This past February, the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) hosted an inspiring international symposium on ‘Emerging Biomaterials.’1 The event welcomed over 300 researchers and distinguished speakers from more than twenty countries. Yet its true heart lay in paying tribute to the extraordinary Professor Tae Gwan Park. His tragic passing last year at the height of his career left an irreplaceable void in the global biomaterials community.

Professor Park’s impact on the field was truly remarkable. He began his academic journey at Seoul National University School of Engineering in 1980, where he quickly distinguished himself through early publications in top journals. After earning his bachelor’s degree, he obtained a Ph.D. in Bioengineering from the University of Washington, Seattle, in 1990 under the mentorship of Professor Allan S. Hoffman. In 1996, he accepted a faculty position at KAIST, where he dedicated over two decades to teaching, mentoring students, and conducting pioneering research until his untimely death. His accolades included the prestigious Clemson Award from the Society for Biomaterials and the Creative Knowledge Award from the Korean government.2

At the symposium, Professor Hoffman delivered the keynote address, celebrating Park’s inventive spirit. He reflected on Professor Park’s development of “smart” poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) hydrogels—materials that reversibly shift between soluble and gel states in response to temperature changes—at the University of Washington.3 These versatile hydrogels have led to significant advances in biomedical applications, particularly in rapid paper-based diagnostic assays for detecting infectious diseases. Hoffman emphasized the global need for accessible “Point of Care” diagnostics to curb outbreaks in densely populated regions and praised Park’s vision of translating benchside discoveries into bedside solutions.

Reflecting on my own interactions with Professor Park, I recall his generous mentorship and open-door policy during our discussions about biomaterials for tissue regeneration. His profound expertise inspired students and captivated colleagues alike. Prominent scientists including Jeffrey Hubbell, Melody Swartz, and Jackie Ying paid tribute to his collaborative nature and progressive intellect. Although Professor Robert S. Langer from MIT was unable to attend in person, he shared a moving video tribute applauding Park’s exceptional problem-solving skills and his rare ability to unite researchers across disciplines.

While we deeply mourn Professor Park’s loss, we can find comfort in the wise words of British philosopher Alan Watts from his influential book, The Wisdom of Insecurity: “Life and death are not two opposed forces; they are simply two ways of looking at the same force, for the movement of change is as much the builder as the destroyer.”4 This reflection invites us to honor Park’s enduring legacy in biomaterials research. His visionary spirit and significant scientific contributions continue to guide and inspire our collective endeavors, ensuring that his influence remains woven into every aspect of our ongoing discoveries and innovations.

As we move forward, let us carry the torch of curiosity and commitment to excellence that Professor Park embodied. His passion for biomaterials and his dedication to nurturing the next generation of scientists will undoubtedly shape the future of this vital discipline.

https://doi.org/10.5051/jpis.2012.42.2.31