korea and request examination, with a request for accelerated examination where the requirements are met.
Examination and office-action response2025 averages to the first examination result: 14.7 months for regular examination; 2.1 months for accelerated examinationIf an office action issues, we prepare arguments and amendments within the notified response period, usually two months for domestic applicants. Extensions may be available.
GrantPay the registration fee within three months of receiving the decision to grantThe patent right takes effect upon registration after payment of the registration fee.

Related insights

Frequently asked questions

How do you protect an invention combining hardware and software?

Can control algorithms be patented?

Should we file before a demonstration or exhibition?

Can robot applications receive accelerated examination?

Request a consultation

Tell us about your technology, development stage and intended filing date.

info@pinepat.com
+82 52-713-5309
Monday–Friday, 09:00–18:00 (Korea Standard Time, UTC+9)

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