Pusan National University (PNU) hosted the 19th International Conference on Regional Innovation and Cooperation in Asia (RICA 2026) from November 5 to 7, bringing together economists and researchers from across Asia, including Korea, China, Japan, and Thailand. The conference provided a platform to discuss technological transformation, economic growth, and the future of the Asian economy. First launched in 2006 at Ritsumeikan University's Biwako-Kusatsu Campus (BKC) in Japan, RICA has served as an international academic forum connecting leading universities and research institutions across Asia to address shared economic challenges and expand research collaboration.

This year's conference was held under the theme “Technological Frontiers and the Future of Asian Economic Growth,” focusing on key economic challenges facing Asia, the impact of technological advances on industrial structures and local communities, and policy directions for sustainable economic growth. Three keynote lectures explored these issues from different national and academic perspectives. Professor Yuthana Sethapramote of Thailand's National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) discussed climate risks and financial stability. Professor Kang-Kook Lee of Ritsumeikan University in Japan shared insights into Korea's new growth model and green industrial policy. Finally, Professor Bin Wang of Jinan University in China examined China's population aging and monetary policy. Reflecting the conference's international nature, PNU also introduced an AI-powered real-time multilingual interpretation system, providing subtitles in five languages: Korean, English, Chinese, Japanese, and Thai. This enabled participants from different linguistic backgrounds to engage in academic discussions and exchange ideas more seamlessly.

Through RICA 2026, PNU brought together academic discussions and cross-border communication, further strengthening its role as a platform for international research exchange. Building on this initiative, PNU will continue to serve as a bridge between international research institutions and regional policy research institutions, expanding opportunities for joint international research and collaboration on regional economic policy.

Photo: Participants at the 19th International Conference on Regional Innovation and Cooperation in Asia (RICA 2026).