Certifications & Technical Data: The Core of Industrial Technology Protection

"Certifications and technical data," a key element of industrial technology protection and fair trade in Korea, play a major role under NET (New Excellent Technology) certification and the Subcontracting Act. NET certification involves objectively verifying a technology's performance through field demonstration testing, and it targets development-complete technologies that can be commercialized within two years. When applying for NET certification, you must submit one original and seven copies, along with documents such as a technical description and an ISO 9001 certificate.

Under the Subcontracting Act, technical data is defined as data related to manufacturing, repair, construction, or service methods that must be managed as confidential, or data that holds independent economic value. In particular, the technical data escrow system, designed to prevent technology leakage, is operated through the Korea Foundation for Cooperation of Large & Small Business, Rural Affairs, and plays an important role in proving the fact of development. A principal contractor that requests technical data must have a legitimate reason, such as identifying the cause of a product defect or joint development, and must receive the data in writing within the minimum necessary scope.

The statistic that 81% of technology leaks are caused by current or former insiders suggests that companies must pay even greater attention to technology protection. Accordingly, when drafting a non-disclosure agreement, small and medium-sized enterprises should clearly specify the name, scope, and term of use of the technical data.

Go to subpages:

• NET New Excellent Technology Certification Information
• Technical Data Escrow System Guide
• The Subcontracting Act and Technical Data Protection

FAQ

1. What documents are required to obtain NET certification?

2. When applying for NET certification, you need one original and seven copies of the New Excellent Technology certification application, a technical description, an ISO 9001 certificate, and similar documents.

3. What is the role of the technical data escrow system?

4. The technical data escrow system is a scheme for storing data with the Korea Foundation for Cooperation of Large & Small Business, Rural Affairs in order to prevent technology leakage and to prove the fact of technology development.

5. How are requests for technical data restricted under the Subcontracting Act?

6. When a principal contractor requests technical data, there must be a legitimate reason, and the data must be received in writing within the minimum necessary scope.

This page provides a clear understanding of technology protection and certification, and is organized so that related information can be easily found.