HLB Co., Ltd. entered into a contract to acquire 18.4% stake in KNOTUS Co.,Ltd from Jeong In-seong and Kim Do-hyung for KRW 56.2 billion.

HLB bioStep Co Ltd, formerly KNOTUS Co Ltd, is a Korea-based company mainly engaged in non-clinical trial business. The Company operates through three segments. The Non-clinical Test Consignment Agency Business segment conducts non-clinical is mainly engaged in the test on newly developed substances such as new drugs ,and tests the efficacy and pharmacodynamics of substances. In addition, this segment is engaged in the test of the safety of substances. The Bioinfra Business segment is engaged in animal laboratory design, construction, and maintenance. In addition, this segment provides equipment delivery. The Pet Medical Business segment is engaged in the development of veterinary medicine and the sale of companion animal products.