Dear Members of the Korean Society of Echocardiography,
Greetings! The hopeful dawn of the New Year 2026, the year of the Fire Horse, has arrived.
I would like to express my deepest respect and gratitude to all members who have steadfastly maintained their positions in clinical practice and research despite the unprecedentedly challenging medical environment of the past year, and who have dedicated themselves to the development of our society. I sincerely wish that health and happiness will always fill your homes and workplaces throughout this year.
Looking back on the more than 30 years of our society's journey, I am filled with deep emotion. Until echocardiography became established as an essential examination for cardiovascular diseases, our society has played a leading role across all areas of education, research, and promotion. Thanks to these efforts, the Korean Society of Echocardiography now stands tall as an authoritative academic organization recognized not only domestically but also globally. Once again, I bow my head in gratitude, as today's growth was made possible by the noble dedication of our predecessors and the passionate enthusiasm of all members, even in a harsh environment.
Dear Members,
The medical-government conflict that plunged the medical community into great turmoil over the past year appears to have concluded on the surface. However, the fundamental problems remain unresolved, and the chronic vulnerabilities of our healthcare system have been laid bare. The reality we will face ahead will certainly not be easy. However, as the saying goes, "The best way to predict the future is to create it." In difficult situations, we can find true solutions only when we first prove our own value.
We are now in the age of artificial intelligence. The introduction of AI in imaging medicine areas, including echocardiography, is an inevitable trend. However, no matter how much technology advances, the principle that the core of echocardiography is ultimately "people" will never change. Amidst these waves of change, the society will concentrate all its capabilities to ensure that the role and value of echocardiography are properly evaluated in policy, and that members can maintain their pride as professionals. I hope that our members continue to support us with interest and enthusiastic participation.
In the New Year, the Korean Society of Echocardiography will do its utmost to serve as a reliable support protecting your interests and as a place of learning that quenches your academic thirst.
I hope this will be a year of achieving even greater results by overcoming trials.
Thank you.
