I feel a great sense of responsibility to work for such a large community of more than 2,000 members and long years of history and tradition. I promise to discuss with all of my predecessors who have successfully fulfilled their roles for the Society.

Since the Korean Society of Gastroenterology was established about 50 years before, it has been an organization for the specialists of Gastroenterology and many affiliated academic societies have been derived from it. However, some people are concerned whether the society is maintaining its initial purpose of multispecialty through various seminars, affiliates, and related organizations. Upon reviewing this aspect, I have planned to promote the following:

First, I will do my best for our society to play a role as a parent society by supporting our affiliated or allied societies and by integrating some of the procedures to improve efficiency and support.

Second, I will begin fulfilling a role of our socirty as a multispecialty society. I will make efforts to share many activities including academic programs with various specialties in our society through the congress and many other channels.

Third, I will try to establish the mission, vision and educational objectives for the Korean Society of Gastroenterology, in the hope that an adequate identity and future direction will be given to our and next generations.

Fourth, one of the most important functions and responsibilities of a society is social contribution. I will look for and promote social contribution activities that are within our reach.

Lastly, we will be celebrating our 50th Anniversary in 2011. All the members of the organizing committee will do our best to prepare various projects and events in celebration of the 50th

Anniversary. I would greatly appreciate your cooperation and support.