[Paek Jongmin's Shockwave] "Nuclear Power That Saves Lives"... A New Wave for 'K-Medicine'

Jin Kyung Lee, Director of the Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences:
"Scientific Progress Leads Directly to Human Health and Life"
Pioneering Localization of 'Actinium-225'
Showcasing Scientific and Technological Excellence Th

"Medicine is the fruit borne of science and technology. Every stage, from diagnosis to treatment, is based on scientific principles and technological advancement. As science progresses, medicine evolves alongside it, and these benefits are directly translated into the health and lives of humanity."

Jin Kyung Lee, Director of the Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences, is being interviewed by Asia Economy. Photo by Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences

The responsibilities weighing on Jin Kyung Lee, Director of the Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences, which operates Korea’s first cancer-specialized hospital, the Korea Cancer Center Hospital, under the Ministry of Science and ICT, are heavier than ever. This is because, as South Korea emerges as a nuclear powerhouse responsible for global energy, there is a concrete vision to lead the world in medical technologies that save lives through nuclear science, and to expand these capabilities internationally.

The Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences has been closely linked with science and technology since its inception. Established in 1963 as the Radiation Medicine Research Institute, it opened a new horizon for cancer treatment by pioneering the use of cobalt-60 radiation therapy in Korea. Director Lee emphasized, "From the very beginning, our goal has been to utilize radiation for medical purposes to promote public health. Our institute is tasked with leading the future of medicine by developing and commercializing innovative medical technologies, based on unparalleled research capabilities and clinical experience in radiological medicine?in other words, by integrating science and medicine." This is not just a slogan; it is a core philosophy reflected in all of the institute’s activities, from the development of radioisotopes to the introduction of advanced radiation therapy devices and research on the biological effects of radiation.

The most urgent issue highlighted by Director Lee is the domestic production of alpha-emitting radiopharmaceuticals, especially Actinium-225 (Ac-225), which is drawing attention as a next-generation cancer therapy.

He stated, "Domestic production of Actinium-225, which has shown groundbreaking efficacy against cancers that are difficult to treat with existing therapies, is now within reach." Director Lee explained that the localization of Actinium-225 will dramatically improve patient access to treatment, have a significant import substitution effect, and holds strong potential for export to neighboring countries such as Japan. He added that Korea’s radiopharmaceutical technology is competitive in the global market.

Jominsoo, Director of the National Radiation Emergency Medical Center at the Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, is explaining the center's international certification. Photo by Jongmin Baek, Tech Specialist

The institute also operates the National Radiation Emergency Medical Center. Director Lee expressed pride, saying, "Our staff refer to themselves as 'radiation emergency medical personnel,' reflecting our constant state of readiness." In the event of a radiation exposure incident, swift and accurate diagnosis and treatment are directly linked to the safety and lives of the public, and the institute is equipped with specialized personnel and systems to respond to such situations.

Director Lee’s broad perspective is also evident in the institute’s international activities, such as being designated as an International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rays of Hope Anchor Center, serving as Vice-Chair of the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR), and providing technical support to Vietnam. His ambition to "contribute to technology support and human resource development as a cancer control hub in the Asia-Pacific region" reflects the sense of duty of a physician-scientist committed not only to Korea but to global public health.

The Vietnam Agency for Radiation and Nuclear Safety has even requested the establishment of a branch of the institute. Director Lee expressed confidence, saying, "Vietnam can provide direct funding, and we can collaborate by offering technical support. This means that beyond simply exporting nuclear power technology, Korea can also lead the world in the field of medical technology."

After graduating from Ewha Womans University School of Medicine and starting his career at the institute as an intern, Director Lee has risen to the top position. He also has long-term aspirations to foster physician-scientists in collaboration with Seoul National University of Science and Technology, which is located nearby. This is driven by a sense of mission that the institute is responsible not only for supporting essential medical fields such as national defense and administration, but also for nurturing doctors who understand science. Director Lee expressed confidence, saying, "We have the optimal environment to provide both theoretical and practical training."