The Korean Institute of Bridge and Structural Engineers (KIBSE) traces its origins to February 3, 1996, when the inaugural General Assembly of the Korean National Group of the International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering (IABSE) was held at the Faculty House of Seoul National University.
 

In 2000, the organization was officially authorized as an incorporated association by the Ministry of Construction and Transportation, establishing its institutional foundation. Professor Seung-Pil Chang served as the first President.
 

In 2008, under the presidency of Professor Hyun-Moo Koh, the inaugural issue of Bridge and Structure was published and the Institute strengthened its international engagement while receiving approval of its current corporate name from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.

Over the years, KIBSE has expanded its academic activities through conferences, research initiatives, and technical programs. In 2023, the Institute launched the Journal of the Korean Institute of Bridge and Structural Engineers, further strengthening its scholarly platform.
 

In recent years, the Institute has expanded its scope to address structural issues not only in modern infrastructure but also in cultural heritage structures, reflecting the evolving needs of the built environment.