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As we welcome the Year of the Red Horse in 2026, I am honored to extend my warmest greetings to you on the occasion of the inauguration of the 24th Executive Board of our Society.
First, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the 24th Chairman, Pf. Jun Ho Lee, and the previous 24th Executive Board members for their unwavering dedication and service in guiding our Society through the difficult period of prolonged healthcare policy crisis over the past two years.
As we celebrate our 79th anniversary, our Society stands at an important turning point. We are proud of our long history of leadership in Korean medicine, yet we now face significant changes that call for a clear new direction and practical action.
The 24th Executive Board is committed to bringing all members together as one community. This commitment is reflected in our new slogan, "ENTians! As One.”
We will actively listen through multiple channels and ensure that the voice of our members are meaningfully reflected in our decision-making processes.
The 24th Executive Board will focus on the following five key initiatives during our term.
1. Strengthening the Role of Otorhinolaryngology in Essential Medical Care
Our specialty plays a vital part in Korea’s healthcare system, especially as the government works to strengthen essential medical services and update reimbursement systems. For many years, the Korean Society of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery has worked to highlight the importance of our field, and this role is now widely respected across the country.
To ensure the ENT healthcare system stays strong and effective, the 24th Executive Board will:
- Improve communication with the government and National Assembly
- Build strong, evidence-based policy resources
- Actively support essential healthcare policies and insurance updates
- Protect professional standards and education during changes in hospital systems
2. Expanding International Engagement through ICORL
Since its beginning in 2014, the International Congress of ORL (ICORL) has grown into an important global academic meeting, helping our Society connect with professional communities around the world. Through formal partnerships with 13 international societies, the ICORL has expanded scientific programs and training opportunities.
By sharing Korea’s academic strengths and cutting edge technology, we aim to raise the global profile of both our Society and our members, helping us all grow as international leaders in ENT.
3. Bringing ENT Closer to the Public
Past executive boards have led public projects such as the Youth Hearing Loss Prevention Program, Evidence-Based Health Information Committee, and Ear Nose Throat TV. Continuing this work, the 24th Executive Board will focus on public campaigns related to infectious diseases and respiratory health, share clear and practical health information, improve digital communication, and support medical volunteer activities at home and abroad. Through these efforts, we want the public to see otorhinolaryngology as a trusted and first-choice specialty.
4. Improving Training and Education
Resident training programs have been affected by recent conflicts, and restoring strong education for the next generation is crucial. We will improve the training system so young doctors become skilled, ethical specialists with a strong connection to our Society. Supervised clinical training and a comprehensive online education platform will help ensure that key medical knowledge is easy to access and keep up to date.
The 24th Executive Board will:
- Update educational content to reflect new medical trends
- Introduce AI- and simulation-based training
- Create standardized education programs linked to continuing medical education
5. Strengthening Collaboration with Regional and Subspecialty Societies
Our Society has long worked closely with regional medical associations and subspecialty societies under the shared belief that "We are One.”
Our subspecialty partners include the Korean Otological Society, Korean Rhinologic Society, Korean Society of Head and Neck Surgery, Korean Audiological Society, Korean Bronchoesophageal Society, Korean Society of Laryngology, Phoniatrics and Logopedics, Korean Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and the Korean Society of Sleep and Breathing.
These strong partnerships support academic growth and improve patient care. We will continue to expand shared educational opportunities and strengthen long-term collaboration through enhanced regional education programs and cooperative networks across specialties.
2026 is an important time for us to overcome past conflicts and move forward together in unity. With your continued support, we will work to strengthen our Society and ensure that being a member of the Korean Society of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery remains a true source of pride.
Over the past 79 years, our Society has overcome many challenges through the wisdom and dedication of those who came before us. Building on this strong foundation, the 24th Executive Board will carry out its responsibilities with humility, guided by the principles of preserving tradition, preparing for the future, growing together with our members.
I wish you and your families good health and happiness in the coming year, and I look forward to your active engagement and support over the next two years.
Thank you.
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