It has been almost seven years since doctors who were interested in the rehabilitation of brain diseases across the nation established the Brain Disease Research Association of Korea.

And it has been during this period that many of our members have actively participated in this association and contributed to, including Korean-style standardization, the rehabilitation of brain diseases in Korea. Thus, this association has played an important role in the promotion of friendship.

At this very moment, greater effort for the lift-off towards a higher stage is necessary. Brain disease rehabilitation is an area of medical science that is rapidly improving. However, a greater frequency of professional exchanges with other professional areas is still needed. Many members understand the necessity of international exchanges with other advanced countries, not to mention those domestically. And the establishment of a close relationship with the World Federation of Neuro-Rehabilitation is particularly urgent.

For this lift-off of development to a higher level, we are making a trial of transition from a research meeting in the past to the regular academic association. It is thought that this attempt is an inevitable part of streamlining our organization for greater member participation as well as to facilitate the publishing of academic journals for scholastic exchanges and to hold academic seminars.

In order to accomplish these goals, we absolutely need active member input and cooperation. In my humble opinion, all members should dare to readjust their existing manners in order to take an active step forward toward improving the status of our academic association. With greater member cooperation, we can make it possible for all of us to witness a more harmonious and developed association.

Once again, I ask your active participation and I wish good health and peace to our members and their families.