SEOUL NATIONAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Could you briefly introduce yourself and your professional background?

My name is Ludovico Carbone, 29-year-old, final-year resident in General Surgery at the University of Siena (Italy). From June to December 2025, I completed an international fellowship program in the Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery at SNUH.

1. How did you first learn about Seoul National University Hospital, and what motivated you to choose SNUH for your fellowship training?

My interest in SNUH was inspired by the long-standing collaboration between my supervisors, Professors Franco Roviello and Daniele Marrelli, pioneers in gastric cancer research within the Italian Group for Research on Gastric Cancer (GIRCG), and Professors Han-Kwang Yang and Hyuk-Joon Lee at SNUH. Through international meetings, we planned my fellowship as a key step in my final year of surgical training. This undoubtedly gave me an extraordinary opportunity to deepen my understanding of cancer under the guidance of world-renowned experts.

2. What has been the most valuable experience during your fellowship at SNUH—and what are the key things you hope to take away from this training ?

During my six months at SNUH, I observed daily the striking differences in surgical culture compared to Italy: higher case volume, faster decision-making, and a relentless focus on efficiency. Academic discussions, tumor boards, and collaborative research meetings have, in turn, refined my critical thinking and broadened my global perspective on the different Eastern-Western approaches to gastric cancer.

3. In your view, what distinguishes SNUH from other institutions in terms of clinical training or patient care?

What impressed me most was the incredible culture here, including strong teamwork, perfect organization, and total dedication to patients above everything else. It is surprising how everyone, from surgeons, residents and fellows to nurses and staff, shows real curiosity and takes responsibility for every single patient.

4. How would you describe the mentorship and academic atmosphere here?

The academic environment was equally inspiring: approachable mentors, open exchange of ideas, exceptional openness to teaching, and constant encouragement to contribute to research- all of which create a stimulating environment where learning never stops!

I also wrote about SNUH for Himetop – The History of Medicine Topographical Database, sharing the story of the hospital. The article can be accessed at: http://himetop.wikidot.com/seoul 

5. What is the most important thing you have gained from your time at SNUH (e.g. knowledge, skills, perspective, network)?

This fellowship allowed me to learn from some of the world's most distinguished surgeons and researchers, strengthened my surgical foundations, and opened my mind to new ways of practicing medicine with greater humility, precision, and purpose-but above all, taught me the true value of always striving to be a better doctor and person than I was yesterday.

6. What has been the most memorable moment in Korea, either inside or outside the hospital?

Beyond professional growth, my experience in Korea was personally transformative. I immersed myself in a new culture, learned to appreciate Korean cuisine (even kimchi, which I now eat daily!), and built lasting friendships with people from around the world. 

7. What message would you like to share with future international fellows considering SNUH?

To future international fellows considering SNUH, my message is simple: come with an open mind and be ready to learn, share, and be challenged. I was fortunate to receive generous guidance and support from my mentors and colleagues, which made this experience truly meaningful.

8. Please feel free to add any other thoughts or experiences you would like to share with our readers:

Exploring Seoul, surfing, diving, hiking, and skiing gave me time to unplug, think deeply, and grow as a person. This whole adventure has profoundly enriched me, pushing me to use everything I've learned back home and be even kinder in my work. I truly hope to return here again in the future.