Korea University Anam Hospital remote medical advancements

Korea University Anam Hospital has expanded its remote medical capabilities through new technological initiatives.

In September 2026, the hospital launched ‘Medibus’, the first initiative of its kind in the Asia-Pacific region. This project integrates smart video telemedicine technology into the ‘KUM-C Bus’ mobile medical unit, allowing on-site staff to connect with specialists in real-time to share medical data and receive expert consultations in underserved areas.

By October 2026, the hospital demonstrated a significant advancement in remote procedures by performing the first cross-border remote surgery. During the 78th Korean Urological Association academic conference, Professor Kang Seok-ho successfully operated a ‘Toumai’ surgical robot from MicroPort MedBot. Using a console in Seoul, Professor Kang controlled the robot located in Shanghai, China, approximately 870 km away, to perform surgery on an animal model.

This demonstration highlighted the potential of 5G, fiber-optic, and satellite communication technologies to reduce latency for high-precision procedures. While the technical feasibility was proven, experts noted that broader clinical use will require resolving legal and ethical challenges regarding international regulations, physician liability, insurance frameworks, patient data security, and emergency protocols for communication failures. Successful implementation could eventually extend to disaster zones, maritime environments, polar regions, and space.