Utilizing a database of around 16 million patents from
across the globe, LexisNexis selects and presents 100 top global innovators
from various areas, including IT, electronics, automobiles, and consumables.
KT&G, recognized for its e-cigarette technology innovation, became the only
consumable dealer in Korea to mark its name on the top 100 list.
In particular, LexisNexis held KT&G in high regard
for strengthening the fundamental competitiveness in its next-generation
products (NGP) through systematic IP management. The company filed applications
for 2,977 patents in 2024 alone, reaching intellectual property rights for
approximately 14,400 cases in total as of 2024. Roughly 11,000 cases have been approved overseas, showcasing KT&G’s
focus on sharpening its competitive edge in technology innovation based on
intellectual properties.
Leveraging this advantage in IP, KT&G is empowering
its leadership in the domestic market through “lil,” an e-cigarette device that
applies the company’s unique, innovative technology, along with exclusive
sticks.
The company demonstrated this dominance in Korea by
maintaining the market lead with a 46% share in the NGP-exclusive stick sector.
In terms of overseas performance, KT&G showcased the e-cigarette “lil” to
34 countries through a strategic partnership with Philip Morris International
(PMI). These efforts allowed the company to achieve “triple growth”
year-over-year in revenue, business profits, and sales volume for its NGP
business in and out of Korea.
“lil ABLE 2.0,” released by applying KT&G’s very own
high-tech formula, also garnered a favorable response from consumers. The
product features a three-in-one system, allowing the user to choose between
Real, Granular, and Vapor flavor sticks in a single device, as well as applying
two smoking modes: Balance and Classic. Convenient functions such as pause and
rapid charging are also built into the product, receiving positive feedback by
catering to the diverse tastes of consumers.
A
KT&G representative stated, “We’ve consistently developed and released NGPs
tailored to customer needs through swift response to the next-generation
cigarette market and systematic IP management. We’ll continue to innovate in
all areas of our NGP sector and showcase products in line with consumer demand
to further establish our leadership in the market.”
(Photo) KT&G
(President Bang Kyung-man) was selected as a “Top 100 Global Innovator” by LexisNexis on April 4, winning the
title for three consecutive years since 2023.
KT&G NGP Development Center
Director Han Jeong-ho (right) and LexisNexis Sales Representative Ahn Hyung-jin
(left) taking a commemorative photograph at the awards ceremony.
