GAIA-BT, an emerging leader in South Korean biotechnology, marked its presence at BIO Japan 2025, Asia’s largest bio-industry convention. Dr. Yun Kyoung Kang (CEO of GAIA-BT) was invited by the Korea Institute of Toxicology (KIT), one of the event organizers, to contribute as a key presenter at the 'K-Startup@bio IR DAY'  event.(1)

In her address, "K-Bio: Beyond the Innovation Wave," CEO Kang outlined a new strategy to secure K-Bio's future leadership, identifying AI in Bio as the essential catalyst for growth.

She acknowledged that while K-Bio has become an innovation powerhouse built on its dominance in CDMO and biosimilars, future success requires a more targeted approach. The proposed strategy centers on two main objectives: mastering next-generation technologies like Cell & Gene Therapy (CGT) and accelerating development through AI.

Crucially, the plan also aims to overcome the "Death Valley" funding gap for innovative startups. To achieve these goals, Kang detailed four critical pillars for maintaining market leadership.

• Future of CDMO: Shift from a "capacity provider" to a "technology partner" by investing in new modalities (ADCs & CGT) and expanding the US footprint.

• Biosimilar Giants' Next Chapter: Transition into novel drugs via a "Biosimilar+" model and strategic open innovation, leveraging existing cash flow to de-risk development.

• Cultivating the Vanguard: Nurture the startup ecosystem by closing the "Death Valley" funding gap with crossover funds and creating fast-track regulatory pathways.

• The Diagnostic Frontier: Launch a national companion diagnostics (CDx) initiative to integrate the IVD industry for personalized precision health.

The event attracted venture capital and accelerator firms from the US, UK, and Japan, providing a critical platform for GAIA-BT to showcase its leadership while actively shaping the future direction and international strategy of the K-Bio industry.