SEOUL, May 31 (Korea Bizwire) – The Korea Institute of Machinery & Materials (KIMM) and Chungnam National University Hospital announced yesterday that they are teaming up to conduct a number of research and development projects, including a 3D printing-based ear reconstruction procedure.

The announcement came yesterday after officials from both parties signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at Chungnam National University Hospital, which will see the two groups working closely together on a number of projects ranging from the development of medical robots and health monitoring services to sharing research staff and equipment.

Since December, the two groups have met a number of times to establish common ground and set a foundation for the new initiative.

The KIMM says the decision to work with Chungnam Hospital has been made more meaningful as both entities came to an agreement on the scope of the joint research projects, with one of the most controversial and interesting ventures involving a 3D printing-based ear reconstruction procedure.

Using 3D printing technology, the South Korean researchers hope to create an ear that is almost identical to a real one, modeled after the shape of each patient’s ear, which will then be tested on animals first.

Based on cartilage cells grown by the medical research team at Chungnam National University Hospital, the KIMM will conduct research with the aim of developing 3D bioprinting technology for ear reconstruction.

“In support of the city’s efforts to become specialized in the fourth industrial revolution, we believe it’s essential to conduct collective research with a number of organizations in different fields of study, with the aim of useful research outcomes,” said Song Min-ho, the director of Chungnam National University Hospital.

In addition, the medical research team also plans to develop a precise health monitoring machine that people can wear at all times to check pulse and blood pressure on the spot, a feature the KIMM expects to be of great help in the case of an emergency.

Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)