Korea Announces 2024 Humanitarian Aid Strategy at UN Financing for Development Conference in Seville

As a responsible donor within the international community, the Korean government has steadily expanded its collaboration with major international organizations to enhance global capacity to respond to humanitarian crises. In 2024, Korea is implementing a significant structural reform of its aid programs, moving away from support centered on numerous small-scale projects. Instead, it has adopted an integrated strategy that groups high-need countries and regions—those facing urgent humanitarian challenges or receiving concentrated international attention—by thematic area, and advances coordinated efforts with key partner organizations.

This shift allows Korea to leverage a budget comparable to previous years in a far more strategic manner, maximizing both the effectiveness and visibility of its contributions. Moreover, the approach strengthens Korea’s influence within the international development cooperation landscape, particularly in light of evolving global dynamics.

The three key agencies selected for strategic collaboration—UNDP, UNICEF, and WFP—each bring specialized expertise in emergency relief, child and public health, and food security, respectively. Through partnerships with these agencies, the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs will focus its humanitarian efforts on regions experiencing protracted conflicts, chronic hunger, and acute humanitarian needs. Projects will be prioritized in the Middle East (USD 65 million), Asia (USD 40 million), and Africa (USD 22 million).

To enhance the global visibility of its humanitarian assistance, the Korean government has consolidated its major initiatives under a single umbrella brand: “Republic of Korea’s 3R Humanitarian Assistance Initiatives.” In addition, separate sub-brands tailored to each agency have been developed, aligning Korea’s policy priorities with the agencies’ specialized mandates. These efforts aim to more effectively communicate Korea’s international contributions to the public and stakeholders.

During the meeting, Vice Minister Kim emphasized Korea’s commitment to making contributions that reflect its national capacity and growing international standing. She underscored the significance of Korea’s sustained support at a time when humanitarian needs are intensifying globally, while available funding remains insufficient. Highlighting Korea’s active role, she called on each organization to diligently implement the supported projects and to proactively share their results. She also urged the agencies to help expand opportunities for Korean nationals to participate in the work of international organizations.

In response, the agency representatives expressed deep appreciation for Korea’s timely contributions amid a challenging global development environment. They also conveyed strong expectations for the continued development of robust and mutually beneficial partnerships with Korea.

This strengthened collaboration between the Korean government and key UN agencies is expected to reinforce global solidarity and cooperation in addressing humanitarian crises around the world.

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