[Sponsored Report] Merck Korea funds researchers, promotes artists

Merck Korea believes that its duty as a global pharmaceuticals company is to make the world a healthier place. The company believes that not only the body but also a healthier culture and environment are needed to enhance the overall health conditions of the human race.

For the improvement of physical health, the company inspires and sponsors scientists who work hard to fight against deadly illnesses by awarding them for their research. The Merck Serono Scientific Award is given to researches who study colorectal cancer, head and neck cancer and reproductive medicine. Each year, two to three research papers are chosen from each category and scientists are given additional cash prizes for their work.

The company also tries to promote the growth of Korean art. From 2009, Merck Korea has been introducing artwork from local artists by printing them onto the company’s calendars. The practice began in Germany at Merck’s headquarters and its creative approach has reached Korea. The company hopes to broaden the fandom of Korean art and hence establish a foundation to help develop the country’s visual art.

The first calendar in 2010 carried the works of Oh In-Soon, who is famous for her use of vivid-colored images.

This year’s calendar includes the works of Hong Ji-Yeon, who draws modernized folk paintings. Merck Korea will continue to introduce outstanding works from Korean artists on its calendars and will release them to the international market.

By Kim Young-shin [yskim11@joongang.co.kr]