Dear Members of the Korean Institute of Chemical Engineers (KIChE),

The year 2026 has dawned. At this moment of new beginnings, I feel immense honor and a deep sense of responsibility as I offer my first greetings as the President of the Korean Institute of Chemical Engineers. First and foremost, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the former presidents and executives who dedicated themselves to the development of the Institute over the past year, as well as to all our members who have silently continued their research and practice in academia and industry. Thanks to your passion and dedication, our Institute has been able to further solidify its status as a professional academic organization that combines academic depth with industrial practicality.

Reflecting on our history and tradition of leading the advancement of chemical engineering for over 60 years, it is now time to envision a new future together. This year’s slogan is "Expanding Chemical Engineering for a Changing World." This slogan symbolizes the challenges and opportunities we face today and contains the demand of our times to expand the role of chemical engineering beyond the boundaries of academia and industry.

The international situation is changing more rapidly than ever. Geopolitical conflicts, the transition of the energy paradigm, and the reorganization of global supply chains are having a profound impact on our fields, including the petrochemical industry. In particular, the petrochemical industry is being called upon for structural changes amidst the great tide of eco-friendly transition and carbon neutrality, which requires a fundamental review of the direction of our discipline and industry.

Furthermore, we cannot overlook the difficulties faced by the next generation of scholars. Uncertainty in research funding, lack of job security, and a culture centered on excessive competition and evaluation are dampening the passion of young researchers. Creating an environment where they can exercise their creativity and spirit of challenge is one of the most important duties of our Institute.

Accordingly, I will support our Institute in moving forward in the following directions:

First, we will strive for the practical convergence of academia and industry. We will expand industry-academic-research cooperation platforms in fields linked to national strategies, such as sustainable technology, carbon neutrality, and innovations in bio, energy, and materials. Through practical collaboration within the Institute, we must prepare policy recommendations for the sustainable future of chemical engineering. To this end, we will increase support so that researchers from industry, academia, and research institutes in the Industrial Committee, Division Committees, and regional chapters can communicate more actively.

Second, we will focus on enhancing global competitiveness and supporting the next generation of scholars. We will strengthen cooperation networks with world-leading chemical engineering societies and research institutions and expand international academic exchanges by holding regular webinars featuring overseas scholars. Additionally, to support the participation and research activities of young researchers, the Research & Technology Development Committee will operate "Research Small Groups" to assist in networking and research planning activities.

Third, we will realize member-centered communication and expand participation. We will improve the transparency and efficiency of the Institute’s operations and establish various communication channels so that your opinions can be reflected in our policies. We will increase the accessibility and satisfaction of the Institute’s activities by revitalizing industry-academic-research activities by region and division and holding discussion forums with the participation of Councilors.

Distinguished members,

In 2026, I ask for your continued interest and participation so that the Korean Institute of Chemical Engineers can be reborn as a more dynamic and inclusive community. I also sincerely hope that health, happiness, and abundant achievements will accompany your research and your lives in the new year.

Thank you.