Korean Government Program Supports Vegalab's Research and Development

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Vegalab announced the acquisition of Ecowin, a Korea-based biopesticide company, in August of the previous year. Following this acquisition, Ecowin rebranded as Vegalab, with Kyung Bon Koo maintaining his position as CEO overseeing Korea operations. David Selakovic, President of Vegalab S.A., joined Koo to supervise developments at the newly acquired location.

Koo established Ecowin in 2008 to widespread recognition, securing the top award in Korea's new business competition shortly after its founding. The company achieved rapid growth specializing in all-natural biopesticides, which present environmental advantages over conventional chemical alternatives.

Ecowin's flagship product consists of live beneficial nematodes, measuring just 1mm in length. These organisms penetrate pests and release symbiotic bacteria that eliminate them within 24–48 hours while preserving environmental safety. Priced 20% below competitors, these nematodes achieved significant popularity throughout Korea and gained export markets in the United States, Africa, South America, China, and Southeast Asia.

The global biopesticide sector reached $3.6 billion in 2014, with projections indicating growth to $6.9 billion by 2019. This expansion prompted governments to establish stricter regulations; Korea specifically expanded their restricted chemical residue list from 240 to 330 items. Vegalab collaborates with governmental bodies to maintain product efficacy while adhering to all-natural biopesticide standards.

Korea administers national R&D subsidy initiatives, including the National Intellectual Properties and R&D Strategy Supporting Program (IP-R&D). Koo stated: "We joined the subsidy program to increase visibility on our patents" and develop future innovation strategies.

Through this government support, Ecowin doubled international sales and developed advanced culturing technology for nematode production, significantly expanding manufacturing capacity.