Merck announces over €300m investment in new bioprocessing center in South Korea

Merck has embarked on a monumental investment venture, injecting more than €300 million into the construction of a new Bioprocessing Production Center located in Daejeon, South Korea. This initiative stands as the most significant investment by Merck’s Life Science business sector in the Asia-Pacific region to date, underscoring the company’s dedication to expanding its operations in this rapidly evolving market. The project is expected to generate around 300 additional jobs by the end of 2028, marking a significant boost to the local economy and employment landscape.

The Asia-Pacific region, renowned for its cutting-edge research, manufacturing, and services in biotechnology, mRNA, and gene therapy, serves as a fertile ground for Merck’s latest expansion. Matthias Heinzel, Member of the Executive Board of Merck and CEO of Life Science, highlighted the strategic importance of this investment. He noted that enhancing Merck’s presence in the region aims to foster deeper collaborations and expedite the development of new therapies for patients worldwide.

The Daejeon facility is designed to assist biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies in process development, clinical research, and commercial manufacturing of biologics. These complex biological compounds are among the fastest-growing class of drugs and include vaccines, cell and gene therapies, and protein-based treatments like monoclonal antibodies.

Spanning 43,000 square meters, the state-of-the-art center will produce essential biotech products such as dry powder cell culture media, process liquids, pre-GMP small-scale manufacturing, and sterile sampling systems. It will also house advanced production capacities, a distribution center, and an automated warehouse, positioning it as a hub for bioprocessing excellence.

Merck’s longstanding commitment to fostering the growth of science and technology industries in South Korea is evident in its dynamic expansion since establishing Merck Korea in 1989. With over 1,700 employees across various sectors and 13 sites dedicated to production and R&D, Merck continues to play a pivotal role in the region’s biopharmaceutical landscape.

This new Bioprocessing Production Center is a key component of Merck’s multi-year investment program aimed at meeting the global demand for critical drugs and contributing significantly to public health. Alongside other projects announced since 2020, Merck’s investment in life science capacity and capabilities expansion in Europe, China, and the United States exceeds €2 billion, showcasing its global commitment to innovation and healthcare advancement.