Device for Nanotechnology and Bio-Robotics image courtesy of www.fullhurst-lens.co.uk

Italy and Korea held a meaningful ceremony on Sept. 18, 2007 at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) in Seoul.

At the presence of the Italian State Undersecretary of Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Gianni Vernetti, and of the Korean Vice Minister of MOST, Hon. Chung Yoon, the President of KIST, Dr. Dongwha Kum, and the Responsible for International Relations of the Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna (SSSA), Prof. Pierdomenico Perata (on behalf of the President of SSSA, Prof. R. Varaldo), signed a Memorandum of Understanding for Scientific and Technological Cooperation between KIST and SSSA.

As first concrete action of established cooperation, a "KIST-SSSA Joint Laboratory," having stable activities in Seoul and Pisa, will be officially open. The main goal of the Joint Lab is cooperation related to Bio-robotics technologies, Robotics and Mechatronics, aimed to improve the quality of life in the two countries, slowing down age- or accident-related modifications of the neuro-muscolo-skeletal system, and so allowing the elderly or the disabled to fulfill their expectations for an active longevity or a recovery of physical difficulties.

This subject represents an important issue of highest concern in the international community and particularly for Italy and Korea where the aging of population is dramatically increasing, which demands relevant health and social care services.