On behalf of the local and international organizing committees, it is my great pleasure and honor to welcome you to the 18th International Symposium on the Biology of Actinomycetes (ISBA18). The symposium will take place at the International Convention Center JEJU (ICCJEJU), Korea, during May 23rd~27th, 2017. 

ISBA meetings have always brought together both well-established and promising scientists who are enthusiastic to unfold the treasure hidden in our beloved Actinobacteria. I hope that ISBA18 continues this tradition and promotes active exchange of ideas and collaborations among researchers of diverse disciplines, academic and cultural backgrounds, from all over the world. 

The scientific program will accommodate a feast of 13 symposia, 3 workshop sessions, 9 plenary lectures, and a special lecture by 2015 Nobel Laureate Prof. Satoshi ōmura. Participants will enjoy recent advancements of new knowledges, approaches, techniques, and applications, encompassing nearly all disciplines of modern biology and biotechnology. 

I hope all of you to attend this meeting and enjoy not only science but also Korean culture and the beauty of Jeju Island. We look forward to seeing you all in Jeju for unforgettable Korean experiences.