Korea’s anesthesiology conference draws 2,700 experts from 34 countries

By expanding its international network and sharing key insights in anesthesiology and pain medicine, the Korean Society of Anesthesiologists (KSA) continued to strengthen its status as a global academic hub.

The KSA held its “Comprehensive Academic Conference (Korea Anesthesia 2025)” at the Incheon Paradise Convention Center from Nov. 6 to 8. According to the society, the meeting is evolving into a major international academic event, supported by new academic exchange agreements with anesthesiology and pain medicine societies in the United States, Europe, Japan and other regions.

This year’s conference brought together 620 international specialists from 34 countries. Including 2,076 Korean participants, total attendance reached 2,696.

Leading global speakers delivered lectures across 85 sessions, presenting the latest developments in anesthesiology and pain medicine. Key figures included Daniel Sessler, a world-renowned authority in the field, and Donald Arnold, president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA).

The event also featured discussions on leadership and future challenges in the specialty with participation from the current and incoming ASA presidents and the former president of the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists (WFSA).

A total of 384 research abstracts from 20 countries were submitted, showcasing new scientific findings. Eight hands-on workshops—including nerve blocks, echocardiography, and airway management—provided practical training opportunities for residents.

During the conference’s Council of Representatives, Professor Han Dong-woo of Yonsei University College of Medicine was elected as the KSA’s next president. His term will begin in January 2027.