W Hospital, led by Hospital Director Woo Sang-hyun and widely recognized as a premier institution for microsurgery, has achieved the remarkable feat of bringing a major international academic congress to South Korea. Often referred to as the “Asian Games of microsurgery,” the event represents a significant milestone for the nation's medical community.
The hospital announced that at the 7th General Assembly of the Asia-Pacific Federation of Societies for Reconstructive Microsurgery (APFSRM), held on the 17th in Bali, Indonesia, South Korea prevailed over competing nations to win the bid for the 2030 congress with unanimous support.
A breakthrough for regional healthcare on the international stage
The successful bid is drawing intense interest because it departs from the traditional pattern of national organizations or major university hospitals leading such efforts. Instead, a regional private general hospital took the initiative and delivered a world-class result.
Held every two years, the APFSRM is a prestigious international meeting where approximately 1,000 experts from over 30 countries gather to share the latest advances in reconstructive microsurgery. The 2030 congress is scheduled to take place from May 23 to 25 at the Gyeongju Hwabaek International Convention Center (HICO).
Director Woo Sang-hyun’s persistence and the synergy of K-medicine
A key driver behind the victory was Woo Sang-hyun, who served as the chair of the bid committee. In Bali, Director Woo actively highlighted Korea’s exceptional clinical outcomes and the cultural heritage of Gyeongju, successfully winning over the voting delegates.
The win was also the result of a unified "one team" effort. Robust backing came from the Korean Society for Microsurgery, along with support from the Korean Society for Surgery of the Hand, the Korean Society of Peripheral Nerve Surgery, the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, and the Korean Orthopaedic Association. Administrative cooperation from the Korea Tourism Organization and the City of Gyeongju provided the necessary logistical weight to secure the bid.
“This is a symbolic result showing that a regional private general hospital can take the lead in a global academic congress,” said Director Woo Sang-hyun. “It was made possible by overcoming prejudice and resistance, combining the passion of the medical community with the committed support of both central and local governments.”
Gyeongju to become a global hub for microsurgery in 2030
Microsurgery is an elite field involving high-precision procedures, such as finger replantation and the reconnection of microscopic blood vessels and nerves. By hosting this congress, Korea—and specifically the Gyeongsangbuk-do region—expects to showcase its advanced surgical capabilities to the world while providing a boost to local industries and tourism.
W Hospital, which is designated by the Ministry of Health and Welfare as a specialized hospital for hand surgery, plans to use this achievement as a springboard to begin full-scale preparations for the 2030 congress.
