Samsung Biologics announced Thursday that it has signed a memorandum of understanding with LigaChem Biosciences to collaborate on the development of antibody-drug conjugates, with plans to launch at least three joint projects this year.

ADCs, often referred to as guided missiles for their precision, use targeted antibodies to deliver cancer-fighting drugs directly to cancer cells, offering higher effectiveness than traditional therapies while minimizing harm to healthy cells.

Under the agreement, the two companies aim to combine their strengths to address the growing demand for effective cancer treatments and strengthen their positions in the rapidly expanding ADC market.

“Our partnership with LigaChem will enable us to deliver high-quality ADC medicines to patients worldwide,” said John Rim, CEO of Samsung Biologics. “By combining Samsung Biologics’ world-class manufacturing expertise with LigaChem Biosciences’ innovative research, we hope to drive advancements in ADC technology and contribute to the growth of the industry in Korea.”

LigaChem Biosciences CEO Kim Yong-zu expressed similar optimism. “This partnership will allow us to make significant investments in research and development, expanding our clinical pipeline to over 15 projects within the next five years. By working with Samsung Biologics, we can accelerate the development of our treatments and strengthen our presence in the global ADC market,” he said.

Samsung Biologics added that the joint projects will be carried out at its recently completed ADC-dedicated facility in Songdo, Incheon. The plant is equipped with a 500-liter conjugation reactor and advanced purification systems, making it well suited for ADC production.

To further bolster its competitiveness in the ADC sector, Samsung Biologics has also been actively investing in biotech firms such as Switzerland’s Araris Biotech and Korea’s AimedBio, both recognized for their advancements in ADC technology.

By Park Li-na (linapark@heraldcorp.com)