The European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) is one of the leading international organizations in cataract and refractive surgery, bringing together ophthalmologists and researchers from around the world to share the latest advances in clinical research, surgical techniques, and patient care.

ESCRS 2026 was held in London, UK, from September 11–15, 2026.

At this year’s meeting, Dr. David Sung Yong Kang, Medical Director of EYEREUM Eye Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, Korea, participated as a speaker in three sessions, including two official ESCRS Instructional Courses and one SCHWIND Industry Satellite Symposium.

ESCRS Instructional Courses are official educational sessions designed to share specialized surgical knowledge, practical techniques, and clinical experience among ophthalmic surgeons.

Through his presentations, Dr. Kang addressed the long-term journey of refractive surgery patients—from strategies for improving precision in KLEx (Keratorefractive Lenticule Extraction) to cataract surgery planning for patients who previously underwent laser vision correction.

What Is KLEx?

KLEx (Keratorefractive Lenticule Extraction) is a form of laser vision correction that differs from LASIK, which involves creating a corneal flap, and PRK, which reshapes the corneal surface.

With KLEx, a precisely shaped lenticule is created within the corneal stroma based on the amount of vision correction required. The lenticule is then removed through a small incision to correct myopia and astigmatism.

SMILE, SMILE Pro, and SmartSight NOVA are examples of vision correction procedures based on the KLEx approach.

At EYEREUM Eye Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, KLEx—including SMILE Pro and other lenticule extraction procedures—is also an important area of ongoing clinical research and international academic exchange.

1. ESCRS Instructional Course

Dr. Kang discussed how patients who undergo KLEx earlier in life may later require cataract surgery, highlighting the importance of considering a patient’s previous corneal refractive surgery when planning future cataract treatment.

The presentation focused on a long-term perspective: refractive surgery is not only about achieving vision correction today, but also about understanding how previous procedures may influence eye care decades later.

2. ESCRS Instructional Course

In this session, Dr. Kang shared clinical insights into factors that may influence the precision and consistency of KLEx surgery.

Drawing on surgical experience and clinical research, the presentation explored practical strategies for refining lenticule extraction procedures and improving the reproducibility of surgical outcomes.

3. SCHWIND Industry Satellite Symposium

Dr. Kang also participated in the SCHWIND Industry Satellite Symposium, where he discussed the evolving landscape of refractive surgery and the importance of strategic foresight in vision correction.

The presentation emphasized looking beyond the immediate surgical result and considering how today’s treatment decisions may affect a patient’s vision and eye care later in life.

From Vision Correction Today to Eye Care for the Future

Across all three presentations, one common theme emerged: vision correction should be approached not only in terms of the immediate surgical outcome, but also as part of a patient’s lifelong eye care.

From improving the precision of KLEx procedures such as SMILE Pro to planning cataract surgery after previous refractive surgery, Dr. Kang continues to share clinical research and surgical experience with ophthalmic colleagues at international academic meetings.

EYEREUM Eye Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, Korea, will continue to advance patient-centered vision correction through ongoing clinical research, international academic exchange, and a long-term approach to eye care.