Once again, congratulations on being selected as the winner of the ‘Doosan Yonkang Academic Awards – Pediatrics division’.

I am deeply honored to receive the prestigious award. This award is not something I could have achieved alone, and I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported me along the way. I dedicate this honor to Professor Young Ah Lee at Seoul National University Hospital, whose insightful guidance and unwavering support—from the study’s conception to the long revision process—made this work possible. I am also sincerely grateful to Professor Yeon Jin Cho, whose prior research provided important ideas for this study, and to Professors Sei Won Yang, Choong Ho Shin, and Jae Hyeon Kim, who have paved the way in the field of pediatric endocrinology and guided me with wisdom in both research and life. My deepest thanks go to my mentor, Dr. Seulggie Choi, who has always shared thoughtful discussions and sincere advice whenever I faced challenges in my research, and to my parents, husband, and beloved daughter Jia, whose love and faith have been my greatest strength. Their support has allowed me to continue my research journey with gratitude and purpose.

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

I believe that medical care during childhood profoundly influences not only a child’s growth but also their future life. Although it carries great responsibility, the joy of seeing a child regain health and smile again is greater than anything else. Those warm and meaningful moments are what led me to this path. In particular, pediatric endocrinology is deeply rewarding because it allows me to witness how treatment can shape a child’s growth and development firsthand. I believe pediatric endocrinology is a vital field that lays the foundation for a child’s healthy present and healthy future.

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

My research focuses on understanding pediatric endocrine disorders and establishing evidence that can be directly applied to clinical practice. The award-winning study on pediatric thyroid nodule diagnostic criteria is also part of this ongoing effort. I am further conducting studies that examine how early-life factors contribute to diabetes and metabolic diseases and follow their long-term impact on children’s health. Through these studies, I aim to contribute to the early diagnosis and personalized treatment of pediatric endocrine disorders.

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

This study proposed new biopsy cutoffs to improve the diagnostic accuracy of pediatric thyroid nodules. By comprehensively analyzing each nodule’s characteristics—such as repeat biopsy, surgical intervention, and final pathology—we identified the clinical course of pediatric thyroid nodules and developed pediatric-specific biopsy cutoffs that incorporate clinical risk factors. These cutoffs improved diagnostic accuracy without increasing unnecessary biopsies, providing practical guidance for the clinical management of thyroid nodules in children.

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

As a researcher, I believe I am still in a stage of exploration. I plan to take on a broad range of studies within pediatric endocrinology, viewing both success and failure as valuable experiences for growth. My goal is to discover the area where I can make the most meaningful contribution and refine my expertise, continuing to move forward without becoming complacent. I also hope that my research will help improve clinical practice and make a difference in patient care. As a physician, I want to stand beside my patients—not only as a doctor, but as a supporter who helps them recover and grow with health and hope.

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

As a young researcher, I still have much to learn, so I do not feel ready to give advice. This award means more to me than recognition—it feels like quiet encouragement after moments of doubt and hard work. No one pursues research for awards, but moments like this remind us that our efforts matter and give us the courage to move forward. To all my fellow applicants, I sincerely admire your dedication and wish you continued strength and inspiration.