2025

Greetings to all,

It is with great honor and excitement that I welcome you to the 12th Pan-Pacific Trauma Congress (PPTC) 2025 and the 40th Annual Meeting of the Korean Society of Traumatology.

For the past 40 years, the Korean Society of Traumatology (KST) has been at the forefront of advancing trauma care, driving significant progress in both medical practice and policy. What began as a small gathering of trauma specialists has grown into a robust network of dedicated professionals committed to improving trauma systems, not just in Korea but across the Pan-Pacific region. PPTC, now in its 12th edition, has played a vital role in this journey—fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and setting new standards in trauma care.

This year’s theme, “40 Years of Leadership in Trauma Care,” reflects our ongoing mission. Trauma care is never a solo effort—it requires seamless teamwork among specialists from various disciplines. Over the years, we have witnessed how multidisciplinary collaboration leads to better patient outcomes, shaping a trauma system that is more effective, efficient, and responsive to emergencies.

I sincerely hope that PPTC 2025 will serve as a platform where we can share our experiences, discuss innovative strategies, and strengthen our partnerships. Let us take this opportunity to learn from each other, deepen our commitment to saving lives, and shape the future of trauma care together.

Thank you for being part of this remarkable journey.

Jong-Keon OH, M.D.
President, The Korean Society of Traumatology

Dear Colleagues

On behalf of the Korean Society of Traumatology, I extend my warmest welcome to all participants joining PPTC 2025 in Incheon, Korea.

This year is particularly meaningful as we celebrate 40 years since the founding of the Korean Society of Traumatology. Over the past four decades, KST has played a key role in transforming Korea’s trauma care system—establishing regional trauma centers, expanding training programs, and improving trauma patient survival rates. These achievements would not have been possible without the dedication and collaboration of trauma professionals like you.

Since its inception in 2013, PPTC has grown into a premier international academic conference, bringing together experts from across the region to share the latest research, best practices, and innovative approaches to trauma care. We have also been fortunate to collaborate with the Republic of Korea Armed Forces Medical Command, strengthening both military and civilian trauma response systems.

Trauma care is unique in that it demands interdisciplinary cooperation and real-time decision-making under extreme conditions. It is our shared responsibility to ensure that trauma teams work as a cohesive unit, embracing the spirit of teamwork and mutual respect. PPTC 2025 will be an invaluable opportunity to refine our approaches, discuss emerging challenges, and reinforce our commitment to excellence in trauma care.

We have prepared an outstanding scientific program that will encourage lively discussions and meaningful interactions. I encourage you all to participate actively, exchange insights, and forge new collaborations that will benefit trauma patients worldwide.

I look forward to meeting you in Incheon. Thank you.

Hang Joo CHO, M.D.
Chairman of the Board of Directors
The Korean Society of Traumatology

Dear distinguished colleagues,

It is my great honor to welcome you to PPTC 2025, a conference that has been instrumental in advancing trauma care over the past 12 years. I extend my sincere gratitude to the Korean Society of Traumatology for organizing this prestigious gathering and to all medical professionals who dedicate themselves to saving lives in both civilian and military settings.

The Republic of Korea Armed Forces Medical Command has long recognized the importance of a strong, well-coordinated trauma system. Our mission is clear: to provide the highest level of care for our wounded soldiers while contributing to the advancement of Korea’s national trauma system. Over the years, we have developed an integrated trauma care system, incorporating medical evacuation, field treatment, and rehabilitation to ensure that every injured soldier receives the best possible care.

We are also embracing cutting-edge technology, such as AI-assisted triage systems, enhanced field medical units, and military medical evacuation helicopters, to further strengthen our capabilities. However, technology alone is not enough—human expertise and collaboration remain at the heart of trauma care. That is why events like PPTC 2025 are so crucial. They allow us to exchange ideas, refine our approaches, and strengthen the partnerships that will shape the future of trauma medicine.

I have no doubt that this year’s congress will serve as a valuable platform for meaningful discussions and innovative solutions. I encourage all participants to actively engage, share insights, and work together to build a stronger, more resilient trauma care system.

Once again, I sincerely appreciate your dedication and look forward to fruitful discussions at PPTC 2025.

Thank you.

Brigadier General Sangho LEE
Commanding General
Republic of Korea Armed Forces Medical Command