The National Pathogen Resource Bank, operated by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) and the National Institute of Health, plays a crucial role in collecting, managing, and distributing pathogen resources. These resources, which include bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa, are vital for infectious disease research and the advancement of the healthcare industry. The Bank’s activities are governed by legislation promoting the collection, management, and utilization of pathogen resources with practical or potential value for medical research and industry. In 2025, the Bank published its annual report detailing the distribution trends and current status of pathogen resources.
A total of 2,701 strains across 273 species were distributed to 291 institutions in 2025. The recipients included private companies (47%), universities and nonprofit organizations (28%), and national/public research institutions (25%). Notably, fungal resource distribution increased by 172.5% compared to the previous year, and the most distributed virus was the COVID-19 virus, with 141 strains. The main purposes for resource utilization were diagnostic technology research (38%), technology and product development (22%), and vaccine and therapeutic research (18%).
Distribution for technology and product development research saw a significant increase of 110.1% over 2024, indicating a growing trend in industrial application. The most commonly distributed strains were Escherichia coli (280), Klebsiella pneumoniae (209), Salmonella (180), COVID-19 virus (141), and influenza virus (117). The COVID-19 virus strains included JN.1, A, KP.3, LP.8.1, XBB.1.5, and KP.2. The Bank also reported 19 published papers and 8 patents resulting from the use of these resources. Applications for resource distribution can be submitted online via the Bank’s website or the Disease Control Integrated Management System.
Frequently asked questions include how to apply for pathogen resources and what information is required. Applications are made online, and applicants must provide personal details, intended use, pathogen risk group, and biosafety information. Another common question concerns the impact of the program: the Bank supports research infrastructure expansion and aims to enhance pharmaceutical and medical industry R&D, ultimately contributing to public health improvement. The Bank continues to develop valuable resources and strengthen domestic and international cooperation to meet demand and support research.
Metaqsol opinion: The National Pathogen Resource Bank’s 2025 report highlights a significant expansion in resource distribution, particularly for technology and product development. The increased allocation to private and public institutions, along with notable growth in fungal and COVID-19 virus strains, underscores the Bank’s strategic role in supporting healthcare research and industry. The transparent application process and ongoing collaboration efforts are likely to further enhance South Korea’s research infrastructure and contribute to improved public health outcomes.