The ACC and Korean Society of Cardiology (KSC) hosted the ACC Asia 2026 Together with KSC Spring Conference in Gyeongju, South Korea, in April. The conference brought together leading experts and cardiovascular clinicians from Asia and across the globe to examine emerging trends and evidence-based approaches to the prevention and management of heart disease.

"This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to the highest standards of clinical excellence beyond national boundaries. Guided by a common vision, we strive to advance global innovation and revitalize cardiovascular research, ensuring that the latest scientific advances are effectively translated into clinical practice," says Seok-Min Kang, MD, PhD, FACC, ACC Asia conference co-chair and president of KSC.

Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the latest cardiovascular diagnostic methods and treatment strategies and engage in discussions with expert faculty on hot topics ranging from heart failure to prevention. Key sessions addressed issues facing cardiovascular clinicians throughout the region, including use of AI, global disparities in STEMI care delivery, localized implementation of clinical guidelines, and more.

The conference also provided unique forums to engage with Expo partners and discuss emerging research from across Asia through abstract and case study presentations. Additionally, three ACC Asia Chapter teams competed in FIT Jeopardy, with Team Singapore advancing to compete at the ACC Annual Scientific Session in Houston in April 2027.

"I believe the importance of the ACC international conferences lie in their ability to unite clinicians, researchers and trainees from diverse health systems the world over in the mission to improve cardiovascular care and improve heart health globally. Celebrating their 10th Anniversary, these meetings foster a global exchange of evidence-based science, best practice, innovation and cutting-edge research," says Kwan Seung Lee, MD, FACC, ACC Asia conference co-chair.

In addition to clinical education, the ACC welcomed more than 20 new FACCs from throughout the region during the Convocation and closing ceremony.

"The FACC designation reflects a strong commitment to improving patient care," says ACC President Roxana Mehran, MD, FACC. "As cardiovascular disease remains the world's leading cause of death, we are proud to recognize these individuals for advancing the ACC's mission and congratulate our newest FACCs on this achievement."

• See the full list of new FACCs.
• Read about one of the abstracts presented at the meeting, looking at sex-specific differences in cardiovascular disease risk factors in South Korea.

Keywords: Cardiology Magazine, ACC Publications, CM-Jun-2026, Global Health, Asia, Republic of Korea, ACC International