By Kim Bo-eun

In recognition of extensive research they conducted into cancer treatment, three researchers were awarded the first annual Kwangdong Oncologic Academic Award Thursday.

The recipients were Ko Young-hyeh, pathology professor at Samsung Medical Center; Michael Lee, life science professor at the University of Incheon; and Park Sook-ryun, professor of internal medicine at the National Cancer Center.

The association held the award ceremony during its annual meeting at the COEX in southern Seoul.

The award was co-initiated this year by the association and Kwang Dong Pharmaceutical.

The selection of the recipients was based on the number of times they were referenced in journals listed on the Science Citation Index (SCI).

Each recipient received 5 million won and a certificate.
“We hope that the award will contribute to clinical research in the field of oncology, an association member said.

He also expressed hope that the prize will encourage researchers to find better treatments for different forms of cancer.