Scrip takes a look back at the milestone events in the South Korean pharma and biotech industry in 2021 and ahead at what's in store for the coming year, which has kicked off with speculation around a major potential M&A deal.

Multiple non-vaccine options for COVID-19 continue to progress, with promising new clinical results for Sorrento's small molecule drug and a supplementary approval in Japan for Chugai's antibody combo. Meanwhile, China's CRDC has in-licensed technology for Ligand to apply to an oral antiviral it is developing. Meanwhile, SK Biosciences' novel nanoparticle vaccine is positive in early trials.

Sun Pharma's senior leadership talks to Scrip about the focus in India on differentiated therapies; the challenges of holding adequate 'strategic inventory' amid waves of the pandemic; and where things stand for active pharmaceutical ingredients. India’s top ranked drug firm is apparently not averse to a role in COVID-19 vaccine distribution, either.

Mergers and acquisitions are set to gain momentum in South Korea as firms outside the sector seek new growth engines and more open-minded biopharma companies seek rapid growth and globalization.