WONCA APR 2025 Report: Reflecting on Success in Busan

The 26th WONCA Asia Pacific Regional Conference 2025 (WONCA APR 2025), held from April 24 to 27 in Busan, Republic of Korea, concluded successfully and left a strong impression on all participants.

With the theme “Primary Care Transformation: Implementing High-value, High-quality Care!” the conference brought together over 1,200 family medicine professionals from 41 countries to share knowledge and experience.

From the very first day, the passion and energy of participants reflected the value of international collaboration. The conference served not only as a venue for academic exchange and exploring innovation, but also as a meaningful journey of learning and inspiration.

Academic Program Highlights

This year’s academic program consisted of 4 plenary lectures, 27 seminars, 23 workshops, 226 oral presentations, and 277 poster presentations. A wide range of timely and essential topics were addressed across the fields of family medicine and primary care.

Plenary Lectures

The seminars and workshops covered a wide range of topics, including the transformation of primary care systems in the post-COVID-19 era, the practical application of artificial intelligence and digital therapeutics, training and competency development for family physicians, care models for the elderly and vulnerable populations, integrated mental health services, community-based approaches, and strategies addressing health inequities and global health.

These presentations helped participants gain a broader understanding of practical case studies and policy trends from various countries, and provided new insights and perspectives based on accumulated experiences in different healthcare settings. Through these sessions, participants were able to gather valuable inspiration for shaping more inclusive and sustainable primary care systems in their own contexts.

Above all, the academic program served as a vivid stage showcasing the professionalism, experience, and commitment of healthcare experts across the Asia-Pacific region. It offered participants not just a transfer of knowledge, but an opportunity for mutual learning and growth.

Social Program Highlights

The diverse social programs added further richness to the overall conference experience. During the opening ceremony, welcome remarks were delivered by leaders from WONCA and national representatives, reaffirming a shared vision for the advancement of family medicine.

At the welcome reception, a parody performance of Rosé and Bruno Mars’s “APT” songs brought great energy to the evening, as participants danced together and created a festive, united atmosphere.

The Gala Dinner offered a joyful evening celebrating collective achievements in family medicine through music and fine dining, creating a memorable occasion for social connection.

The Sunrise Run allowed participants to enjoy Busan’s beautiful coastline while promoting health and camaraderie.

Through this variety of social programs, participants were able to connect more deeply, exchange culture, and build lasting memories beyond the academic sessions.

Looking Ahead

The success of WONCA APR 2025 was made possible above all by the active participation and passion of every attendee. The meaningful conversations, academic exchanges, and cultural connections shared during the conference will serve as a valuable foundation for the continued advancement of primary care around the world.

The WONCA APR 2025 Organizing Committee extends its heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their invaluable contributions, and hopes that the experiences and connections made in Busan will continue to inspire your journey in family medicine.

Thank you.