PHWR Public Health Weekly Report

Vol.18 No.50, December 24, 2025 Article TypeEditorialPolicy NoteQuickStatsReview & PerspectiveSummarySurveillance ReportSurveillance Reports

• Editorial 2025-12-24

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  Commemoration of the Special Issue on HIV/AIDS in “Public Health Weekly Report”

  Bo Youl Choi

  Public Health Weekly Report 2025; 18(50): 2059-2062 https://doi.org/10.56786/PHWR.2025.18.50.1

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• Surveillance Report 2025-12-24

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  Characteristics of Notified Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales Cases in the Republic of Korea, 2024

  Hyoseon Jeong , Yeongseo Ahn , Seung Jae Lee

  Public Health Weekly Report 2025; 18(50): 2063-2079 https://doi.org/10.56786/PHWR.2025.18.50.2

  

  

  Abstract

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  Objectives: Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) are bacteria resistant to at least one carbapenem antibiotic. Carbapenemase-producing CRE (CP-CRE) are more transmissible than non-carbapenemase-producing bacteria and are more likely to cause healthcare-associated outbreaks. The aim of this study was to analyze the characteristics of CRE cases in the Republic of Korea in 2024.
  Methods: CRE cases reported to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency in 2024, were analyzed, focusing on demographic characteristics, types of healthcare facilities, and pathogen profiles.
  Results: A total of 42,347 CRE cases were reported from 1,610 healthcare facilities, including 33,169 CP-CRE cases from 1,313 facilities. The proportion of CP-CRE among CRE cases increased from 61.9% in 2020 to 78.3% in 2024. General hospitals accounted for 19,006 cases (44.9%), advanced general hospitals for 10,905 (25.8%), and long-term care hospitals (LTCHs) for 8,940 (21.1%). The reports from LTCHs increased from 8.2% in 2020 to 21.1% in 2024. Regionally, 26,624 cases (62.9%) were reported in the Capital area. Among reported isolates, Klebsiella pneumoniae was the most common species (69.3%). Among the carbapenemase genotypes, K. pneumoniae carbapenemase was predominant (76.6%), and oxacillinase increased from 4.3% in 2020 to 8.3% in 2024.
  Conclusions: Since the introduction of mandatory surveillance in 2017, the number of CRE cases and reporting healthcare facilities have steadily increased. The upward trend in reports from LTCHs is likely to reflect multiple factors, including population aging as well as patient- and facility-related characteristics. Considering the genotype-specific trends and regional variations, tailored strategies for the early detection of CP-CRE outbreaks are warranted. Sustained collaboration between the public and private sectors is crucial for effective CRE control.

• Surveillance Report 2025-12-24

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  Out-of-Hospital Sudden Cardiac Arrest Incidence in Daegu and Gyeongbuk, 2013–2023

  Younglim Shin , Yujin Jang , Sanghui Kweon

  Public Health Weekly Report 2025; 18(50): 2080-2095 https://doi.org/10.56786/PHWR.2025.18.50.3

  

  

  Abstract

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  Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the incidence, survival outcomes, and associated factors of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) in the Daegu and Gyeongbuk regions using Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Surveillance data. The goal was to provide evidence that supports improvements in regional emergency response systems.
  Methods: Microdata from the Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Surveillance covering 11 years (2013–2023) were analyzed. Incidence rates were calculated based on patients’ residence. Survival indicators, including survival to discharge, neurological recovery, and bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) rate, were evaluated based on the location of cardiac arrest occurrence.
  Results: During the past decade, OHCA incidence in Daegu remained lower than the national rate, while Gyeongbuk consistently demonstrated a higher incidence. National survival and neurological recovery have gradually increased, but Gyeongbuk remained below the national average. Survival outcomes were significantly associated with public locations, witnessed events, and bystander CPR. Notably, Daegu has experienced a rapid increase in the bystander CPR rate, with a fivefold over the past decade (from 9.6% in 2013 to 50.9% in 2023).
  Conclusions: Early recognition and immediate bystander action are crucial for improving OHCA outcomes. Expanding public CPR training and strengthening community-based emergency response systems remain essential.

• QuickStats 2025-12-24

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  Trends of Survival and Neurological Recovery in Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Patients, 2014–2024

  Jisu Kim

  Public Health Weekly Report 2025; 18(50): 2096-2097 https://doi.org/10.56786/PHWR.2025.18.50.4

  

  

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• Summary 2025-12-24

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  HIV/AIDS Management Programs in Republic of Korea: Achievements and Future Direction

  Jeonghee Yu

  Public Health Weekly Report 2025; 18(Suppl 50): S1-S5

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• Surveillance Reports 2025-12-24

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  HIV/AIDS Incidence, Treatment Status, and Mortality Statistics in the Republic of Korea, 2023

  Koun Kim , Sangsik Cho , Junghee Hyun , Jeonghee Yu

  Public Health Weekly Report 2025; 18(Suppl 50): S6-S22

  

  

  Abstract

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  Objectives: In this study, we aim to assess the current status of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, HIV/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) treatment, and AIDS-related mortality to support national strategies for HIV/AIDS prevention and management in the Republic of Korea.
  Methods: Statistics on HIV infection were analyzed using Integrated Disease Management System data, epidemiological surveys, health insurance and medical aid records, and national cause-of-death data.
  Results: In 2023, 1,005 new HIV infections were reported, including 749 Koreans (74.5%) and 256 foreigners (25.5%). Among these cases, 903 (89.9%) occurred in males. Individuals in their 30s constituted the largest proportion, accounting for 35.4% (356 people) of newly reported infections. Among those infected, 99.6% (564 people) reported sexual contact as the transmission route. In total, 16,963 people received HIV-related treatment in 2023. Among hospitalized patients, the mean length of stay was 32.6 days—longer than for pneumonia (22.6 days) and tuberculosis (22.1 days). There were 45 AIDS-related deaths in 2023. The number of people living with HIV in 2023 reached 16,459, an increase of 591 from the previous year. The proportion of cases among older adults aged ≥60 years has risen annually, increasing from 16.4% in 2020 to 19.4% in 2023.
  Conclusions: Strategic preparation is necessary to address the growing aging population living with HIV. Accordingly, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency plans to implement strengthened policies under the 2nd National Action Plan on HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control (2024–2028) to reduce new infections, promote early detection, support timely treatment and adherence, protect the right to health, and enhance management capacity.

• Review & Perspective 2025-12-24

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  Korean HIV/AIDS Cohort Study: Past Achievements, Present Directions, and Future Perspectives

  Yunsu Choi , Youn Jeong Kim , Bo Young Park , Jun Yong Choi , Shin-Woo Kim , Joon Young Song , Bo Youl Choi , Sang Il Kim

  Public Health Weekly Report 2025; 18(Suppl 50): S23-S45

  

  

  Abstract

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  Objectives: The Korea human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, (HIV/AIDS) Cohort Study, initiated in 2006, has been performed to systematically analyze the natural history, treatment responses, complications, drug resistance, and psychosocial factors among people living with HIV (PLHIV) to provide an evidence-based description of disease progression and guidance for disease management.
  Methods: Since inception of the study in 2006, 21 hospitals have participated, with 15 hospitals actively involved as of 2025. A single epidemiological data center continuously from the early stages of the research, responsible for standardized data collection, quality management, epidemiological consultation, and statistical support. The study includes research on rapid treatment initiation, immune recovery, transmission routes, and non-infectious complications.
  Results: This research has contributed to improving the survival rate and quality of life among PLHIV by systematically analyzing various factors. Introduction of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), development of mathematical models to guide policy formulation, and establishment of a high-quality standardized data management system also provide a crucial foundation for future HIV research and policy advancement.
  Conclusions: Through national big data linkage and sharing, this study is expected to enhance domestic and international research activities.

• Review & Perspective 2025-12-24

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  Recent Advances in HIV/AIDS Prevention: Focusing on Antiretroviral Therapy

  Jung Ho Kim *

  Public Health Weekly Report 2025; 18(Suppl 50): S46-S63

  Abstract

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  Objectives: Although the global HIV incidence has declined over the past decade, Republic of Korea (ROK) continues to report approximately 1,000 new cases annually, with an increasing proportion among foreign nationals, highlighting the need to strengthen prevention strategies. This review aimed to synthesize current scientific evidence on Treatment as Prevention (TasP) and the Undetectable=Untransmittable (U=U) concept, with a particular focus on prevention strategies utilizing antiretroviral therapy, and to discuss their public health implications. This review also examined the history and key evidence of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and outlined its current role in ROK.
  Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted to evaluate the evidence base and implications of TasP and U=U, summarizing the development, efficacy, and implementation of PrEP in both global and Korean contexts.
  Results: TasP markedly reduced HIV transmission, confirming its role as a cornerstone prevention strategy. The establishment of the U=U concept helps alleviate stigma and fosters a virtuous cycle that supports the prevention of secondary transmission. PrEP has demonstrated high effectiveness in preventing HIV infection. Notably, recent clinical trials found that long-acting injectable PrEP offers greater convenience, potentially improving adherence and broadening access. In ROK, the nationwide expansion of a government-supported PrEP program in 2025 is expected to lower barriers to testing, care, and medication, thereby facilitating higher uptake in at-risk populations.
  Conclusions: An integrated prevention framework that combines TasP/U=U with both oral and long-acting PrEP is anticipated to substantially reduce new HIV infections and contribute to achieving the 2030 HIV elimination goals in ROK.

• Review & Perspective 2025-12-24

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  HIV Treatment Paradigm Shifts over the Past 40 Years

  Jung Yeon Heo *

  Public Health Weekly Report 2025; 18(Suppl 50): S64-S82

  

  

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  Objectives: This review summarizes the evolution of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) treatment over the past 40 years, tracing its transition from a fatal infectious disease to a chronic condition and outlining current therapeutic trends that characterize the paradigm shift in care.
  Methods: Key milestones in HIV therapy were examined through a narrative review, beginning with the introduction of zidovudine in 1987 and extending to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and recent long-acting injectable agents.
  Results: The adoption of triple-drug HAART in 1996 addressed the resistance challenges of monotherapy and substantially reduced HIV-related morbidity and mortality. Since the mid-2010s, integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI)–based single-tablet regimens have delivered potent viral suppression, strong resistance barriers, and improved treatment convenience, yielding success rates exceeding 90%. In addition, the implementation of the “Treat All” strategy and the “U=U (Undetectable=Untransmittable)” principle has enhanced individual health and supported broader epidemic control.
  Conclusions: Current HIV therapy continues to evolve beyond viral suppression toward patient-centered approaches, including two-drug regimens and long-acting injectables, to address unmet needs and enhance quality of life.

• Policy Note 2025-12-24

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  Overview of the National HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Program in the Republic of Korea

  Eunyoung Kim , Eunjung Oh , Junghee Hyun , Jeonghee Yu *

  Public Health Weekly Report 2025; 18(Suppl 50): S83-S97

  Abstract

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  Objectives: The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) is implementing a national HIV/AIDS (human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome) prevention and control program in accordance with the 「Prevention of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Act」 and the 「National action plan on HIV/AIDS prevention and control」. This report presents an overview of the national HIV/AIDS prevention and control program.
  Methods: Documents reviewed included 「The national action plan on HIV/AIDS prevention and control」, the HIV/AIDS management guidelines, and the implementation plans of the national HIV/AIDS prevention and control program.
  Results: To implement HIV prevention programs, seven AIDS prevention centers and one AIDS counseling center are being supported, and the “HIV screening and pre-exposure prophylaxis support program for key populations” is being implemented to prevent infection and facilitate early diagnosis. To improve quality of life and prevent onward transmission, various support programs for people living with HIV are being implemented, including financial assistance for medical and treatment expenses, integrated counseling and adherence support through the medical institution counseling program, long-term care services to maintain basic health rights and daily living, and shelters with emergency assistance to provide stability and support selfreliance for vulnerable groups.
  Conclusions: In collaboration with the KDCA, local governments, medical institutions, and civil society organizations, the national HIV/AIDS prevention and control program, including 「The 2nd national action plan on HIV/AIDS prevention and control (2024–2028)」 established in 2024, is being implemented to strengthen prevention efforts and achieve the goals of reducing new infections by 50% from the 2023 level and ending AIDS by 2030.

• Policy Note 2025-12-24

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  History and Current Status of the HIV/AIDS Supporting Network System

  Sangsik Cho, Koun Kim , Sohee Han , Junghee Hyun , Jeonghee Yu *

  Public Health Weekly Report 2025; 18(Suppl 50): S98-S111

  

  

  Abstract

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  Objectives: We reviewed the development process, current structure, and core functions of the HIV/AIDS (human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome) Supporting Network System (HASNet), which underpins the national surveillance system for HIV/AIDS in the Republic of Korea (ROK). We also analyzed the role of HASNet within the broader national infectious disease management framework.
  Methods: We reviewed relevant literature and institutional developments to examine the stepwise evolution of HASNet from 2004 to 2024. Our analyses focused on system components (test management, case reporting, epidemiological investigation, patient management, and statistical management) and user structures. We also reviewed legislative amendments, data protection measures, and the system upgrade process.
  Results: Since its initial establishment in 2004, HASNet has experienced continuous advances. Milestones include the development of a blood safety system and public information website, functional enhancements through modernization projects from 2005 to 2008, integration with the National Disease and Health Integrated Management System in 2009, reinforcement of personal data protection measures in 2019, and expansion of patient support functions in the 2020s. Through these developments, HASNet has evolved into a comprehensive support system that manages the full continuum of care needs for people living with HIV from diagnosis to confirmation, reporting, and epidemiological investigations of treatment and mortality. It operates for a multi-tiered user network consisting of healthcare institutions, public health centers, provincial public health laboratories, local governments, and the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency.
  Conclusions: HASNet currently provides a critical foundation supporting enhanced efficiency and accuracy of ROK’s national HIV/AIDS management programs while providing essential evidence for policy development. Amendments to the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Prevention Act and further integration with other health information systems are necessary to expand programmatic support and strengthen data utilization. These improvements are expected to contribute to the sustainable advancement of the national HIV/AIDS management system.