Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Photo: WAM
The Medical Korea 2025 symposium took place today in Abu Dhabi, organized by the Embassy of South Korea and the Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI). The event was held under the theme “New Horizons in Radiation Therapy: Particle Beam Therapy” at Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi.
The event gathered international cancer experts and specialists in radiation therapy to discuss new ways to treat cancer, especially using proton therapy and carbon ion therapy. The main goal was to encourage stronger scientific and medical cooperation between South Korea and the UAE and to exchange knowledge on advanced cancer treatments.
This effort reflects a growing need worldwide for more effective cancer care and highlights both countries’ dedication to using precision medicine to improve patients’ lives.
At the opening of the event, Park Jong Kyoung, Minister and Consul General of the South Korean Embassy in the UAE, gave a keynote speech. He shared data from the World Health Organization (WHO), stating that more than 20 million people are diagnosed with cancer each year and around 10 million people die from it. These numbers are expected to rise to 35 million cancer cases per year in the next 25 years.
He stressed that cancer is one of the biggest health challenges in both Korea and the UAE. That’s why both countries need to work closely together to find better treatments. Park also mentioned that South Korea is already using advanced radiation treatments like proton and carbon ion therapy, which were the main focus of the event.
He praised the UAE’s efforts, including its recent plan to build a carbon ion accelerator facility, which shows its commitment to fighting cancer.
Lastly, Park spoke about the strong ties between Korea and the UAE, which began with the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant project in 2009. He expressed hope that this solid partnership, already strong in areas like nuclear energy, defence, and investment, will now grow even more in the healthcare sector.
English
