Peruvian inventors make history in South Korea, winning 306 medals at major technology fair

Peruvian inventors have made history at the 19th Korea International Women's Invention Exposition (KIWIE 2026) in South Korea, securing an impressive 306 medals and two special awards. This achievement solidifies Peru's reputation as a powerhouse of innovation on the international stage.

The Peruvian delegation, coordinated by Indecopi, was the most recognized at the event, which featured participants from 19 countries. They earned 120 gold medals, 132 silver, and 54 bronze. Their 452 inventions accounted for 67.7% of all projects submitted, underscoring Peru's dominant presence at this prominent exhibition for female inventors.

The participating Peruvian institutions included 20 universities, a research institute, an industrial training institute, and two companies. Their innovations spanned critical sectors such as health, environmental care, and industry. Notably, the Scientific University of the South received a special award from the Ministry of Intellectual Property for developing a disposable anatomical vaginal speculum with an integrated lidocaine delivery system designed to make gynecological exams more comfortable. Additionally, the National Hermilio Valdizán University was honored with a special award from Dongduk Women's University for an artificial intelligence-based system that analyzes dental X-rays to aid in odontological diagnoses.

Among the top-performing universities, the National San Luis Gonzaga University led with 24 gold medals, followed closely by the Private University of the Norte with 23 gold medals. These institutions also presented the highest number of inventions, with 57 and 48 respectively. This marks Peru's eighth consecutive year participating in KIWIE, maintaining its status as the only Latin American country with continuous involvement in this significant international event.