South Korean Tech Giants Dominate US Patent Landscape
Samsung Electronics has secured the top spot in US patent acquisitions for the fourth consecutive year, according to a recent report by IFI Claims. This achievement, alongside strong showings from fellow South Korean companies like SK Hynix and LG, underscores the growing strength of the nation’s technology sector.
A Surge in Korean Innovation
In 2025, a total of 323,272 patents were registered in the US. Samsung Electronics led the pack with 7,054 patents, an 11% increase from the previous year. This represents over 2% of all patents registered. Samsung Display followed closely in 5th place with 2,859 patents, climbing two positions from the prior year. LG Electronics also made the top 10, securing the 10th position with 2,284 patents, even as LG Display ranked within the top 30 with 932 patents.
SK Hynix registered 844 patents, placing it 37th overall. LG Energy Solution experienced the most significant jump in rankings, climbing 22 places to 27th with a 50% increase in patent filings, reaching 981 patents.
Automotive and Energy Sectors Gain Momentum
South Korean automotive manufacturers are also increasing their focus on innovation. Hyundai Motor rose three spots to 16th place with 1,631 patents, and Kia climbed five positions to 17th with 1,606 patents. This reflects the industry’s growing investment in research and development.
Shifting Global Tech Landscape
The rise of Asian companies in the US patent landscape highlights a broader shift in technological innovation. Approximately 60% of all patents registered in the US now come from Asian companies. This indicates a move away from Western dominance in technology.
IBM’s Strategic Shift and Declining Patent Output
Interestingly, IBM, a former leader in US patent filings for 29 consecutive years, fell outside the top 10, landing in 11th place. This decline is attributed to a strategic shift towards a more selective patent filing policy.
Growth in Green Tech Patents
The report also revealed a 9% decrease in overall US patent applications compared to the previous year, reaching the lowest level since 2019. However, certain areas experienced significant growth, particularly those related to green technologies. Patents in battery cell operation, electrolysis, and recycling saw rapid increases, indicating a growing focus on energy transition research and development.
Did you know?
South Korea’s total patent registrations increased by 8% in the US, reaching 26,147 in 2025.
Pro Tip:
Companies are increasingly focusing on patent portfolios not just for defensive purposes, but also as valuable assets for licensing and revenue generation.
FAQ
Q: Which company received the most US patents in 2025?
A: Samsung Electronics received the most US patents in 2025, with a total of 7,054.
Q: What is driving the increase in patents from Asian companies?
A: Increased investment in research and development, coupled with a strategic focus on innovation, is driving the increase in patents from Asian companies.
Q: Which sector saw the fastest growth in patent filings?
A: Green technologies, including battery cell operation, electrolysis, and recycling, experienced the fastest growth in patent filings.
Q: Why did IBM’s patent ranking decline?
A: IBM adopted a more selective patent filing policy, resulting in a decrease in the number of patents registered.
Explore more insights into global technology trends on the IFI Claims website.
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