Respected members of the Korean Association for the Study of English Language and Linguistics (KASELL),

Greetings. This is Jae-Young Lee from the Department of English Language and Literature at Seoul National University. I wish you a prosperous New Year filled with success in all your endeavors and significant academic achievements.

It is with immense honor and a deep sense of responsibility that I take office as the 20th president of KASELL today. First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the former presidents and executive members who have led the development and growth of our society thus far. In particular, the 19th president Prof. Hyunkee Ahn, devoted his utmost efforts last year to ensuring that our academic journal was reselected as an excellent indexed journal. In this way, thanks to the dedication and passion of the former presidents and executive members, KASELL has established a robust tradition and reputation in both academic achievements and societal contributions.

Over the past decades, KASELL has played a pivotal role in advancing English language and linguistics in Korea, broadening the horizons of academic research and education. This tradition is both our pride and a valuable legacy that must be preserved and further developed. Standing here today, I renew my commitment to honoring our society’s long-standing traditions while striving to achieve new advancements befitting the challenges of our era.

Our society now faces a period of transformation and new challenges. The field of English linguistics is becoming increasingly diverse, and advancements in digitalization and AI technology are opening new possibilities in our research and educational methodologies. To remain a leading force amid these changes, we must pursue innovation grounded in tradition.

I aim to guide our society with a focus on the following three goals. First, I will work to further invigorate platforms for academic exchange, strengthening collaborations with scholars both domestically and internationally. Second, I will strive to create a space where researchers of all generations can connect, communicate, and grow together. I will expand dialogue with young researchers and incorporate their voices to build a sustainable and forward-looking society. Third, I will ensure that the findings of English linguistics research contribute meaningfully to education and society, strengthening the link between academia and practical applications.

To achieve these objectives, your interest and participation are essential. You are the true foundation of KASELL. With your support, our society can achieve even greater progress.

Once again, I express my deepest gratitude to the former presidents and executive members who have made this moment possible. I pledge to fulfill the responsibilities entrusted to me with utmost dedication. I ask for your continued interest and collaboration as we work together for the future development of our society.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Jae-Young Lee
The 20^th President of the KASELL