Practice of Cytopathology in Korea: A 40-Year Evolution Through Standardization, Digital Transformation, and Global Partnership.

Journal: Diagnostic cytopathology
Published Date: Nov 26, 2025

Abstract

Over four decades, Korea has advanced from a limited cytology service to a global model of digital and AI-integrated cytopathology. Since the founding of the Korean Society for Cytopathology (KSC) in 1986, a nationwide framework has been established-encompassing standardized practices, systematic education for specialists and cytotechnologists, and nationwide cervical screening through the National Cancer Control Program. A mandatory Quality Assurance Program (QAP) launched in 2005 ensured consistent diagnostic quality, achieving an unsatisfactory Pap test rate below 0.2% and cytology-histology discrepancy under 0.6% among over 10 million annual examinations. The 2021 STANBAI project digitized two decades of QAP slides into a standardized whole-slide image (WSI) archive, driving the development of multiple AI models. In parallel, the CytoAcademy web/mobile platform enabled interactive WSI-based education and global participation by over 200 institutions. Korea has also shared this model internationally through on-site and virtual programs in low-resource countries. By integrating national QA, digital infrastructure, AI innovation, and global training, Korea has built a future-ready cytopathology ecosystem-enhancing diagnostic precision and offering a scalable blueprint for global implementation.

Authors

  • Yosep Chong
    Department of Hospital Pathology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 271, Cheonbo-ro, Uijeongbu, 11765, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea. [email protected].
  • Ran Hong
    Department of Pathology, Chosun University College of Medicine, Gwangju, Jeolla-do, South Korea.
  • Hyeong Ju Kwon
    Department of Pathology, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Wonju, Gangwon-do, South Korea.
  • Haeryoung Kim
    Department of Pathology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
  • Lucia Kim
    Department of Pathology, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea.
  • Soon Jae Kim
    Department of Pathology, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea.
  • Yoon Jung Choi
    Research Institute, National Health Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, Korea. [email protected].

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