Q. Once again, congratulations on being selected as the winner of the ‘Doosan Yonkang Academic Awards - Surgeon’s division’.

A. It is my great honor to receive this precious award. And I appreciate to the members who conducted the multicenter study together.

Q. Among the many fields of medicine, I would like to hear the reason why you chose “surgery” as your major.

A. Although not easy, I believed that surgery could improve the survival and quality of life of patients.

Q. It would be grateful if you are able to explain the field you are working on, and the importance of the research.

A. As a colorectal surgeon, I mainly conduct research to improve treatment and prognosis for colorectal cancer patients. And I’m also conducting research to reduce surgical site infections, which is one of the most common complications after surgery.

Q. Could you please provide an explanation of the award-winning research paper?

A. This study is a randomized clinical trial comparing wound protector and surgical gauze for surgical site infection. It was conducted during 5 years in 13 hospitals. And we found that a significant reduction in surgical site infection rate when a plastic wound protector was used during open gastrointestinal surgery.

Q. I would like to inquire about your plans as a researcher and surgeon.

A. I plan to continue to conduct treatment and research to improve the outcomes and quality of life for colorectal cancer patients. And I also plan to continue research to reduce post-operative complications, including surgical site infection.

Q. Lastly, could you please share a few words of encouragement or advice for your fellow surgeons who are applying for the ‘Doosan Yonkang Academic Awards - Surgeon’s division’?

A. Thank you very much to all surgeons who continue to provide surgeries and researches for the advancement of patient outcomes, even under difficult and busy circumstances. And I’m deeply grateful to the Doosan Yonkang Foundation for supporting our surgical society.