As we emerge from the long tunnel of COVID-19, we find ourselves appreciating the preciousness of everyday life. Within the challenging medical environment, I extend my utmost respect to all members who are dedicated to the treatment of liver disease patients, liver-related research, and education. I express my gratitude to the members who have given me the opportunity to serve as the President of our esteemed Korean Association for the Study of the Liver for one year. Personally, it is both a great honor and a heavy responsibility.

Our association, which began as the Korean Society for the Study of the Liver in 1981 and officially launched as the Korean Association for the Study of the Liver in 1995, has achieved remarkable growth in both quantity and quality over the past 30 years. I appreciate the efforts of our distinguished senior members as well as the active participation and cooperation of all members.

Our annual event, "The Liver Week," has established itself as an international academic event over the years. Our association's journal, "Clinical and Molecular Hepatology," is expected to surpass an Impact Factor of 10 points by 2024, becoming a highly regarded international journal.

Not content with these achievements, I will strive to enhance the substance of academic events and elevate the standard of our journal further. I will also continue to pursue initiatives to activate research and strengthen research capabilities in liver diseases through projects to nurture excellent young researchers, as we suggest in our vision.

Furthermore, I will make continuous efforts to provide the latest clinical knowledge related to liver diseases and contribute to enhancing clinical expertise by consistently presenting the best standardized clinical guidelines and criteria.

As a professional association, we will fulfill our role in the formulation of government policies related to liver diseases and will not neglect our social responsibility to provide information and education and advocate for improvements in the system for patients suffering from liver diseases.

During my term, I will work sincerely and give my best efforts to collaborate with the Chairman of the Board, Kim Yun-jun, the executive board, and all members for the development of our association.

I request your continued interest, active participation, and support, and I wish you health and good fortune in the upcoming New Year of 2024.

Thank you.