October 29, 2024 – Macrogen, a global leader in genomic analysis, announced that its consortium with DNA Link, Theragen Bio, and CG invites has been selected as the preferred bidder for the genomic data production in the "National Integrated Bio Big Data Project." This initiative, backed by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the Ministry of Science and ICT, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, and the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, and commissioned by the Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), aims to amass a comprehensive bio big data resource.
The project, valued at KRW 606.5 billion, is set to establish bio big data for approximately 770,000 Korean citizens by 2028, eventually reaching 1 million by 2032. This vast dataset will support new drug and medical device development, disease prevention, and personalized medicine, opening resources to researchers in medicine, academia, and industry worldwide.
As a government-led R&D initiative, the National Integrated Bio Big Data Project will integrate clinical, genomic, and omics data, along with public and personal health data, creating Korea’s largest bio big data resource. This landmark project represents a major milestone for South Korea’s genomic solutions market. Following successful completion of the first and second pilot phases, Macrogen has been selected as the preferred bidder for producing genomic and tranomic data and conducting preliminary research tasks.
With 27 years of expertise in genomic analysis, including extensive experience in research projects, data production, quality control, and security systems, Macrogen achieved top marks in the technical uations. Upon final selection as a main contractor, Macrogen will play a critical role, producing and analyzing 145,952 whole-genome sequencing (WGS) datasets and 2,800 tranomic (mRNA) datasets.
Recently, Macrogen has advanced genetic studies globally, including partnerships like the Singapore precision medicine project (PRECISE) and in June received approval from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency to open Korea's first bio bank as an a non-medical institution.
The National Integrated Bio Big Data Project, led by key ministries and the KRIBB, marks a significant turning point in Korea’s genomic analysis industry. With similar bio big data projects underway in countries like the UK, the US, and Japan, and the easing of regulations on DTC (Direct-to-Consumer) genetic testing, the significance of genomic data is growing. This project is anticipated to impact the bio-healthcare industry broadly and powerfully.
Lee Eung Ryong, Head of Macrogen’s Genome Business Unit, stated, "Macrogen’s selection as the preferred bidder for Korea’s largest bio big data project affirms our expertise and technical capabilities in genomic analysis. We are committed to preparing for this project with dedication, leading the development of Korean bio big data and advancing precision medicine to enhance public health."