The award is the first of its kind by APTA to recognise a scholar or industry leader who has made significant lifetime contributions in advancing tourism research and/or industry practices in the Asia Pacific region. The award was created in the honour of Professor Hai-sik Sohn, the founder of APTA who also served as Chairman of the organisation from 1995 to 2006. Professor Chon was one of the founding members of APTA in 1995.