» Application Procedure for Designs |
- Design Application Overview
Currently, the Design Protection System in the Republic of Korea is in transition from a Substantive Examination System (SES) to a Non-Substantive Examination System (NSES).
In response to the request of applicants to expedite the procedure for the registration of designs, KIPO revised the Act, introducing the Non-Substantive Examination System for some short-term life-cycle products as of March 1, 1998.
Under the NSES, applicants may receive the registration within 1 or 2 months from the filing date and enjoy new procedures such as Multiple Application and Post-Grant Opposition for their convenience.
Even though the applications under the NSES are not examined substantially, the effects of rights under the NSES are identical with those under the SES. The registered rights under the NSES which do not fulfill the requirements, will be cancelled or invalidated through the Post-Grant Opposition or Trial.