In his address, Prof. Min reflected on the history and academic achievements of the KACD, while also highlighting the future vision of conservative dentistry and endodontics and the evolving role of the society. He particularly emphasized the importance of expanding international academic collaboration, upholding research ethics, and nurturing young researchers, calling for a shared sense of responsibility within the academic community.

The award was presented in recognition of Prof. Min’s long-standing dedication to academic development through his service as Editor-in-Chief of RDE and his significant contributions to enhancing the standing of the society. He has been widely credited with advancing the journal and promoting both domestic and international academic exchange.

In his acceptance remarks, Prof. Min stated, “It is a great honor to receive such a prestigious award on this meaningful occasion,” adding, “I will continue to devote my utmost efforts to the further development of RDE.” A representative of the KACD commented, “Prof. Min’s dedication and leadership have served as a vital foundation for the society’s growth. This award reflects the collective appreciation of all our members.”

Below is the English version of Prof. Min’s commemorative address. The Korean version is available in the Supplementary Material.

Distinguished members of our society, and esteemed researchers, clinicians, and readers joining us today, it is with great honor and profound significance that we gather here to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics (RDE).

In 1975, at a time when the concept of conservative dentistry was still unfamiliar in Korea, our journal took its first steps under the name Korean Journal of Operative Dentistry. It was founded through the academic passion and dedication of our pioneering scholars, who sought to share research achievements spanning both the foundations and clinical practice of conservative dentistry, thereby laying an essential cornerstone for the advancement of dental science in Korea. Half a century later, RDE has grown into a truly international journal, bringing together researchers from around the world. As you are well aware, RDE is now indexed in major international databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. This year, we reached another important milestone by receiving our first Impact Factor from Clarivate. This achievement represents not only recognition of academic quality but also the collective efforts of our entire community.

On this meaningful occasion, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to all those who have made RDE what it is today. Over the past 50 years, countless individuals have devoted themselves to the journal as editors, authors, and reviewers, shaping its history with unwavering commitment. I also extend sincere appreciation to the authors who have consistently submitted high-quality research, to the reviewers who have evaluated manuscripts with integrity and rigor, and to the readers who have placed their trust in and shown enduring support for RDE. You are, without question, the true protagonists of this journal. I offer my highest respect for your dedication and passion.

Looking back, the past 50 years have been a period of profound transformation in dentistry. Restorative materials have evolved from simple filling substances into bioactive and intelligent materials, while endodontic treatment has expanded beyond infection control toward tissue regeneration. Digital technologies and artificial intelligence have become deeply integrated into both research and clinical practice, and conservative dentistry has emerged as a truly interdisciplinary science. Throughout these changes, RDE has served as an open platform for sharing new knowledge and as an academic bridge connecting generations of scholars.

Today’s 50th anniversary is not merely a commemoration of time passed. It is also a moment of reflection—one that asks not only how we began, but also where we are headed. I firmly believe that RDE will continue to build upon its strong traditions while embracing new innovations, moving confidently toward a broader global horizon. We will actively welcome research in fields that shape the future of dentistry, including biomaterials science, regenerative dentistry, digital dentistry, and artificial intelligence-based diagnosis and treatment, while steadfastly pursuing both scientific rigor and clinical relevance.

Furthermore, RDE will continue to place the highest priority on academic integrity and research ethics. We will strengthen transparency in the editorial and peer-review processes, expand international collaboration and networks, and provide researchers with a fair, dignified, and trustworthy scholarly forum. We are also committed to creating opportunities for young researchers to grow, fostering a community in which we learn and advance together. This 50th anniversary marks not only a celebration of our achievements, but also the starting point of a new and more mature half-century for RDE.

Finally, I would like once again to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has accompanied RDE on its 50-year journey. Today’s gathering honors the accomplishments of the past while also serving as a promise for the future. Just as RDE has walked hand in hand with the progress of dentistry over the past five decades, I sincerely hope that it will continue to shine as a guiding light for the future of our field.

With your continued interest and support, I pledge to you, as Editor-in-Chief, that RDE will move forward with an even greater sense of vision and responsibility—serving as a bridge between basic science and clinical practice, and between tradition and innovation.

Thank you very much.

Editor-in-Chief

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