NNA — The Korean government’s generous contribution to the World Health Organization (WHO) in Lebanon has significantly enhanced Lebanon’s emergency health preparedness and response.
Today, the Minister of Public Health with the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, and WHO held a joint event at Rafik Hariri University Hospital (RHUH) to highlight Korea’s ongoing support to Lebanon’s trauma care system. The event was attended by H.E. Dr Rakan Nassereddine, Minister of Public Health, H.E. Mr. Gyusuk Geon, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Lebanon, and Dr. Abdinasir Abubakar, WHO Representative in Lebanon.
RHUH is one of the main trauma centers designated by the Ministry of Public Health and WHO to lead emergency response efforts in Lebanon. The event showcased Korea’s pivotal role in enabling hospitals like RHUH to be strategically equipped and prepared for trauma and emergency care.
A Milestone for Trauma Care in Lebanon
In his speech, Dr. Rakan thanked the Republic of Korea and the World Health Organization for this generous $1 million initiative, which has provided Rafik Hariri University Hospital with strategic equipment and supplies that enhance its capacity to respond to emergency health emergencies and serve patients in Beirut and across Lebanon, consolidating its role as a comprehensive national hospital and a cornerstone of the Lebanese healthcare sector. He added, "We pledge to stand by Rafik Hariri University Hospital administratively, financially, and materially to cover any deficit, in exchange for a clear commitment to achievement and joint work. This hospital has been and will remain a mother to the poor and needy and a fundamental pillar of the healthcare sector in Lebanon."
In his opening remarks, Dr. Mohammad Al-Zaatari, Director General of Rafik Hariri University Hospital, expressed his appreciation for this cooperation, stating, "The support provided by the government of the Republic of Korea was not just a contribution, but a true investment in people's health and lives."
Dr. Abdinasir Abubakar emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships:
“Thanks to the generous support of the Government of Korea, WHO is advancing trauma care preparedness across Lebanon. Strategic investments like these save lives and ensure hospitals are ready to respond to crises.”
Ambassador Gyusuk Geon reaffirmed Korea’s long-standing support to Lebanon: "For Korea, supporting Lebanon's health sector is more than a gesture of solidarity. It reflects our deep respect for Lebanon and our belief that no nation should face hardship alone. That is why, through World Health Organization, Korea has contributed 1 million US dollars to strengthen Lebanon's emergency health response."
The ceremony concluded with a practical demonstration by Dr. Vanik Baboyan, an orthopedic surgeon, on the use of the External Fixator, one of the most prominent medical equipment provided by this project, which contributes significantly to saving lives and reducing disabilities resulting from injuries.
Strategic Impact of Korea’s Contribution
Korea’s support is enabling a comprehensive approach to health emergency preparedness and response in Lebanon through key strategic investments:
• Inclusive Preparedness Planning: A revised national preparedness plan is underway with the PHEOC, placing a strong emphasis on the needs of persons with disabilities to ensure inclusive emergency response.
• Health Facility Mapping (Atlas GIS): The upgrade of the Atlas GIS platform, integrated with the DHIS2 system, will allow for real-time geolocation and profiling of health facilities across Lebanon—enhancing resource allocation and identifying service gaps during crises as well as decision-making and coordination across health services.
• Emergency Trauma Equipment: A total of 30 external fixators (20 adult and 10 pediatric) and 20 WHO trauma backpacks have been procured for public hospitals. These tools will significantly strengthen trauma response capacity and help prevent long-term disability.
• Support for Surveillance Systems: Investments in health surveillance systems are improving early outbreak detection and rapid response, reinforcing Lebanon’s fragile health infrastructure.
• Cancer Medication Procurement: Korean funding has enabled the purchase of essential cancer treatments for approximately 400 patients within Lebanon’s public hospital network, reducing treatment disruptions and easing the burden on public health services.
Showcasing the Trauma Care Pathway
Following the speeches, participants were guided on a walkthrough of the Emergency Room at RHUH, where the trauma care pathway was demonstrated by Dr. Sara Alkouzi. The tour provided a practical look at how Korea’s support translates into real-world improvements in emergency care delivery.
