In 1981, the activities of the hospice cares were started by the students of the Catholic University. This was the first palliative care activity in Korea. Afterward hospice and palliative care services have been expanded to many hospitals. In recognition of its accomplishments and the important role it could play in strengthening WHO' s program on palliative care and pain relief, the college was designated as a WHO Collaborating Centre for Hospice and Palliative Care in 1995.

Major Activities

Education

• - To train hospice professionals and specially educated volunteers by providing the domesticand overseas training programs.

Research

• - The development of standards for hospice nurses and accompanying management strategies.
• - The establishment of "A model for a Hospice Centre in Korea", which may be applicable to other countries in the Region.

Meetings and Publications

• - National and international meetings.
• - Annual research journal and news letter.
• - Translation and publication of books on Hospice/ Palliative Care. Service
• - Visiting home hospice/palliative care.
• - Monthly group meeting with family members experiencing grief and bereavement. National and International Exchanges - The exchange of information, networking, and resource-sharing among palliative care experts and institutions.
• - The collaboration with WHO in developing curricula and teaching materials, training health professionals and volunteers on hospice and palliative care and conducting relevant research.