In recent years, numerous molecular targeted cancer drugs have been researched and developed in DPRK, yielding significant results in clinical practice. Among these, many have been formulated based on traditional Korean medicine, aligning with the physiological characteristics of Korean people. One of the dedicated researchers in this field is Dr. Kim Myong Sun, the head of the Anticancer Drug Research Laboratory at the Oncology Research Institute of the Medical Research Institute.
Dr. Kim graduated from the Department of Pharmacy at Pyongyang Medical University in the early 1990s and was assigned to the research institute at a time when cancer drug development in North Korea was still in its infancy. Reflecting on those days, she stated:
“When I first encountered the field of molecular targeted drug research, I was filled with ambition and confidence. However, as time passed, I realized that developing molecular targeted drugs using traditional Korean medicinal ingredients rather than chemical methods was not something that could be achieved with enthusiasm alone.
Moreover, as failures accumulated over the years, doubts began to emerge among my colleagues. Many questioned whether success was even possible.”
Amid these challenges, Dr. Kim found inspiration in her senior researchers, such as Dr. Ra Yong Ho. Despite their struggles, they remained optimistic, working tirelessly to develop new molecular targeted cancer drugs tailored to North Korean patients. Their unwavering dedication reinforced her determination to stay committed to her mission.
After nearly a decade of relentless research, Dr. Kim successfully developed a molecular targeted cancer drug called Neosam Anticancer Injection (너삼항암주사약). Her findings were scientifically consolidated in a research paper titled Development of a Protease Inhibitor for Cancer Growth Suppression (암증식과 관련한 조직프로테아제억제제개발에 대한 연구), which was presented at an international molecular oncology symposium in Russia in October 2008, earning top recognition.
Building on this achievement, she furthered her research to develop new and more effective molecular targeted cancer drugs. To enhance user convenience, she formulated a pill-based molecular targeted cancer drug called Hwanggumdurup Anticancer Tablets (황금두릅항암알약), known for their effectiveness in treating gastric cancer. She also developed Neosam-Berberine Anticancer Injection (너삼베르베린항암주사약), which has proven beneficial for lung cancer, pleural mesothelioma, and malignant pleural effusion.
These anticancer drugs are specifically designed to target and inhibit elements uniquely secreted by cancerous tissues and their surrounding environments, minimizing harm to healthy cells while effectively eradicating cancer cells. Currently, they are widely used for treating gastric cancer, liver cancer, breast cancer, bladder cancer, colorectal cancer, and malignant melanoma. Their advantages include minimal side effects and shorter treatment durations, offering hope to patients with severe illnesses.
Today, Dr. Kim continues to dedicate her wisdom and passion to the development of even more effective anticancer drugs, striving to improve treatment options and enhance the quality of life for cancer patients worldwide.
