Youngwoo Kim, National Cancer Center Professor, Elected Chair of IARC Scientific Council
The First Korean Chair of the IARC Scientific Council in 60 Years
The National Cancer Center announced on March 5 that Youngwoo Kim, Professor of the Health AI Department, has been elected as Chair of the Scientific Council of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a subsidiary of the World Health Organization (WHO). The term for the Chair will begin on February 13, 2026, and will last for one year.
This marks the first time in the 60-year history of IARC that a Korean national has been appointed as Chair of the Scientific Council. The National Cancer Center explained that this appointment internationally recognizes the academic achievements and global stature of Korea's cancer research accumulated over the years.
IARC is a specialized cancer organization established in 1965 by a decision of the World Health Assembly to reduce the global burden of cancer, and it celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. Korea joined in 2006, and currently, 30 member countries, including the United States, Germany, and France, participate.
The IARC Scientific Council is the key decision-making body that regularly evaluates the agency's overall research activities and sets the strategic direction for permanent research programs. It also plays a central role in shaping the foundation of global cancer research by planning special projects to be submitted to the Governing Council.
Professor Kim was recognized as the right person to lead global cancer control strategies based on his extensive clinical and research experience. With this election, Korea is expected to play an even more leading role in the field of international cancer research.
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Professor Kim stated, "It is an honor to serve as Chair of the IARC Scientific Council, which acts as a compass for global cancer research," adding, "I will do my best to pool research capabilities from around the world to develop innovative strategies for cancer prevention and treatment, and to enhance Korea's contribution within the international community."
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