Payap University – Yonsei University Launch a Historic Initiative in Global Humanistic Medicine April 9–11, 2026 | Seoul, Republic of Korea Payap University, led by its President, Apicha Insuwan, together with Asst.Prof.Dr. Wanlapa Songprakhun, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Research, Asst. Khattiyaporn Khontiang, Dean of McCormick Faculty of Nursing and Dr. Nattharin Paethayanon, United Board Fellow (2025–2026), Faculty of Pharmacy, currently on duty at Severance Hospital, Yonsei University visited Yonsei University to participate in the signing of a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Yonsei Medical Mission Center, Yonsei Institute for Global Health, and Yonsei University Health System, under the gracious reception of Professor Chin Yong Pak, M.D., Ph.D., Director of the Medical Mission Center. A New Paradigm: Global Humanistic Medicine This landmark collaboration marks the launch of a new paradigm—Global Humanistic Medicine—aimed at addressing inequities in access to healthcare among vulnerable and underserved populations worldwide. The initiative is driven by: • Payap University’s vision to advance international programs in medicine, public health, and health promotion • Strategic academic leadership and international coordination by Dr. Nattharin Paethayanon • Support from the United Board for Christian Higher Education in Asia and the Church of Christ in Thailand Foundation Grounded in the shared philosophies of both institutions: • Payap University: Truth and Service • Yonsei University: The Truth Shall Set You Free Establishment of the Payap–Yonsei Mission Center for Humanistic Medicine To translate vision into action, both institutions have jointly established the: Payap–Yonsei Mission Center for Humanistic Medicine A flagship unit under the Office of the President, Payap University, serving as an international hub for innovation in healthcare education and global health development. Core Functions • Development of the Humanistic Health Leadership program • Advancement of research through Routine to Research (R2R) • Expansion of regional collaboration (Mongolia, Vietnam, Indonesia) • Implementation of international fellowship programs • Promotion of Interprofessional Education From Classroom to Real-World Impact The Center emphasizes not only academic excellence but also transformative action through: Community Engagement • Joint Medical Missions in collaboration with Yonsei medical teams and Global Mission Service • The Homegrown Scholars Program, empowering underserved youth to become healthcare professionals serving their own communities Global Network • Faculty and student exchange programs with Yonsei University • Formation of service-oriented global health leaders grounded in humanistic values • Strengthening international competitiveness and collaboration Toward Borderless Healthcare This partnership represents not only an academic milestone but also a strategic commitment by Thailand and the Republic of Korea to advancing global health leadership. Its long-term goals include: • Reducing structural healthcare inequities • Building a borderless healthcare ecosystem • Upholding human dignity through sustainable global health systems A Partnership for Humanity Payap University expresses its sincere appreciation to H.E. Thani Saengrat, Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of Korea, for graciously witnessing this historic signing. This achievement reflects the transformative power of education for humanity—not only generating knowledge, but also inspiring hope for the global community.