Radiation and radioisotopes(RIs)
are now widely used in the areas of engineering, medical
and biological sciences, and other industries.
And their application technologies have been progressing
greatly in some high-tech and high value-added areas such
as new material development, gene research, and highly
advanced medical equipment development, etc.
Meanwhile, the number of users of RIs in Korea is continuously
increasing by about 10% in annual average, and thus, as
of the end of 2006, it has already exceeded 3,000 mainly
in the areas of education, research, industry, and public
and medical institutes.
KRIA, which was established in September 1985, has fostered
friendship among its members and contributed to the
promotion of use of RIs and related safety culture,
and also faithfully conducted bridging activities between
government and industries. As a result, KRIA becomes
to be proud of taking one part of the establishment
of infrastructure for the promotion of use of RIs and
safety management.
KRIA, however, will not be satisfied with current
accomplishment but continue to discharge its duties
substantially to fulfill the various needs of its members
through swift provision of information of up-to-date
application technologies in the advanced countries,
strengthening of international cooperation, reinforcement
of education and training program, safety management
support and expansion of services. Most importantly,
KRIA will also strengthen the discharge of its
responsibilities as a focal point for the representation
of the interests of its members.
On the basis of the much favorable change in the environment
of RIs utilization by strengthening government's support
policy in the 21st century, I would like to assure you
that we all together could accomplish an energetic take-off
of RIs industry with active participation and strong
support of our members, and the untiring effort of KRIA.
Thank you.
Chul-Chong Kim
President, Korea Radioisotope Association
