Participation in the 2025 KSES – JSS Exchange Travelling Fellowship program

I had the great opportunity to participate in the “KSES Traveling Fellowship 2025” held in Korea. This program was designed to promote exchange and knowledge sharing in the field of shoulder surgery between Japan and Korea. Over a 28-day period (March 3–30, 2025), I visited 18 major medical institutions across Korea, where I observed surgeries, attended case conferences, engaged in discussions, and participated in academic meetings.

From the day I arrived, I was warmly welcomed by the Korean Shoulder International Committee. The members were young and full of energy, and I could immediately feel the passion of the Korean people. The following day, I took the high-speed train from Seoul to Busan. I was amazed that a round trip between these two cities—located at opposite ends of the country—could be completed in a single day. In Busan, I observed three joint replacement surgeries and was deeply moved when Japanese songs were played in the operating room. The next day, I had the honor of visiting Professor Song, who is set to serve as president next year. Among all the physicians I met, he had the strictest and most thoughtful approach to infection control. His philosophy was both educational and inspiring. We were also given the opportunity to present at a university, where we had valuable discussions not only with shoulder specialists but also with doctors from various other fields.

We gained a great deal of insight from observing Professor Oh’s surgeries. His approach to postoperative data management was particularly impressive and served as a great reference. Our visit to the legendary Professor Rhee was equally remarkable. Despite being nearly 70 years old, he performs around 500 surgeries annually, all on his own. His vitality was truly astonishing. In Busan, Professor Noh also kindly took us sightseeing after surgery and treated us to a delicious meal of ganjang gejang. His kindness was a great comfort to me. On the final day, we had the honor of presenting at KSES 2025. It was a truly meaningful experience to deliver our presentation in such an impressive venue and to reconnect with many professors who had supported us throughout the fellowship at the networking event.

Throughout the entire program, I was continually inspired by the advanced surgical techniques, meticulous procedures, and the generosity of Korean surgeons. The hospitality extended by each institution, combined with the open and enthusiastic exchange of ideas, created an unforgettable experience that has greatly enriched my perspective as an orthopedic surgeon.

This fellowship not only deepened my clinical knowledge but also enabled me to build lasting relationships with colleagues in Korea. I am confident that these connections will serve as a strong foundation for future academic and clinical collaboration between our countries.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Korean Shoulder and Elbow Society, the Japanese Shoulder Society, and all the professors and staff who supported me throughout this incredible journey. I hope to apply the insights gained through this experience to enhance patient care and further contribute to international cooperation in the field of shoulder surgery.

Yoshihiro Hirakawa
Ishikiriseki hospital, Osaka, Japan