Samsung Bioepis

What if a technology giant known for phones and TVs decided to tackle one of the biggest challenges in healthcare: the soaring cost of biologic medicines? In 2012, Samsung Group did just that, establishing Samsung Bioepis as a joint venture with the American biotech firm, Biogen. Spearheaded by its first CEO, Christopher Ko, the mission was clear: develop and produce high-quality biosimilars to increase patient access to life-altering treatments. The company was founded in Incheon, South Korea, as a strategic partnership. Samsung brought its world-class manufacturing expertise, while Biogen provided deep biopharmaceutical experience and an initial investment. This combination allowed Samsung Bioepis to quickly build a robust pipeline of biosimilar candidates targeting major diseases in immunology, oncology, and ophthalmology. They focused on creating more affordable versions of complex, expensive biologic drugs, aiming to drive down healthcare costs and expand treatment options globally. The playbook worked. By partnering with major pharmaceutical companies like Biogen and Organon for commercialization, Samsung Bioepis gained access to extensive global sales and marketing networks. A pivotal moment arrived in 2022 when Samsung Biologics, the parent company, acquired Biogen's entire stake for $2.3 billion, making Samsung Bioepis a wholly owned subsidiary. This move granted the company greater autonomy and agility in its business operations. Today, Samsung Bioepis stands as a key player in the global biosimilar market, having successfully brought numerous products to patients worldwide and achieving record revenues.