Intellectual Property Laws at North Korea
North Korea has established a legal framework for the protection of intellectual property (IP) rights, encompassing patents, trademarks, copyrights, industrial designs, and related rights. The country is a member of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and has acceded to several key international treaties, including the Paris Convention and the Berne Convention.
Key IP Laws in North Korea
1. Patent Law
Law on Inventions This law governs patents and utility models in North Kore. It was amended in 2021 to update provisions related to patent protection.
2. Trademark Law
Korean Trademark Act (KTA) The primary legislation for trademark registration and protection in North Kore. It follows a 'first-to-file' system and is aligned with the Madrid Agreement and *Madrid Protocol.
3. Copyright Law
Copyright Act of 2001 This law provides protection for literary, dramatic, musical, artistic, and cinematographic work. It was amended in 2006 to extend the duration of protection to 50 years after the author's death.
4. Industrial Design Law
Law on Industrial Designs Governs the protection of the aesthetic aspects of product. The law was amended in 2011 to update provisions related to industrial design protection.
5. Geographical Indications Law
Law on Appellations of Origin Adopted in 2003, this law provides protection for geographical indications, ensuring that products are accurately labelled to reflect their origin.
🌐 International Treaties and Memberships
*WIPO Membership: North Korea became a member of WIPO on August 17, 194.
*Paris Convention: North Korea is a signatory to the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property.
*Berne Convention: North Korea is a member of the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Wors.
🛡️ *IP Enforcement and Challenges
While North Korea has established a legal framework for IP protection, enforcement remains a significant challenge. There is limited transparency regarding the functioning of IP offices and the enforcement of IP right. The country's isolation and strict control over information flow further complicate the effective implementation of IP laws.
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