Research ethics framework recognized again; accreditation valid through 2029

An aerial view of Sahmyook University in Nowon-gu, Seoul. [Sahmyook University]
An aerial view of Sahmyook University in Nowon-gu, Seoul. [Sahmyook University]

By Jung Joo-won, The Herald Business

Sahmyook University announced it has received reaccreditation in the Ministry of Health and Welfare's first-half 2026 Institutional Review Board (IRB) evaluation and accreditation program. The certification is valid for three years, through April 27, 2029.

An IRB is an independent body that reviews research protocols and oversees studies involving human subjects or human-derived materials to ensure they meet ethical standards and safety requirements. Under the Bioethics and Safety Act, revised in 2013, all such research must receive IRB approval before proceeding.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare's IRB evaluation and accreditation program is designed to strengthen protections for research subjects and establish a research ethics framework in line with international standards. It began as a pilot assessment in 2013, moved to a mandatory evaluation system in 2016, and transitioned to a formal accreditation program in 2021.

Sahmyook University first received accreditation in the inaugural evaluation cycle in 2023 and has now secured reaccreditation. The university said the result again affirmed its systems for protecting research subjects and its capacity to manage research ethics.

The accreditation allows the university to continue handling IRB review services for external institutions in addition to its own on-campus research reviews. It also entitles the university to bonus points when applying for government-funded research projects, including those under the health and medical technology research and development program.

Lee Seung-won, chair of Sahmyook University's IRB, said the reaccreditation reflects the institution's sustained commitment to research ethics and the protection of research subjects. "We will continue to strengthen support so that researchers can conduct their work in an ethical and safe environment," he said.


jookapooka@heraldcorp.com