1. The Korean Medical Women’s Association (KMWA) participated in the 33rd Medical Women’s International Association (MWIA) Congress and General Assembly held in Cairo, Egypt, from October 12 to 14, 2025. A total of 28 KMWA members attended, achieving notable academic success with 19 poster presentations and one oral presentation.
The congress theme, “One Humanity: Health Solutions through Our Partnerships,” focused on key future health agendas, including women’s health and gender equity, mental health, climate change, and digital health. The opening ceremony welcomed over 500 women physicians from 36 countries.
During Track 3 on Women’s Mental Health, Dr. Bong-Ok Kim, Vice President of MWIA Western Pacific region, chaired sessions. KMWA also organized a charity bazaar, donating all proceeds to MWIA, and participated in social events, including a Nile River cruise.
On the second day, at the evening Gala Dinner, Korea received an enthusiastic response to a Dancesport performance, followed by “Spring in My Hometown,” sung by all members.
On the third day, at the Regional Meeting, Dr. Bong-Ok Kim was recognized for her service, and Dr. Sherry Lai of Taiwan was inaugurated as Vice President for the Western Pacific Region. On hearing news of a natural disaster in the Philippines, KMWA made an immediate donation of USD 750, helping initiate MWIA’s relief efforts.
At the closing ceremony, KMWA received the following honors:
1. Triennial Theme Award
2. Call for Her Story Back Story Award (Dr. Kyung-Ah Park)
3. Honorary Members Award (Dr. Hyun Wook Baik)
In addition, 25 Korean members were honored as Golden Jubilee Members, an award given to those with over 50 years of service. These awards formally recognized KMWA’s leadership and contributions within the global community of women physicians.
The General Assembly reviewed committee activities and selected Georgia as the host country for the 34th MWIA Congress in 2028.
2. The Korean Medical Women’s Association (KMWA) marked its 70th anniversary with an Academic Symposium and New Year’s Celebration on January 9, 2026, at the National Medical Center.
President Soon Won Hong stated that the past seven decades represent “a history of solidarity and dedication in which women physicians have supported one another while demonstrating professionalism and social responsibility.”
Part I, the Academic Symposium, featured two speakers from Seoul National University. Dr. Min Seon Park presented “New Clinical Applications of Prokinetics: Balance of Forces,” and Dr. Sinyoung Cho presented “Current Guidelines and Comprehensive Management of Obesity (GLP-1 Agonists).”
Part II, the New Year’s Celebration, included the cutting of a commemorative rice cake, followed by remarks from former presidents and senior advisors reflecting on past achievements and future goals. The highlight rice cake, composed of 70 individual pieces, was sponsored by the 30th President, Yoon Seok-wan, symbolizing KMWA’s 70-year legacy.
Fig 1. KMWA participated in the 33rd MWIA Congress in Cairo
Fig 2 Dancesport performance at the Gala Dinner at MWIA Congress
Fig 3. KMWA’s 70th Anniversary and New Year’s Celebration