Bio Korea 2026 concluded successfully from April 28 to 30, centering on the theme of 'Innovation and Breakthroughs for a Better Future.' This 21st edition solidifies its role as a pivotal global collaboration platform within the biohealth industry, co-hosted by the Korea Health Industry Development Institute and Chungcheongbuk-do, with the Korea Pharmaceutical and Bio Association as a cooperating agency.

The record participation of 775 companies from 59 countries illustrates the growing global interest in the biohealth sector. A key program, business partnering, saw engagement from 669 companies across 34 nations, representing a significant increase over the previous year. Major pharmaceutical firms such as Eli Lilly, Roche, MSD, Boehringer Ingelheim, and Takeda have participated for three consecutive years, actively seeking domestic technologies to incorporate into their offerings.

Participation also included notable South Korean firms like Yuhan Corporation, SK Bioscience, Daewoong Pharmaceutical, and LG Chem, engaging in discussions focused on technology transfer, joint research, and investment synergies, with a total of 1,886 meetings secured. This collaboration model not only enriches the local innovation ecosystem but also reflects strategic positioning for global competitive advantage.

The exhibition featured 299 companies from 20 countries showcasing cutting-edge biotechnologies and products, enhancing international exchanges through national pavilions and focused public exhibitions on AI and regenerative medicine. Conference sessions spanning AI/digital health, open innovation, and investment trends encapsulated contemporary industry dialogues, notably, sessions on AI-based drug development involving global pharmaceutical players drew significant attention, emphasizing the integration of advanced technologies in the development pipeline.

Throughout the event, networking programs and media interviews facilitated active discussions on investment and collaboration opportunities, culminating in tangible outcomes such as joint research contracts arising from previous interactions. This ongoing cycle of engagement not only nurtures individual business relationships but also strengthens the overall ecosystem.

Director Cha Soon-do articulated the event's importance by stating, 'Bio Korea serves as a core platform that connects technology, industry, and global networks.' This underscores the event's role in fostering a future-oriented business exchange essential for the growth of the biohealth industry.