Dr Bounfeng Phoummalaysith (seated right) signed the cooperation agreement during the ceremomy.

Health ministry inks deal with S. Korea to build new medical university

Laos’ Ministry of Health and a South Korean company are embarking on a joint venture to transform healthcare education and services in Laos with the construction of a new, advanced University of Health Sciences (UHS) and hospital.
This state-of-the-art facility, to be built in Vientiane, will be fully equipped to provide comprehensive clinical training for medical students and lecturers.
A landmark agreement on the project was signed in Vientiane on June 19 between the Lao Ministry of Health and South Korea’s ILsung Construction Co., Ltd.
This ambitious project, backed by a Korean government loan of approximately US$120 million, aims to significantly elevate Laos' medical education and service standards.
The agreement signing ceremony brought together high-ranking officials from both nations, including Lao Minister of Health Dr Bounfeng Phoummalaysith and the South Korean Ambassador to Laos.
The new 8-storey hospital, to be situated in Banxiengda village, Xaysettha district, will have 400 beds, offering a mix of private and general rooms.
The main building will house various healthcare facilities, including a Medical Research Council (MRC) unit and a CT scanner.
Crucially, the hospital will feature a dedicated simulation centre for clinical practices, a first for the University of Health Sciences, along with essential amenities like a canteen.
Dr Bounsathien, the new project manager for the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF), spoke at the ceremony, outlining the project's ambitious scope.
He detailed plans for the development of healthcare infrastructure at all levels, from community to central, integrating high-tech medical equipment and modern teaching facilities.
A primary objective is to standardise medical education in Laos to meet international benchmarks. ILsung Construction Co., Ltd., which secured the construction bid on May 26, 2025, will lead the project in collaboration with various sub-contractors and government ministries, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Transportation, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and EDCF.
Company representatives expressed their strong commitment to the project, pledging to deliver a high-quality facility essential for advancing medical education in Laos.
Construction of the new university and teaching hospital will further strengthen the relationship between Laos and South Korea and will directly benefit the Lao people, the company said.
Dr Bounfeng, in what he noted was his final day as Minister of Health, extended his gratitude to all guests and participating ministries.
He confirmed the Lao government's contribution of US$21 million to the project, supplemented by a low-interest loan from the EDCF.
The minister underlined the government's commitment to quality healthcare and improving hospital systems towards self-autonomy, emphasising the need for applied clinical knowledge and advanced equipment in medical education.
He also highlighted the unique features of the new hospital, saying that none of the other main hospitals in Vientiane offer the full spectrum of medical and teaching services that the new University of Health Sciences hospital will provide.

By Phetphoxay Sengpaseuth
 (Latest Update June 20, 2025)