Republic of Korea Provides USD 30 Million to Support Humanitarian Response in Gaza through UNDP, UNICEF, and WFP
Ramallah – The Government of the Republic of Korea announced a contribution of USD 30 million in emergency humanitarian assistance to support interventions in the Gaza Strip through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the World Food Programme (WFP).
The announcement was made during an official ceremony held in Ramallah, attended by the Government of the State of Palestine, represented by H.E. Dr. Samah Hamad, Minister of Social Development and Minister of State for Relief Affairs; Mr. Young-kul Ko, Representative of the Republic of Korea in Palestine; and Dr. Ramiz Alakbarov, United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in the occupied Palestinian territory, alongside representatives from the UN agencies supported under this funding.
In her remarks, Dr. Hamad reaffirmed the Palestinian government’s commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities in Gaza despite limited resources. She emphasized that the government is leading a coordinated humanitarian response and stands ready to act immediately in partnership with the international community. She explained that the emergency coordination mechanism launched by the government brings together ministries, UN agencies, and Palestinian civil society to deliver life-saving humanitarian support. Dr. Abu Aoun expressed deep appreciation to the Republic of Korea for its generous and timely support, which addresses urgent needs, stressing that responsibility toward Gaza is not a privilege but a national duty.
This contribution comes amid an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where thousands of families have been forcibly displaced, children deprived of their right to education, and entire communities struggling to access food, shelter, water, and healthcare. The support reflects the Republic of Korea’s strong commitment to partnership and solidarity with the Palestinian people in times of crisis. The funding will be implemented in coordination with the Government of the State of Palestine and the relevant ministries, ensuring national leadership of the humanitarian response in line with national priorities and addressing the most pressing needs of affected populations.
Mr. Young-kul Ko, Representative of the Republic of Korea in Palestine, stated:
“This year, the Korean government launched pioneering humanitarian programs in a number of crisis-affected countries and regions. Gaza was one of the key locations for these efforts. These three projects, totaling USD 30 million, will serve as a vital lifeline for the Palestinian people in Gaza at a critical moment.”
Dr. Ramiz Alakbarov, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, added:
“Gaza is facing an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe, with families enduring displacement, the collapse of basic services, and confirmed famine in Gaza City. The support provided by the Republic of Korea – through UNDP, UNICEF, and WFP – comes at a critical time, making a tangible difference and reinforcing the UN’s continued commitment to supporting the people of Gaza. This assistance will help restore education, healthcare, and water services, provide transitional shelter and solar-powered community centers, and deliver food assistance to over half a million people. All efforts will be carried out in close coordination with and under the leadership of the Palestinian government, ensuring a nationally owned response that addresses the most urgent needs.”
Through UNICEF, the Republic of Korea is allocating USD 10 million to support more than 200,000 people in Gaza, particularly vulnerable groups such as women and children, by ensuring access to education, healthcare, clean water, and sanitation services. The project includes establishing temporary learning spaces for 12,000 students, providing primary healthcare services for 150,000 displaced persons by expanding existing centers, strengthening mobile medical teams in accessible humanitarian zones, and improving water and sanitation facilities in schools, clinics, and community centers to serve nearly 200,000 people. The project also ensures the inclusion and active participation of children with disabilities in their communities.
Through UNDP, the Republic of Korea is providing an additional USD 10 million to support early recovery efforts, particularly through the provision of mobile housing units to strengthen resilience in Gaza. The project includes the construction of 540 mobile housing units and eight solar-powered community centers offering water and sanitation services. It also supports rubble recycling, promotes social cohesion, and provides targeted support to vulnerable groups, especially female-headed households and persons with disabilities.
Through WFP, the Republic of Korea will fund emergency food assistance for nearly 500,000 people facing acute food insecurity in Gaza. This includes the distribution of fortified wheat flour, with priority given to displaced populations sheltering in schools and communities with limited access to markets. The program will also rely on local procurement to stimulate the national economy while meeting urgent food needs. Additionally, about 126,000 people in the West Bank affected by economic hardship, displacement, and settler violence will benefit from food assistance through electronic vouchers redeemable at over 140 local shops.
These interventions represent a holistic humanitarian approach addressing the urgent needs of over two million people in the areas of food, shelter, health, education, water, and sanitation. They are fully aligned with the 2025 Humanitarian Appeal and the Gaza Recovery Framework, ensuring a comprehensive UN-led response. Practically, the Republic of Korea’s contribution demonstrates an integrated approach linking humanitarian action, development, and peace – meeting urgent needs, supporting early recovery, and building resilience. This ensures that communities can withstand today’s crises while paving the way for a more stable and inclusive future.
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