Several innovation-based Korean bioventures, including GI Innovation, S.Biomedics and Curocell, have managed to launch IPOs in 2023 despite prolonged depressed market sentiment and tougher stock exchange rules.

Restructuring Edition: OrbiMed/Foresite and Concentra responded quickly after Theseus implemented a 72% workforce reduction and began a search for strategic alternatives despite having $225.4m in cash. REGENXBIO, Novavax and Lyell also revealed job cuts despite large cash stockpiles.

Recent sizable out-licensing deals with global big pharma firms are raising hopes of a recovery in Korean biopharma alliances and also point to possible changes in deal structures towards international norms.

Private Company Edition: Revelation Partners amassed $608m, Bioluminescence Ventures emerged with $477m and Abingworth raised $356m for late-stage programs. In recent financings, MapLight closed a $225m series C round while Triveni launched with $92m and Gate garnered $60m in series A rounds.