SK BioPharm (corporation) announced that it will invest about 1.100 trillion Korean won in the U.S. biotech firm Biohaven Bioscience Ireland Limited to develop a new brain‑tumor treatment called “Opakalim.” The drug is currently in clinical phases 2–3, and results from the high‑dose group are expected to be released in the second half of this year. SK BioPharm expects Opakalim to outperform existing treatments such as “Exscopri” in the U.S. market.
According to the disclosure documents, Opakalim is said to regulate neurotransmitters for brain‑tumor patients while providing a low rate of adverse reactions and side effects, making it more convenient. Researcher Kim Seon‑a noted that because “Exscopri’s” license will expire by October 2032, this contract reduces uncertainty and helps market entry. SK BioPharm currently holds two sets of clinical data and is expected to capture the market quickly with a similar level of effectiveness and safety as competitor “Azetukalner.”
The company valued Opakalim at 3.2199 trillion Korean won. Researcher Kim Yeon‑ji said that if this year’s first clinical results confirm superiority over Azetukalner, corporate valuation could rise significantly above current discount levels versus competitors. He also predicted that after several regulatory steps, approval and sale in 2029 will be possible, increasing U.S. brain‑tumor market share.
SK BioPharm is conveying a positive message to investors and patients through this investment. When additional clinical results and safety data are released, Opakalim’s effectiveness should become clearer, and the company’s chances of securing a leading position in the market will increase.