Key Facts
• Eli Lilly plans to launch obesity drug Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) in South Korea by mid-August 2025.
• Initial dose (2.5 mg) priced at approximately 280,000 KRW, 25% cheaper than competitor Wegovy.
• Maintenance dose (5 mg) priced below 370,000 KRW; higher doses (7.5 mg, 10 mg) exceed Wegovy’s price.
• Mounjaro requires four pens per month, unlike Wegovy’s single pen for four weeks.
• Distribution involves 40–50 domestic companies, avoiding exclusive contracts.
• Wegovy is exclusively distributed by foreign-based Julphar Pharma Korea.
• Eli Lilly aims for rapid, sustainable nationwide supply through an extensive distribution network.
Summary
Eli Lilly is set to introduce its obesity treatment drug Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) to the South Korean market in August 2025, intensifying competition with Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy (Semaglutide). Mounjaro’s pricing strategy undercuts Wegovy by 25% for initial and maintenance doses, though higher doses surpass Wegovy’s cost. Unlike Wegovy’s single-pen monthly usage, Mounjaro requires four pens per month. Distribution strategies also differ, with Mounjaro leveraging a broad network of 40–50 domestic companies, while Wegovy relies on exclusive distribution by Julphar Pharma Korea. Eli Lilly emphasizes its commitment to ensuring rapid and sustainable access for patients nationwide.
