BALTIMORE, Maryland — November 19, 2025 — Nature Cell, a Korea-based biotechnology company specializing in stem cell therapies, has announced plans to establish a major U.S. campus in Baltimore City. The company will open a 100,000-square-foot manufacturing and research facility at Gaslight Square, located at 1401 Severn Street, with development completed in two phases through 2031. The project is expected to create approximately 500 new full-time jobs.
“Maryland continues to lead in life sciences innovation, and Nature Cell’s investment reinforces our position as a global hub for biotechnology and advanced medical research,” said Governor Wes Moore. “We are proud to welcome another leading international company to Maryland and to generate hundreds of high-quality jobs in Baltimore.”
Advancing Stem Cell Research and Biomanufacturing Capacity
The facility will be operated by Nature Cell America, a subsidiary focused initially on knee osteoarthritis and Alzheimer’s stem cell research, clinical trials, and biologic manufacturing. With expanded production capabilities, the company aims to produce up to one million annual doses of JointStem, an intra-articular stem cell therapy.
Nature Cell conducts global business across stem cell therapeutics, cosmetic science, and food and beverage research and manufacturing. The company will partner with Biostar, a Korean holding company specializing in stem cell innovation, to support U.S. expansion.
“Maryland offers a highly skilled talent pipeline and a collaborative research ecosystem anchored by leading institutions like Johns Hopkins,” said Dr. Jeong-Chan Ra, Chairman of Nature Cell. “This environment is critical to advancing stem cell therapeutics and establishing global leadership in this field.”
Baltimore Positioned for Growth in Life Sciences
Local leaders say the project strengthens Baltimore’s strategy to grow its biotech footprint by revitalizing historic industrial sites and attracting global R&D investment.
“This project connects Baltimore’s legacy of manufacturing with its rapidly growing life sciences sector,”said Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “This is the type of investment that defines our city’s next chapter.”
“This is another major milestone for the Carroll-Camden Industrial Area and a strong example of state-city collaboration,” said Otis Rolley, President & CEO, Baltimore Development Corporation.
Economic Incentives and Support
To support facility development, partners are advancing multiple funding and support measures:
- $4 million conditional loan under Advantage Maryland, pending approval
- $400,000 conditional loan from the Baltimore Development Corporation
- City assistance with expedited permitting and approvals
“Nature Cell will be a key addition to Maryland’s life sciences sector, offering new career opportunities and driving innovation,” said Maryland Department of Commerce Secretary Harry Coker, Jr.
About Nature Cell
Nature Cell is a global biotechnology company developing stem cell therapies and biologics for degenerative diseases, supported by research operations across Asia and the U.S. Nature Cell America will lead clinical development and manufacturing for U.S. operations.
About the Maryland Department of Commerce
The Maryland Department of Commerce supports statewide economic growth by advancing business expansion, workforce development, global partnerships and strategic investment initiatives.
