The Kochon Prize is an annual award presented by the Stop TB Partnership to recognise outstanding contributions to the fight against tuberculosis (TB). It is the largest award specifically devoted to TB, a US$ 65,000 prize that is presented by the Kochon Foundation, an independent Korean non-profit foundation.
The Kochon Prize was established in 2006 in honor of the late Chairman Chong-Kun Lee, founder of the Chong Kun Dang Pharmaceutical Corporation and Kochon Foundation. “Kochon” was his pen name. Throughout his career, Chairman Lee was committed to improving access to low-cost, life-saving antibiotics and anti-TB medicines.
The Kochon Prize highlights achievements that align with the mission to end TB by 2030, honoring efforts in areas such as:
- Research and innovation in TB prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and care
- Advocacy for TB awareness and global policy change
- Community engagement and leadership in combating TB
- Building capacity in resource-poor settings
- Advancing human rights and reducing stigma related to TB
The prize is awarded annually during high-level global health events. It not only acknowledges exceptional work but also inspires others to take part in the global fight to eliminate TB.