What exactly is a TLO? Also, do its functions and procedures vary depending on the university?

TLO stands for Technology Licensing Organization and refers to organizations approved and certified by the government under the “Act on Promotion of Technology Transfer from Universities, etc.” (TLO Act), which came into effect in 1998. TLOs serve as intermediaries that contribute to society by licensing research outcomes—such as inventions and patents—from universities and public research institutions to private companies. Their primary roles include: (1) patenting and licensing, (2) promoting industry-academia collaboration. However, since specific procedures and regulations vary by university, please check with your affiliated university or research institution. Alternatively, if you provide us with the details, we will contact your affiliated institution and have the administrative office connect you with the appropriate representative there.