The 2024 Conference of the Korean Society of Breeding was held from June 26th to 28th at the Ramada Hotel in Jeju Island. The conference consisted of six plenary sessions and 51 concurrent oral presentations, attracting over 600 scholars and researchers. The plenary sessions included presentations by four distinguished Korean scientists, as well as Dr. Zhang Xingping, a researcher from the Peking University Institute of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, and Professor Ehan Ersoz from the University of Illinois, USA.

 

 

Under the theme "Precision Breeding and Germplasm Innovation in Watermelon," Dr. Xingping Zhang delivered a plenary presentation, providing a comprehensive overview of the latest achievements in watermelon breeding and germplasm innovation at the institute, while also highlighting the development status of the research institute. The presentation sparked great interest and discussions among the attendees, garnering wide attention. Professor Yong-hoon Park, the conference chair from Pusan National University, remarked, "We are honored to have you here in Korea and listen to your brilliant presentation."

 

During the conference, Dr. Zhang had in-depth discussions with Professor Park regarding potential research collaborations and the possibility of training doctoral students. Professor Park showed keen interest, stating, "Your ideas are fascinating, and I am willing to extend this collaborative opportunity to our entire institute." This participation and exchange will open up new opportunities for cooperation between the institute and Korean universities in the field of breeding.