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The article discusses the highlights of the 2nd International Collaborative Symposium on Stem Cell Research held in Seoul, Korea from September 18 to 19, 2008. The topics tackled included induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells, evidence for cancer stem cells in a mouse model of brain tumor and the derivation of red blood cells from human embryonic stem (ES) cells. Kyuson Yun of the Jackson Laboratory in Maine, Martin Pera of the University of Southern California and Philippe Collas of the University of Oslo in Norway were among the speakers featured.

Information about several papers discussed at the First International Collaborative Symposium on Stem Cell Research in Seoul, Korea on December 8-9, 2006 is presented. It clears the necessity of increased international collaboration to drive the field forward by investing complementary expertise and resources. An improved understanding on the late stages of embryonic organogenesis has been discussed. The critical roles of chromatin modifications on stem cell differentiation is also tackled.

The article shares the author's insights on the status of the stem cell research in Korea, despite the scandal of former Seoul National University professor Woo Suk Hwang who claims the first cloning of patient-specific stem cells. He argues that despite negative expectations and concerns, the report is bouncing back with better focus and balance. He explains that the stem cell science in the country will not stop in the aftermath of the scandal but it will continue with better integrity.