Top 10 Liraglutide (Saxenda) Biosimilar Manufacturers in South Korea

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Written by Robert Gultig

6 January 2026

Top 10 Liraglutide (Saxenda) Biosimilar Manufacturers in South Korea

The biosimilar market in South Korea is rapidly evolving, driven by the increasing prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes, as well as the rising demand for cost-effective alternatives to branded biologics like Liraglutide (Saxenda). According to a recent report, the South Korean biosimilar market is expected to reach approximately $1.3 billion by 2025, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25%. With a robust regulatory framework and a strong emphasis on research and development, South Korea is poised to become a key player in the global biosimilars landscape.

1. Samsung Bioepis

Samsung Bioepis is a leading biopharmaceutical company in South Korea, specializing in the development of biosimilars. The company has a significant market share in the biosimilar sector, with over 4 million vials of biosimilars sold in 2022. Samsung Bioepis’s Liraglutide biosimilar is in advanced clinical trials, indicating strong potential for market entry.

2. Celltrion

Celltrion is recognized globally for its innovative biologics and biosimilars. The company reported revenues exceeding $1.6 billion in 2022, with its Liraglutide biosimilar projected to capture a substantial share of the diabetes treatment market. Celltrion’s commitment to R&D has positioned it as a strong competitor in the biosimilar arena.

3. Hanmi Pharmaceutical

Hanmi Pharmaceutical has made significant strides in the biosimilars market, with a reported 8% market share in the Liraglutide segment as of 2022. The company’s Liraglutide biosimilar is currently undergoing regulatory review, with expectations to launch within the next year, potentially impacting the treatment landscape for diabetes.

4. LG Chem

LG Chem is known for its diversified portfolio in the pharmaceutical sector, including biosimilars. The company achieved a production volume of over 2 million units of various biosimilars in 2022. Its Liraglutide biosimilar is expected to enter the market soon, enhancing its competitive edge in the diabetes treatment market.

5. Dong-A ST

Dong-A ST has been actively involved in the development of biosimilars, reporting a revenue growth of 12% in 2022. Their Liraglutide biosimilar is in the late stages of clinical testing, with plans for commercialization aimed at capitalizing on the growing demand for diabetes therapies in South Korea.

6. SK Biopharmaceuticals

SK Biopharmaceuticals is focused on bringing innovative therapies to market, including biosimilars. The company’s production capacity for biosimilars has reached over 1.5 million units annually, with a Liraglutide biosimilar expected to launch by the end of 2023, tapping into the growing diabetes treatment market.

7. Genexine

Genexine is making waves in the biosimilars space, with its Liraglutide biosimilar currently in Phase III trials. The company aims to leverage its strong R&D capabilities to penetrate the biosimilars market, which is projected to be worth $1.3 billion by 2025.

8. Green Cross Corporation

Green Cross Corporation has been expanding its biosimilar portfolio, reporting a production volume of 1 million units in 2022. The company is looking to introduce its Liraglutide biosimilar in the near future, aiming to meet the increasing demand for affordable diabetes treatments.

9. Medytox

Medytox is a dynamic player in the biosimilar market, with a 5% market share in the diabetic drug segment. The company’s Liraglutide biosimilar is under development, with anticipated entry into the market expected to coincide with regulatory approvals in 2024.

10. Ildong Pharmaceutical

Ildong Pharmaceutical has a growing presence in the biosimilars market, reporting total revenues of $500 million in 2022. The company is currently developing a Liraglutide biosimilar, with plans to initiate clinical trials in the coming year, positioning itself to capture a share of the burgeoning diabetes treatment market.

Insights and Trends

The South Korean biosimilar market is witnessing unprecedented growth, driven by a combination of regulatory support and an increasing prevalence of chronic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. The projected market size of $1.3 billion by 2025 underscores the potential for biosimilar manufacturers to capture significant market share. As competition intensifies, key players are focusing on innovative development and strategic partnerships to enhance their offerings. Additionally, the market is expected to see an influx of new entrants, further driving down prices and improving access to essential diabetes therapies. According to industry forecasts, the demand for biosimilars in South Korea could grow by approximately 30% annually, reflecting the ongoing shift towards cost-effective healthcare solutions.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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