The International Hospital Federation (IHF), in partnership with the Korean Hospital Association (KHA), is organising the 49th World Hospital Congress (WHC 2026), which will take place from 20 to 22 October 2026 at the COEX Magok Convention Centre, Seoul, South Korea. Pre-congress activities, including workshops, hospital visits, governance sessions and a welcome reception, are scheduled for 19 October. The event will also be available online.
Under the theme “Global Learning, Local Action for Every Patient”, the congress brings together hospital leaders and decision-makers, as well as health organisations from around the world, to share knowledge, exchange innovative ideas and explore solutions to the sector’s challenges.
Call for Abstracts – WHC 2026
Professionals from hospitals, healthcare organisations, professional associations, government bodies, and academic and research institutions are invited to submit abstracts for oral or poster presentations across the five scientific tracks of the congress.
Submission deadline: 27 February 2026
More information: WHC 2026 Call for Abstracts
YEL 2026 Programme – Emerging Leaders
The YEL (Young Executive Leaders) 2026 programme is aimed at hospital leaders aged up to 40 who are affiliated with IHF members. The programme offers online masterclasses, group projects and an in-person workshop during WHC 2026, culminating in a graduation ceremony on 19 October.
Application deadline: 26 January 2026
More information and applications: YEL 2026
Why participate?
Sustainability and the Seoul experience
WHC 2026 integrates sustainability as one of the key strands of its scientific programme and seeks to reduce the event’s carbon footprint. Seoul combines technological innovation with a rich cultural heritage, offering unique experiences in gastronomy, entertainment and tourism.
Learn more about the congress: WHC 2026
