First of all, on behalf of the Korea
International Cooperation Agency, I would like to extend my congratulations on
the first publication of the World Korean Medical Journal (WKMJ).
The World Korean Medical Organization has been
playing the role as a focal point of Korean doctors in 12 countries across the
world since its establishment in 2012. As such, I would like to offer a message
of gratitude to President Hyun Chul Soo for his dedication towards encouraging
the members of the WKMO while expanding the scope of work it does for the
community despite various obstacles along the way.
This momentous occasion is no doubt an
important milestone for the Korean medical community. Furthermore, I believe
that this journal will not only be the center for various clinical and academic
exchanges of Korean doctors, but also help to facilitate such discussions and
cooperation. By advocating volunteerism in developing countries, WKMO shares
KOICA’s vision of enhancing the quality of sustainable lives as well as poverty
reduction through the achievement of the MDGs.
As you might know, out of the eight targets of
the MDGs, three are directly related to the health sector. As a result, the
MDGs have contributed to placing the health sector as a top priority agenda and
the enhancement of health care all around the world.
However, the health sectors of developing
countries are still facing many difficulties and require more aid and
assistance. Every year, 360,000 women across the globe die due to
pregnancy-related causes, and 76 million children fall victim to death caused
by malnutrition and disease. And of course, despite the global efforts, the
fight against HIV/AIDS still has a long journey to go.
In this context, KOICA, as Korea’s official
grant aid implementation agency, provides extensive support for the development
of our partner countries. As a part of these efforts, the health sector has
been designated as one of our most important core sectors, and we carry out
many health-related programs. In particular, maternal and child health,
strengthening of health system programs, establishment of health centers and
hospitals, and fostering of health workforce are some of the key programs.
However, KOICA cannot carry out these
activities alone. It continually needs the support of relevant experts as well
as the cooperation of other organizations. For this reason, the cooperation
between KOICA and WKMO is crucial in providing support for enhancing the health
of the people of developing countries.
I once again offer my congratulations on the
publication of WKMJ. I highly anticipate the great contributions it will make
as a source for academic knowledge sharing in all areas of health, and hope
that it will also provide a space for doctors to cooperate on working to
develop the health sectors of developing countries.
Lastly, I wish for the continued success and
growth of the WKMO, and may it serve a critical role in improving the lives of
not only the members of the Korean community but also of those all around the
world.
Thank you.
Young-mok Kim
President
Korea International Cooperation Agency