A large number of Korea's pharmaceutical and bio companies are set to participate in BIO International Convention 2026 (BIO USA 2026), the world's premier global bio partnering event. This year's BIO USA 2026 runs from June 22–25 at the San Diego Convention Center, with approximately 250 Korean companies expected to attend.
Large corporations such as Samsung Biologics, Celltrion, and Lotte Biologics will attend alongside listed companies including ABL Bio, SK Biopharmaceuticals, GI Innovation, and Oncononic Therapeutics, as well as non-listed companies including Ilias Biologics, RudaCure, Elicigen, Cellias, and C&Cure.
For non-listed companies, global validation of platform technologies and early-stage candidates is key. Ilias Biologics will present its exosome-based platform, RudaCure its ion channel-based drug development platform, Elicigen its AAV-based gene therapy for ophthalmic diseases, and Cellias its retinal regeneration platform.
Industry insiders note that BD activities at BIO USA start not with booking as many meetings as possible, but with pre-selecting companies that are genuinely likely to be interested. Global pharma companies evaluate not only a technology's scientific merit but also its fit with internal portfolios, clinical differentiation, proof-of-concept feasibility, development risk, and the practicality of deal structures.
BIO USA outcomes are often determined not on the exhibition floor but in the follow-up process afterward. It is important to immediately summarize a partner's level of interest, materials requested, concerns, and internal review potential — then deliver tailored materials within one week.