Officials from the Lao Ministry of Health, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, KOICA, KOFIH and other partner organisations gather in front of the Children’s Hospital in Vientiane on August 14 during a media trip.

Health projects of S. Korea bring better health to Laos

In a vibrant celebration marking the 30th anniversary of the re-establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Korea and Laos, Korea showcased its Official Development Assistance (ODA) projects in the health sector during a media trip on August 14, 2025.
The initiative aimed to enhance public engagement and raise awareness of Korea’s significant contributions to health infrastructure and the quality of health services in Laos.

The delegates visit the construction site of the University of Health Sciences Hospital.

The event brought together around 50 participants, including representatives of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF), the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), the Korean Red Cross, the Korea Foundation for International Healthcare (KOFIH), and officials from the Lao Ministry of Health. The gathering underscored the collaborative spirit that has defined Korea-Laos relations over the past three decades.
Health cooperation has been a cornerstone of Korea’s development assistance in Laos, focusing on infrastructure development, capacity building, improvements in healthcare quality and strengthening referral systems. Among the key initiatives is the Children’s Hospital, which serves as the only tertiary-level paediatric referral hospital in the country, offering advanced child healthcare services with modern equipment and specialised staff.

The Medical Product Supply Centre ensures timely distribution of essential medical supplies and provides training for effective management and sustainability of medical equipment.

The construction of the University of Health Sciences Hospital, funded by EDCF, will deliver a 400-bed tertiary teaching hospital with advanced equipment and ICT systems. The EDCF is also providing US$ 65 million for a new police hospital to further strengthen healthcare infrastructure.
The National Centre for Laboratory and Epidemiology enhances Laos’ capacity to detect bacteria, track outbreaks, and study pathogen genetics, supporting laboratory sustainability and regional health security.

Meanwhile, the Lao Red Cross National Blood Transfusion Institute is working to address low blood donation rates through the provision of mobile collection vehicles, staff training, and systems to promote voluntary donations and improve operational efficiency.
In addition to these projects, Korea has long supported initiatives in maternal and child health, health insurance reform, nutrition, and rehabilitation services throughout Laos. The Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Laos, Mr Jung Yung-soo, noted that Korea is the largest donor among countries with bilateral health projects, and has invested significantly in rural development, education, water management, and labour cooperation, leading to substantial improvements in health outcomes and the overall well-being of the Lao people.
The KOFIH Director, Ms Hyunkyong Kim, reaffirmed that despite global shifts and financial pressures, the Korean government remains a steadfast partner in safeguarding the health of the Lao people, and looks forward to continued collaboration with the Lao Ministry of Health.
The KOICA Deputy Country Director, Ms Jang Somyong, said the anniversary offered an opportunity to deepen health cooperation, which is an important step toward ensuring wider access to quality healthcare for the Lao population.
Looking ahead, Korea and Laos plan to address emerging health challenges and further strengthen the healthcare system. The 30th anniversary not only celebrates past achievements but also lays the foundation for future cooperation, as both nations work hand in hand towards a shared vision of a healthier and more prosperous Laos.

By Times Reporters
(Latest Update August 18, 2025)