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In commemoration of the 30th anniversary of reestablished diplomatic relations between the Republic of Korea and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (October 25, 1995–2025), the Korean government reaffirmed its enduring commitment to Laos through a special media event highlighting key achievements in health sector development.
Vice Minister of Health, Mrs. Aphone Vichathep (5th from right), and Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, Mr. Jung Yung-soo (5th from right), visited the Children’s Hospital in Vientiane on August 14.
(KPL) In commemoration of the 30th anniversary of reestablished diplomatic relations between the Republic of Korea and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (October 25, 1995–2025), the Korean government reaffirmed its enduring commitment to Laos through a special media event highlighting key achievements in health sector development.
The event, attended by Vice Minister of Health, Mrs. Aphone Vichathep, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea Jung Yung-soo, and local journalists, showcased Korea’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) projects, which have significantly strengthened Laos’ healthcare infrastructure and services.
Vice Minister Vichathep expressed deep gratitude for Korea’s sustained support, particularly in maternal and child health. “The Republic of Korea has been instrumental in enhancing our healthcare system,” she remarked. “Their assistance has contributed to reducing mortality rates, building medical staff capacity, improving hospital services, and fostering greater community engagement in health initiatives. We look forward to further strengthening this partnership for the well-being of the Lao people.”
Ambassador Jung Yung-soo reiterated Korea’s position as the largest bilateral donor in Laos’ health sector and emphasized the broader scope of Korea’s development cooperation, spanning rural development, education, water management, and labor. “Health cooperation remains a cornerstone of our work in Laos,” he stated. “Our goal is not only to build hospitals and systems but to cultivate enduring partnerships that drive sustainable progress.”
Local journalists from major media outlets, including the Lao News Agency, Lao National Television, Vientiane Times, and Laotian Times, toured several Korean-funded initiatives, including:
- Children’s Hospital – Laos’ only tertiary pediatric referral hospital, equipped with advanced medical technology and specialist staff.
-Medical Product Supply Center – Ensures timely distribution of essential medical supplies while providing training on equipment use and management.
-University of Health Sciences Hospital (under construction) – A 400-bed teaching hospital supported by Korea’s Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF), featuring state-of-the-art ICT systems.
-National Centre for Laboratory and Epidemiology – Strengthens Laos’ capacity for outbreak detection and pathogen research, bolstering public health security.
-Lao Red Cross National Blood Transfusion Institute – Enhances blood supply stability through mobile collection units and training for voluntary donations.
Additional ongoing projects focus on nutrition, health insurance reform, rehabilitation services, and maternal and child healthcare nationwide.
Ms. Hyunkyong Kim, Director of the Korean Foundation for International Healthcare (KOFIH), affirmed Korea’s dedication to sustained cooperation despite global challenges. “The Korean government remains a trusted partner in safeguarding the health of the Lao people,” she said. “We are eager to deepen our collaboration with the Lao Ministry of Health in future initiatives.”
Ms. Jang Somyong, Deputy Country Director of KOICA, described the anniversary as a pivotal moment. “This event marks the beginning of a new chapter in Korea-Laos health cooperation one that will expand access to quality healthcare for all.”
As both nations reflect on three decades of renewed ties, they are poised to address emerging health challenges and further fortify Laos’ healthcare system. Grounded in mutual respect and shared progress, the Korea-Laos partnership not only celebrates past achievements but also lays a robust foundation for a healthier, more prosperous future.
The event brought together 50 participants, including representatives from the Korean Embassy, Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF), Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), Korea Disease Control and prevention Agency (KDCA), Korean Red Cross, Kokrea Foundation for International Healthcare (KOFIH), and the Ministry of Health demonstrating the strength and unity of this longstanding alliance.
KPL
