Merck Korea to Diversify its CSR Program

Merck Advanced Technologies, the Korean affiliate of Germany-based Merck KGaA, plans to expand its efforts to be closer to the Korean society by providing more supports for cultural activities as well as the research and development in Korean peninsula.

The oldest pharmaceutical and chemical company with more than 300 years of history is going to officially announce its plan for the corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the Westin Chosun, Seoul on November 30.

Dr. Hans-Ulrich Seidt, German Ambassador to Seoul, is also scheduled to attend the event in order to support the company's efforts to realize the social responsibility in the country.

Merck Korea is one of companies which contribute to education, health, safety and environmental are in Korea as a responsible corporate citizen.

As a part of its efforts for CSR, the company has already implemented a variety of programs including Merck Young Scientist Award, first established in the United States in order to discover and encourage young talents.

It is in operation in such countries as Australia, Japan, Malaysia and the Philippines to name a few.

Merck Korea has introduced the award this year. It said that the award would encourage young scientists to focus on their research and bring along future star researchers.

The firm's CEO Juergen Koenig pointed out that the award would contribute for both Merck and young researchers.

"I do strongly believe we are an innovative company. We need to work on scientists. We will always work on young scientists,'' said Koenig at the awarding ceremony last month.

"I think there are not enough awards in Korea for young scientists. If we keep promoting these kind of awards, more people will deliver papers; more people will compete,'' he said.

The modern firm was established in 1891 and now employs about 33,000 staff in 60 countries; but its roots date back to 1668 and its founder Friedrich Jacob Merck.

The German-based company tapped into the Korean market in 1989 and is now operating in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries.

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