At the 2025 Science Journalism Night—an award ceremony held at Lotte Hotel Seoul on November 25—Cho Ah-ra, Head of the Public Relations Division at the Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology (KICT), became the first member of the KICT to receive the Science Communicator’s Award.

At the event, congratulatory remarks were delivered by Lee Eun-jung, President of the Korea Science Journalists Association, and Bae Kyung-hoon, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Science and ICT.

Each year, the Korea Science Journalists Association (KSJA) recognizes journalists, scientists, and public relations professionals from various sectors for their contributions to advancing science journalism. The Science Communicator’s Award, presented during Science Journalism Night, is conferred in the public relations category—one of four award categories—and honors outstanding public relations activities that contribute to journalistic achievements in science. Cho was recognized for her leadership in facilitating media coverage of the KICT’s R&D achievements, which has helped enhance public awareness and understanding of science.

The KICT regards Cho’s recognition as an opportunity to further strengthen its role as a government-funded research institute committed to sustained and in-depth communication with the public, contributing to the continued development of science journalism and the broader dissemination of scientific culture.

KICT Head of Public Relations Division Cho Ah-ra (third from right) with other award recipients