70. The representative of Korea expressed appreciation for the Chairperson's proposal during the informal consultations to draw up a list of topics to facilitate discussion on the subject. He stated that he would certainly examine its merits carefully and would consult with his capital in light of discussions the Council had had so far. Briefly touching upon some of the topics mentioned by the Chairperson, he said on the subject of patentability of life forms that Korea was comfortable with the present level of protection described in Article 27.3(b). On the subject of the relationship between the CBD and the TRIPS Agreement, Korea was basically of the view that intellectual property rights should and could maintain a mutually supportive relationship with biodiversity for sustainable development. The concept of traditional knowledge was yet to be developed further and defined and, to the extent that it was known, it varied from country to country. In this respect, WIPO would soon launch exploratory and analytical work. Therefore, it would be appropriate to further examine the relationship between intellectual property and the protection of traditional knowledge after the concept had been defined and an acceptable scope had been developed at the international level.
