SK Bioscience's global research and process development center in Songdo, Incheon (SK Bioscience) SK Bioscience plans to expedite the late-stage clinical trial of its pneumococcus vaccine by leveraging a 300 billion won ($200 million) government fund.The vaccine arm of SK Group said Friday that its board of directors approved an ultra-low interest loan from the Korean government-backed National Growth Fund. The decision comes after the Fund Operations Committee nominated SK Bioscience as a recipient of the fund on Thursday.The National Growth Fund refers to a public-private combined financial initiative aimed at fostering strategic industries such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, biotechnology and secondary cells. It involves a citizen-participatory funding model that injects capital into future-oriented industries and major projects that promote global competitiveness.SK Bioscience will use the fund for the ongoing research and development of GBP410, a 21-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine candidate that showcases expanded serotype coverage in comparison to its previous commercialized versions.SK Bioscience said the vaccine candidate, developed in partnership with Sanofi, is in Phase 3 clinical trials. The company is targeting top-line data in the second half of 2027 as it advances plans for manufacturing and commercialization."The government's decision to support the project reflects acknowledgement of our R&D capabilities and global competence," said SK Bioscience CEO Ahn Jae-yong."Investment in key drug pipelines and infrastructure will be continued for South Korea's vaccine sovereignty and preparedness for future infectious diseases."