Welcome from the Host City

I wish to extend my warmest congratulations on the opening of the International Federation of Automatic Control (IFAC) World Congress 2026.

I would also like to offer a heartfelt welcome to all the researchers and engineers visiting Busan from 75 countries around the world. My deepest gratitude also goes out to the IFAC, the Institute of Control, Robotics and Systems, as well as the Organizing Committee for their dedicated, long-term preparations in bringing this congress to fruition.

Having Busan host the IFAC World Congress is particularly significant, as it marks the event’s return to Korea for the first time in 18 years since the 17th IFAC World Congress was held in Seoul in 2008.

Centered around its world-renowned port, Busan serves as a vital hub connecting industries across southeastern Korea, including shipbuilding, maritime affairs, logistics, automotive, and machinery. From vessel operations to cargo unloading and transfers, facilities and systems across Busan’s industrial sites are interconnected in real time. Without sophisticated automatic control systems, ensuring the safety and efficiency of these processes would be nearly impossible. I hope this congress inspires vibrant discussions on new possibilities for automatic control technologies here in Busan, a city where world-leading research meets dynamic industrial applications.

With advances in artificial intelligence, the importance of automatic control has become even more critical. While AI can make decisions through data learning, continuous sensing and feedback remain essential for adjusting machine movements to changing environments and ensuring stable system operations. As such, autonomous ships, smart ports, industrial robots, and advanced manufacturing systems can achieve true reliability only when AI and automatic control work in complete harmony with one another.

I am looking forward to the exchanges at this congress that will hopefully lead to international research collaborations and evolve into substantial innovations that ultimately enhance safety and productivity at industrial sites. I would also like to express my appreciation for organizing free public lectures, offering the citizens and students of Busan a valuable opportunity to explore cutting-edge research in AI and robotics, and to envision the future transformations to come.

I wish all participants of the IFAC World Congress 2026 meaningful achievements and lasting new relationships. In addition, I hope you take some time to fully experience the vibrant energy and unique charms of Busan during your stay here. Once again, congratulations on the opening of the IFAC World Congress 2026. Thank you.