Advocating for the expansion of advanced rehabilitation technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and digital health, alongside the resolution of healthcare disparities

Dr. Nam-jong Paik, President of Seoul National University Hospital, assumed office as the president of the World Federation for NeuroRehabilitation (WFNR) on October 15, becoming the first South Korean to lead the organization. His term is four years.

Established in 1996, the WFNR is a UK-based multidisciplinary international organization boasting over 5,000 members worldwide. It operates 38 special interest groups and collaborates with 41 national societies.

The federation aims to raise awareness in the field of neurorehabilitation, support education, training, and research, and promote professional exchange and international collaboration.

The World Congress for Neurorehabilitation (WCNR), hosted biennially by the WFNR, is a premier international academic event. The 14th congress was held in Daegu from October 14 to 17, drawing researchers and clinicians from the global neurorehabilitation community.

Dr. Paik has spearheaded research in the rehabilitation of neurological disorders, including stroke, and has recently focused on integrating artificial intelligence and digital health technologies into rehabilitative medicine. His appointment is widely regarded as a recognition of South Korea's research capabilities and growing international standing in neurorehabilitation.

"With rapid global aging, the number of patients suffering from neurological conditions such as stroke, dementia, and Parkinson's disease is increasing, making the importance of neurorehabilitation greater than ever," said newly appointed President Paik. "Furthermore, neurorehabilitation is advancing rapidly as cutting-edge technologies—such as brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) and neuromodulation—are incorporated into rehabilitation therapy."

He added, "Efforts are also needed to reduce neurorehabilitation healthcare disparities worldwide, ensuring that these developmental benefits do not remain confined to a few select nations. As president, I will strengthen cooperation with societies in every country to jointly drive two major agendas: the advancement of cutting-edge technologies and the improvement of healthcare accessibility."

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]