South Korea has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh by announcing a US$5 million contribution to the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) for humanitarian assistance and protection efforts.

“This generous contribution from the Republic of Korea comes at a crucial time, when the needs and vulnerabilities of Rohingya continue to rise, especially for those with disabilities,” said Ivo Freijsen, UNHCR Representative in Bangladesh, in a statement today.

Amid widespread funding cuts to life-saving aid, Freijsen expressed gratitude for Korea’s “steadfast support,” which he said helps uphold refugees’ dignity and meet critical needs during uncertain times.

More than 1.16 million Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char remain dependent on humanitarian aid, eight years after fleeing violence in Myanmar. Renewed clashes in Rakhine State this year have displaced an additional 150,000 people.

Korean Ambassador to Bangladesh Park Young-sik said the new contribution brings Seoul’s total support to US$10 million, alongside a major rice donation. “This underscores our firm and enduring commitment to supporting humanitarian efforts for the Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh,” he added.

According to UNHCR, the latest funding will prioritize refugees with disabilities through early identification, rehabilitation, assistive devices, and construction of accessible facilities such as bathing cubicles and latrines. It will also fund mental health and psychosocial support services.

The contribution will further sustain the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) program, ensuring access to clean cooking fuel—an initiative that has improved safety for women and girls, boosted school attendance for children, and reduced environmental degradation in and around the camps since 2018.

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