SK bioscience expands AI use in vaccine production

[Financial News] SK bioscience is applying artificial intelligence (AI) to its flu vaccine production process and expanding its use to areas including research and development and quality. The company is pursuing yield improvements through production data analysis and building a company-wide AI system.
On the 23rd, SK bioscience presented examples of AI use in vaccine production and its plans for the future at the AI-Bio New Drug Hub Global Summit in Incheon (ABDD Summit 2026 in Incheon), held at INSPIRE Entertainment Resort on Yeongjong Island, Incheon. 
SK bioscience has implemented an AI-based “Yield Guide Agent” in the flu vaccine production process at its Andong L House facility. The system analyzes production data to identify factors that affect yield and recommends appropriate process operating conditions. However, key decisions are reviewed and approved by on-site personnel, combining AI analysis with workers’ judgment.
SK bioscience is also expanding the scope of its AI use. In research and development, AI will support the search and analysis of research materials; in clinical and regulatory affairs, the company plans to use it to streamline relevant procedures. It is also pursuing ways to use AI in quality operations, including document preparation and responses to inspections.
To this end, the company is also building “AI Brain,” a company-wide AI system connecting research and development with production and supply. It has been laying the groundwork for digital transformation since 2021. In 2027–2028, it plans to expand practical AI support functions, and from 2029, to step up implementation in line with the goals of each business area.
Lee Yong, head of the AX Planning Team at SK bioscience, who delivered the presentation that day, said, “We are expanding the scope of AI use beyond production sites to research and development, clinical and regulatory affairs, and quality. Alongside pursuing projects using our own capabilities, we are working with global partners such as the Gates Foundation and PATH.” The team leader added, “Going forward, we plan to connect the data and knowledge of each business area and create an environment where AI and people work together.”

[email protected] Sang-hee Jeong Reporter