The Korean Center for the Validation of Alternative Methods (KoCVAM), established in 2009 within the National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, is dedicated to developing and validating innovative approaches that can replace or reduce animal testing. By promoting the 3Rs principle and advancing New Approach Methods (NAMs), KoCVAM plays a key role in both national and international regulatory science.

KoCVAM has successfully contributed to the inclusion of four Korean-developed test methods in the OECD Test Guidelines and is currently developing further alternatives for medical device safety evaluation with the goal of international recognition. In addition to research, KoCVAM provides education and training programs, and collaborates with organizations such as the OECD, ISO, and ICH to ensure global alignment.

The center actively fosters collaboration between government, industry, and academia, creating opportunities for innovation and accelerating the adoption of humane science. Through these partnerships, KoCVAM ensures that its work has a lasting impact on both domestic policy and international practice.

Leadership:
Dr. Sangaeh Park, Director of KoCVAM and Toxicological Evaluation and Research Department, has led the review of biological equivalence and drug quality at MFDS, building extensive practical experience. She is currently dedicated to advancing the regulatory acceptance of new approach methodologies (NAMs), including organoids and omics technologies.