Professor Sung Ho Han of Dong-A University Appointed as Next President of the Korean Geriatrics Society

From Consecutive Terms as President of the Family Medicine Academy to Leading the Geriatrics Society
Driving Healthcare Policy in a Super-Aged Society

Dong-A University (President Lee Hae-woo) announced on December 19 that Professor Sung Ho Han of the College of Medicine has been appointed as the next president of the Korean Geriatrics Society.

Professor Han was elected as the incoming president during the 76th Autumn Academic Conference of the Korean Geriatrics Society, which was held at Seoul National University on December 6 and 7. His term will last for one year, until next year.

With this appointment, Professor Sung Ho Han will now serve as the president of the Korean Geriatrics Society, in addition to his consecutive terms as president of the Korean Academy of Family Medicine. Starting next year, he is also set to serve as vice president of the Korean Society for the Study of Obesity, positioning him as a key figure in the fields of geriatric and family medicine in Korea.

Founded in 1968, the Korean Geriatrics Society focuses its academic activities on the diagnosis and treatment of geriatric diseases that directly affect the quality of life in old age. The society is also actively involved in formulating health care policies for the elderly in Korea, which has entered a super-aged society.

Professor Sung Ho Han stated, "It is time to simultaneously drive academic advancement in geriatric medicine and bring about practical changes in clinical practice to effectively respond to the super-aged society," adding, "I will do my best to enhance the quality of elderly care and establish a sustainable medical system through multidisciplinary collaboration."

Since joining Dong-A University in 2005, Professor Han has established himself as an authority in geriatrics, obesity, vaccination, and clinical nutrition. He currently serves as vice president of the Korean Society of Sports Medicine and as president of the Busan-Ulsan-Gyeongnam branch of the Korean Society for the Study of Obesity. He has also held key administrative roles within the university, including Director of Admissions and Director of International Affairs.

In recognition of his research achievements and service, Professor Han has received numerous awards, including the Handok Academic Award and Family Doctor of the Year from the Korean Academy of Family Medicine, the Hallim Medical Award from Dong-A University Hospital, the Busan Mayor's Award for contributions to the anti-aging industry, the Social Service Award from the Busan Medical Association, and a commendation from the Minister of Health and Welfare.

He has also appeared regularly as a panelist on various broadcasting programs, such as the Busan MBC radio show "Jagaltchi Ajimae," delivering practical medical information to the public, including on COVID-19. Additionally, he operates the YouTube channel "Sweet Han Doctor," which promotes the importance of family medicine and strengthens communication with the public.