INCHEON, SOUTH KOREA – The Korean Dental Association (KDA), the national organization representing 37,000 dentists, is set to commemorate its 100th anniversary with a grand International Dental Academic Conference and Dental Equipment Exhibition. The landmark event will take place at Songdo Convensia in Incheon from April 11th to 13th and is expected to draw approximately 20,000 attendees, including dental professionals and members of the public from across the nation.
The KDA announced the details of this significant milestone at a press conference held on April 3rd in Seoul. The centennial celebration, themed "100 Years with the People, Healthy Smiles to 100 Years," promises a comprehensive program encompassing academic enrichment, industry showcases, and engaging cultural and athletic activities.
Commemorative Ceremony to Highlight a Century of Progress and Future Aspirations
The festivities will commence on April 11th with a commemorative ceremony and opening gala at the Grand Ballroom of Songdo Convensia. Esteemed guests, including Minister of Health and Welfare Cho Kyoo-hong, Incheon Metropolitan City Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok, and President of the FDI World Dental Federation, Dr. Greg Chadwick, alongside other prominent figures from the government, political arena, and international dental community, are expected to grace the event. The ceremony will not only celebrate the KDA's remarkable 100-year journey but also articulate the unwavering commitment of Korean dentists to providing world-class dental care and striving for global leadership in dental medicine in the century ahead.
World-Renowned Experts to Lead 100 Cutting-Edge Academic Sessions
A central pillar of the centennial celebration is the International Dental Academic Conference, featuring an impressive lineup of 100 lectures. These sessions will delve into the latest advancements and innovations across various critical fields of dentistry, including implantology, orthodontics, prosthodontics, and the rapidly evolving domain of digital dentistry in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Leading authorities in Korean dental clinical practice will share their expertise, offering a comprehensive overview of the nation's significant contributions and advancements in dental medicine over the past century.
The academic program is meticulously designed to enhance the clinical skills of practicing dentists through presentations on the most current clinical techniques and research. Furthermore, the conference will feature insightful policy and educational sessions addressing crucial topics such as the present state and future trajectory of the Korean dental industry, a critical evaluation of 100 years of dental education, national dental policies concerning individuals with disabilities, and the ethical responsibilities of dental professionals.
Korean Dental Industry's Global Competitiveness on Display
The accompanying Dental Equipment Exhibition will serve as a prime platform to showcase the strength and innovation of the Korean dental industry, which currently holds the top position in domestic medical device production and exports. The exhibition will offer a unique opportunity to witness the cutting-edge technologies and products that hold the potential to further solidify Korea's position in the global dental market.
Anticipating a significant turnout, the exhibition will host around 200 companies, ranging from internationally recognized Korean dental giants like Shinheung, Osstem Implant, and NeoBiotech to promising startup ventures. This extensive showcase will provide attendees with a comprehensive view of the latest advancements and future trends shaping the dental equipment landscape.
A Diverse Program Engaging the Public Through Culture and Sport
The KDA's centennial celebration extends beyond professional development and industry showcases, incorporating a vibrant array of cultural and sports events designed to engage the wider public.
The "Dental Art Exhibition" (Cheeui Mijeon) will present 68 captivating photographs and paintings at Songdo Convensia throughout the main event (April 11-13). Simultaneously, the "100 History Cafe," a dedicated dental history exhibition, will offer a fascinating glimpse into the KDA's rich past through digitized displays of approximately 100 rare photographs and historical materials.
Demonstrating their commitment to community service, the KDA will also operate a mobile dental clinic at the event venue for three days, providing essential dental care to visiting citizens.
Looking ahead, the KDA will host a "Healthy Senior Teeth Contest" around Oral Health Day on June 9th. Regional dental associations will nominate exemplary seniors with healthy teeth, who will undergo rigorous evaluations, including panoramic X-rays. This initiative aims to highlight the importance of oral health, particularly in South Korea's rapidly aging society, by showcasing best practices in oral health management for the elderly.
In September, the KDA will organize the "Smile Run Festival," a commemorative marathon expected to attract around 6,000 participants. This annual event, now in its 15th year, is a significant fundraising initiative within the dental community, with proceeds dedicated to supporting the surgical costs of patients with oral cancer and facial deformities.
Reflecting on the KDA's remarkable journey, President Park Tae-keun stated, "One hundred years ago, Korea was a relatively underdeveloped nation in dental medicine. Today, thanks to the dedication of our professionals and the support of the public, we have become a globally admired leader in dental care. The Korean Dental Association expresses its deepest gratitude to the Korean people and pledges to continue striving for the improvement of national oral health and the advancement of Korean dental medicine on the world stage in the next century."
Organizing Committee Chairman Kang Choong-kyu emphasized the inclusive nature of the celebration, saying, "We have endeavored to make the KDA's centennial anniversary a commemorative event that resonates with the public, not just a celebration for dental professionals. We hope this event will inspire greater public interest in dental care and overall oral health."
The Korean Dental Association traces its roots back to the Hanseong Dental Society, established in 1925 by pioneering Korean dentists during a period of colonial rule. This year marks the significant 100th anniversary of the founding of this foundational organization. The upcoming centennial celebration promises to be a momentous occasion, highlighting the KDA's enduring legacy and its vision for the future of dental care in Korea and beyond.
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