The 3^rd International Workshop on Endoscopic Ultrasonography and Advanced Therapeutic Endoscopy, Seoul, Korea, March 7 - 9, 2003

Dear colleagues,

It gives me immense pleasure to present to the readers of Endoscopy a supplement dedicated to our 3^rd International Workshop on EUS and Advanced Therapeutic Endoscopy in Seoul, Korea. This workshop organized by the Digestive Disease Center, Soon Chun Hyang University Hospital, was held from 7^th - 9^th of March 2003 in Seoul, Korea.

Over the past few years a multitude of new techniques and technology has kept the field of gastroenterology rapidly evolving. Various minimally invasive techniques for diagnosis and treatment of GI diseases have been developed and are rapidly replacing our traditional treatment practices. Never before has the field of endoscopy seen so many new technological innovations within such a short period. With the application of EUS, MRCP and most recently virtual reality imaging in treatment of GI disorders, the gastroenterologist of today is facing more challenges than ever before for a sound judgment of optimal management of his patients.

It is, therefore, no surprise that we are in constant search for information pertaining to recent developments in our fields. Our 3^rd International Workshop was a step to appraise ourselves of the recent developments in the field of GI endoscopy and to achieve a consensus on management of various GI diseases. This workshop was a unique opportunity for sharing our current knowledge and achievements in the field of GI endoscopy.

An extensive coverage of up-to-date information concerning a variety of topics of EUS and advanced therapeutic endoscopy was the main theme of this workshop. A number of special lectures tuned to the latest information and also live demonstrations from world-renowned endoscopists gave ample opportunity for the delegates to update and increase their knowledge in every field of endoscopy. I am sure this workshop was extremely appealing to individuals at all the levels of involvement in the field of endoscopy from beginners to even the most seasoned endoscopists.

This supplement contains selected articles written by the invited faculty members of this workshop. This supplement will be highly rewarding and stimulating to all those valuable readers who could not attend this scientific meeting due to various academic obligations. I also hope that this great event will continue to be held at our center in the coming years and will be a constant source of attraction for endoscopists worldwide.

Professor Chan Sup Shim
Chairman, 3^rd International Workshop on EUS &
Advanced Therapeutic Endoscopy
Seoul, Korea, 2003

Professor Chan Sup Shim