The Institute of Astrophysics was established in July 2009 to carry out researches professionally and comprehensively on astrophysical areas on the foundation of the opportunity of being selected as an awardee of creative task which is the supporting business of leading researchers selected jointly by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and the Korea Science and Engineering Foundation in March 2009. The research on extrasolar planets which is the focus activity of the Institute is the major concern of not only the professional but also the general. Thus, it is expected that the results of the activities of the Institute could attract their attention. Particularly, the Institute could help children and youths who are exposed to the world of science for the first time or take the first step. Besides, the Institute could create a golden opportunity to advertise the level of scientific technology effectively not only to the world of science but also to the general persons all over the world.
This Institute concentratedly carries out the discovering activities of extrasolar planets on a large scale which is not only one of the hottest issues but also the important subject of the modern astrophysics, including activities as follow