Dear Colleagues and Friends,

On behalf of the Korean Physical Therapy Association (KPTA), it is my great honor and privilege to welcome you to the 17th Asian Confederation of Physical Therapy (ACPT) Congress in Suwon, Korea. We are truly delighted to host this important gathering and to welcome friends and colleagues from across Asia and around the world.

Since its establishment in 1980 in Taipei, the ACPT has provided a vital platform for physical therapy professionals to unite, exchange ideas, and inspire one another. From the first General Assembly in Bangkok in 1981 to today, the Confederation has expanded to ten member associations and carried forward a proud tradition of collaboration and growth. For more than four decades, ACPT has stood as a symbol of our shared commitment to advancing physical therapy, fostering solidarity, and promoting the health and well-being of communities across Asia.

The theme of this Congress, “Redefining the Boundaries of Physical Therapy: Sustainability, Collaboration, and Innovation”, speaks directly to our vision for the future. In an era marked by rapid social, technological, and demographic change, physical therapists are called to respond with creativity and courage. Sustainability reminds us of our duty to create healthier societies for generations to come. Collaboration highlights the strength we gain when we work hand in hand across borders. Innovation challenges us to broaden our roles, embrace new knowledge, and reimagine our practices to better serve patients and communities.

Beyond these professional and academic goals, the ACPT has always been a celebration of friendship. Every Congress is not only an occasion to learn and share, but also to deepen the bonds that connect us across nations, cultures, and generations. It is through these friendships that we find the strength to stand together, to share wisdom, and to chart a collective path forward for our profession.

We must also turn our eyes toward the future and invest in the next generation of young professionals. They are the ones who will carry forward our legacy, shaping the future of physical therapy with passion, creativity, and resilience. It is our shared responsibility to support and empower them as they take on this role.

As you gather in Suwon, I hope you will not only gain new insights and ideas, but also experience the warmth of Korean hospitality, the cultural richness of our historic city, and the spirit of unity that defines the ACPT. May this Congress strengthen our friendships, spark new collaborations, and inspire us all to advance physical therapy together.

With warmest regards,

Daelim Yang
President
Korean Physical Therapy Association KPTA