On December 19, 2025, Vietnam National Children’s Hospital solemnly held a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony to establish international cooperation with the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), Republic of Korea in the fields of science, technology, and innovation. The event marked a significant milestone in the hospital’s strategy to expand international collaboration, enhance research capacity, improve training, and accelerate the application of advanced technologies in pediatric care.
The ceremony was attended by leaders and distinguished scientists from GIST, as well as key representatives from Vietnam National Children’s Hospital, including Professor Tran Minh Dien, Director, and Dr. Phan Huu Phuc, Vice Director, along with heads of various departments, units, and centers.
GIST, recognized as one of South Korea’s foremost research and training institutions in science and technology, brings strengths in biomedical science, engineering, artificial intelligence, and interdisciplinary research. The partnership aims to leverage these strengths in support of shared goals in pediatric research and technology development.
In his remarks, Professor Tran Minh Dien warmly welcomed the visiting delegation and shared insights into Vietnam National Children’s Hospital’s role as Vietnam’s leading pediatric center in clinical care, scientific research, training, and innovation. He highlighted the hospital’s current focus on priority areas such as genetics, molecular diagnostics, imaging, stem cell therapy, precision medicine, and the integration of science and technology in healthcare.
Professor Yong-Chul Kim, Executive Vice President of GIST, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration and reaffirmed the institute’s strong commitment to providing necessary support and resources to ensure a sustainable and impactful partnership.
Under the terms of the MOU, both sides agreed to collaborate in three core areas: scientific research, training and academic exchange, and technology development and transfer. Planned joint initiatives include research on metabolic and immune disorders, cancer, and the application of artificial intelligence in clinical prediction and management, as well as cooperative doctoral and advanced training programs.
Following the signing ceremony, the GIST delegation visited several key units within Vietnam National Children’s Hospital, including departments of laboratory testing, genetics and molecular biology, the Diagnostic Imaging Department, the Center for Endocrinology, Metabolism, Genetics, and Molecular Therapy, and the Stem Cell Center.
The memorandum signing represents an important foundation for deepening specialized pediatric cooperation, advancing research and training capacities, and fostering the practical application of cutting-edge scientific achievements to better protect and improve children’s health, in line with international integration goals.
