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As we usher in the promising year of 2025, the Year of the Blue Snake (乙巳年), I extend my heartfelt New Year greetings to all of you. I would also like to express my profound gratitude to the 23rd Executive Board members and our staff for their tireless efforts in advancing our society over the past year.
The Korean Society of Otorhinolaryngology, with its proud 78-year history and tradition, has long been at the forefront of Korea's medical field. The 23rd Executive Board has strived to carry on this legacy while preparing diligently for the future, operating under the slogan "Embrace the History, Envision the Future." Let me briefly report on the outcomes of the initiatives introduced last year and outline the plans to be implemented this year.
1. Preserving our residency quota system amidst government policy changes
Our society will continue to safeguard the residency quota system we have developed, ensuring our opinions are fully reflected in government-led policy decisions. Last year, the Ministry of Health and Welfare adjusted the distribution ratio of residency quotas from the previous 6:4 (metropolitan vs. non-metropolitan areas) to 5.5:4.5, and aimed for a 5:5 ratio in 2025. Our society strongly opposed this decision, and as a result, the 5.5:4.5 distribution was maintained, averting further disruption in metropolitan training hospitals. This year, the Training Committee will continue to engage closely with government policies, listen to training hospitals, and establish the most appropriate residency allocation principles.
2. Celebrating the 10th anniversary of ICORL
Our international academic conference, ICORL (International Congress of ORL-HNS), distinguishes us among Asian societies by leading international academic exchanges and providing early access to the latest knowledge. This year marks the 10th anniversary of ICORL, and under the leadership of Congress Chair Dr. Young-Ik Son, we will host a conference featuring prominent speakers from over ten countries and organizations, including Europe, Thailand, Turkiye, Denmark, ASEAN, Taiwan, Canada, Japan, China, and Mexico, alongside representatives from AAO-HNSF, the Triological Society, and KAOS. We will also welcome special guests such as Professor Samuel H. Selesnick, who has showcased our society's achievements in The Laryngoscope.
Additionally, we aim to expand our academic network by signing an MOU with the Emirates Otorhinolaryngology Congress and hosting international fellows who previously trained in Korea. This conference will also promote our international journal, Clinical and Experimental Otorhinolaryngology (CEO), showcasing its advancements and positioning it as a leading global journal.
3. Strengthening the Global Medical initiative
Through Global Medical (https://www.globalmedical.co.kr/), we aim to assist countries in need, promote international academic exchange, and advance healthcare worldwide. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the fellowship program for international trainees has thrived, with six fellows annually learning from Korea’s advanced medical systems. We have also conducted medical volunteer missions in collaboration with organizations like Gangnam Welfare Foundation and Global Hansen Mission. This year, we plan to extend our efforts to Laos, continuing our commitment to humanitarian medical outreach.
4. Enhancing collaboration with the Korean Association of Otorhinolaryngologists
Our close cooperation with the Korean Association of Otorhinolaryngologists remains a source of pride and inspiration. Building on our strong relationship, we signed an MOU in September to further strengthen our collaborative efforts, ensuring mutual growth and preparation for the future.
5. Advocating for members' rights and interests
The rapidly changing healthcare insurance policies pose significant challenges to otorhinolaryngology. Initiatives like the restructuring of tertiary hospitals and limitations on non-reimbursable services threaten our field's position. The society will actively address these issues by reinforcing advocacy efforts, identifying new medical technologies, and protecting members’ interests. Furthermore, we will lead initiatives such as workshops on upper respiratory tract infections and the appropriate use of antibiotics to enhance public understanding of our pivotal role in managing respiratory diseases.
2024 was a challenging year for both the public and the medical community in Korea. We hope for a swift resolution to the ongoing disputes between the medical community and the government, enabling young doctors to continue their training without further delays. Despite the setbacks, we believe there is still room for recovery and advancement.
Let us make 2025 a year of new beginnings and adaptability, filled with wisdom to navigate changes in our environment. May your families experience hope and happiness throughout the year. Thank you for your dedication to improving public health during these turbulent times. Wishing you continued health and success in the New Year.
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| January, 2025 |
| Jun Ho Lee |
| Chairman of the Korean Society of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery |
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