SEOUL, June 28 (UPI) -- A former Seoul National University scientist who fabricated cloning data reportedly will continue stem-cell research, supported by private investors.
Disgraced scientist Hwang Woo-suk will resume cloning research next week with his former colleagues, according to Hwang's lawyer, Lee Geon-haeng.
"Hwang has already established his lab in Seoul, which will open on July 4 or 5," Lee told the Korea Times. He said private investors are providing Hwang with financial assistance without any conditions.
Hwang, a former Seoul National University professor, was touted as the scientific national treasure of Korea after he claimed to have cloned patient-specific stem cells last year -- a step that would possibly lead to cures for such diseases as diabetes and Alzheimer's.
But, after his research appeared in the journal Science last May, it was learned the claims were based on fabricated data. Hwang was fired by Seoul National University and has since been indicted for allegedly misusing billions of won given to him by the public and private donors, the Korea Times said.
In a related development, Seoul National University Tuesday announced it will apply for patents in 10 countries on Hwang's embryonic stem-cell technologies.
