As Korea’s first national policy think tank in the humanities and social sciences,

the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs (KIHASA) has been dedicated for over fifty years to

research-informed policymaking toward a healthier and happier life for all.

Today, amid rapid socioeconomic changes, Korea faces various forms of conflict, insecurity,

and risk. Low birth rates, a rapidly aging population, a widening rich-poor gap,

discontinuities in care, a crisis-ridden healthcare system, and a host of challenges arising

from climate change - all these call for more than just ad hoc responses; they require finely crafted, comprehensive policy solutions.

At KIHASA, we endeavor to contribute to policy efforts to proactively address social changes, lessen social conflicts, strengthen crisis-response

capabilities, and make our society more sustainable and inclusive, all with the goal of improving quality of life for everyone.

Our work involves thoroughgoing analyses of policy issues and social needs, linking on-the-ground realities to policymaking, and ensuring

that the research evidence we present is practical, accountable, and timely.

KIHASA will continue in this vein, faithful to the duty it is called on to perform

as Korea’s leading social policy research organization, striving to remain worthy of public trust.

We keep ourselves attentive to public voices, putting our research work in service of societal trust and public good.

In this time of uncertainty and crisis, we do our utmost to serve as a compass for our society, guiding evidence-based policy choices.

I am deeply grateful for your continued interest and support.

The only way I know to return that trust is by doing research that makes a difference in the quality of your life.

Youngseok Shin

President, KIHASA