1. Can you please briefly summarize the paper? 

The paper reports the potential of the southern genotype of Orthohantavirus hantanense (HTNV) as a causative agent of haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in the southern Republic of Korea (ROK). Through host and clinical sampling and amplicon-based MinION sequencing, the study demonstrates genetic reassortment and clustering of patient-derived HTNV with strains from Apodemus species. These findings suggest that the southern HTNV genotype can induce HFRS in humans, highlighting the importance of active surveillance and advanced sequencing methods for detecting orthohantavirus infections in the ROK.

2. Can you please tell us the main difficulties you had in the laboratory work and how you overcame them?

In the lab, one of the biggest challenges I faced was handling clinical samples. These samples come with their limitations, so I had to be really precise and careful to avoid any mistakes that could interfere the data. Sometimes, because clinical samples vary a lot, it was tough to get the results I wanted on the first try. Unlike with animal samples, where things often work out smoothly, it took me several attempts to get it right with clinical samples. To tackle these challenges, I had to plan everything out meticulously. I had to think hard about how to make the most of each sample and set up my experiments in a way that would give me the best shot at getting good results. This careful approach helped me avoid wasting samples and still achieve the outcomes I needed, even though working with clinical samples was tricky.

3. Please introduce your laboratory, university or organization to bio-researchers in Korea.

I studied at Virology Lab., Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine in Hallym University, Chuncheon, South Korea under the supervision of Prof. Kim Won-Keun. This lab utilizes genomic technologies (Next-generation sequencing, NGS) and a variety of immunological and virological methodologies to investigate the emergence and antivirals of highly infectious viruses including Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), Hantavirus (Hantaan and Seoul viruses), Flavivirus (Zika virus), Paramyxovirus, and so on.

4. Please tell us your experiences and your thoughts related to research activities abroad.

One of the things I really appreciate about conducting research abroad is the opportunity for exploration in my field. I have access to a wide range of experimental equipment and reagents that might be hard to find in my home country. I believe this is partly due to my supervisor's strong collaborations both domestically and internationally. Being abroad also allows me to attend international conferences and connect with researchers from around the world, which exposes me to diverse perspectives and ideas. Additionally, I've noticed that research funding in South Korea is well-supported, enabling researchers to conduct thorough studies and publish impactful papers.

5. Can you provide some advice for younger scientists who have plans to study abroad?

My advice for younger scientists planning to study abroad is to set clear goals and make a solid plan to achieve them. Despite the challenges you may face during the application process, including for schools, scholarships, and visas, don't let them deter you. Once you're abroad, work diligently, seize every opportunity to learn and grow, and believe in yourself. Persistence and hard work will pay off, and success will follow. Remember to embrace the experience fully and make the most of every opportunity that comes your way.

6. Future plan?

In the future, I aim to continue my research journey in another developed country. I'm eager to explore new experiences, meet diverse individuals, and establish valuable connections within the global scientific community. My goal is to contribute to more publications and expand my presence in various journals.

7. Do you have anything else that you would like to tell Korean scientists and students?

To Korean scientists and students, I would like to emphasize the incredible opportunities you have to study and engage in research. Take full advantage of these privileges and make the most of every opportunity that comes your way.

In addition, I want to thank the collaborators: Professor Dong-Min Kim, Professor Jin-Won Song, and my lab members.