South Korea gives $5M for Rohingya refugees

On Tuesday, the IOM (International Organization for Migration) announced that South Korea has provided $5 million to support over 420,000 Rohingya refugees living in the protracted crisis for more than eight years.
 

The funding will help IOM strengthen life-saving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programs in seven highly congested camps and provide regular liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for safe cooking to 41,500 Rohingya families across 17 camps.
 

With South Korea’s support, IOM will improve the reliability and safety of camp water and sanitation facilities, promote hygiene practices, and ensure safe, dignified, and inclusive WASH services for vulnerable groups, including women, girls, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
 

Another key aspect of the project is meeting the cooking fuel needs of Rohingya families. LPG distribution not only provides safe and clean fuel but also contributes to food security and nutrition, reduces deforestation, and lowers health risks. It particularly enhances protection for women and adolescent girls, who are vulnerable to gender-based violence when collecting fuel.
 

South Korea’s Ambassador to Bangladesh, Park Young-sik, said that Korea has maintained a strong humanitarian commitment to the Rohingya this year. He noted that Korean support this year includes $10 million in funding and large rice supplies, reflecting Korea’s steadfast commitment to the Rohingya community.
 

He added that Korea is committed to working closely with international and local partners to ensure both refugees and host communities receive necessary assistance while supporting sustainable solutions for the future.
 

IOM Bangladesh Chief of Mission, Lance Bono, said the support directly strengthens the safety, dignity, and stability of communities that rely on humanitarian assistance.
 

Since the emergency began in August 2017, South Korea has consistently supported Bangladesh in addressing the crisis faced by the Rohingya population.