In 2002, the Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology (KICT) concluded a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with China’s Institute of Water Resources and Hydropower Research (IWHR). Since then, the two institutions have taken turns hosting annual joint seminars to exchange insights and share achievements in construction technology, fostering mutual growth and cooperation.

The 19th KICT–IWHR Joint Seminar was held in China from October 13 to 17 this year.

As an official guest of IWHR, the KICT also participated in the opening ceremony and plenary session of this year’s Great Rivers Forum, held in China. The Great Rivers Forum serves as a flagship international academic event associated with River, an international journal published by IWHR, and provides a global platform for sharing research findings and policy insights related to river engineering and governance.

This year’s joint seminar comprised four sessions covering water resources and river management in the context of climate change; smart technologies for flood and drought response; the installation and maintenance of smart dams; and water environments and ecosystems. Researchers from both institutions presented their respective research achievements and technological needs. Through these discussions, the KICT and IWHR explored opportunities for joint research and development, reaffirming the importance of their long-standing and sustainable partnership.

Members of the KICT and IWHR at this year’s joint seminar