Welcome Message
Program Overview
Sponsor the 12^th APVRS Congress
Visa Information
Busan, Korea’s Second City

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

It is with immense pleasure that I welcome you to the 12^th APVRS Congress, held in the modern city of Seoul this year.

Over the years, the APVRS Congress has grown in stature and in scientific content as one of the key ophthalmology conferences in the Asia-Pacific region, attracting leading vitreoretinal specialists from around the world to share their knowledge and experience. With so many renowned speakers, the Congress will provide excellent opportunities to gain insight into the latest discoveries and innovations in the vitreoretinal field. Additionally, the APVRS Annual Congress provides a platform to network and establish collaborations and friendships.

I must extend my heartfelt thanks to Dr Won Ki Lee, the Congress President, and his team for their dedicated and tireless efforts in organizing such an outstanding meeting. Furthermore, Seoul is a vibrant city known for its advanced technology, popular music and delicious street food. Do take some time to enjoy yourself here!

I look forward to seeing you all in Seoul! 

With best regards,

Dennis S C LAM
President
Asia-Pacific Vitreo-retina Society

The 12th APVRS Congress will begin on Friday, December 14, 2018, and last for 3 days. An overview of the program schedule is given below. More detailed information will be available in due course.

Want to tell the vitreo-retina community about exciting new products and innovations? Interested in supporting the premier meeting for retinal specialists in the Asia-Pacific region? We want to hear from you!

With a yearly average of nearly 1,600 delegates from almost 40 countries, the APVRS Congress offers a wide range of exhibiting and sponsorship opportunities for companies and organizations from around the world. The sponsorship prospectus for APVRS 2018 is now available for download on the Congress website.

A valid passport and Korean visa are required for all visitors to the Republic of Korea. However, a total of 104 countries have some type of visa waiver agreement with the Korean government, where visitors may enter the country without a visa for either a 30- or 90-day period.

Delegates who do require a visa to enter Korea are encouraged to begin the application process at their earliest convenience. Visas can be issued by Korean embassies or consular offices in the applicant’s country of residence.

After registering for APVRS 2018, delegates can generate a letter of invitation for visa application purposes via the Congress system. For a complete list of countries with visa waivers and further details, please click here.

Just a few hours away from Seoul by bullet train, Busan is Korea’s second largest city and a destination known for its beautiful natural scenery and delicious seafood.

In the city’s southern district is Oryukdo Island, which actually consists of 5 or 6 small uninhabited islands. Standing on the transparent skywalk extending over the sea, visitors can see all the way to Japan on a clear day. A nearby coastal walking trail connects to scenic Igidae Park and provides stunning views of the city skyline.

Another popular natural destination is Haeundae, which includes sandy Haeundae beach with soaring skyscrapers and mountains as a striking backdrop. Nearby Dongbaekseom Island is known for its red camellia blossoms in winter.

In Central Busan, visitors can get a feel for the city’s history as an important port in the region. The iconic Jagalchi Fish Market serves businesses and tourists alike with its impressive selection of seafood. Arrive early in the morning to see the daily catch brought in, then summon up the courage to order san-nakji—freshly killed octopus that is still wriggling!

Formerly a refugee settlement, Gamcheon Cultural Village has now earned the nickname “the Santorini of Busan” after local university students redecorated the buildings as an art project. Now, the unique revitalized village is home to many art galleries, museums and cafes just waiting to be featured on your Instagram feed!

Phone: (852) 3943-5889
Fax: (852) 2715-9490
Email: secretariat@apvrs.org 
Website: http://2018.apvrs.org/