HANOI, 24 October 2024 – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has welcomed the USD 1 million contribution of the Government of the Republic of Korea (ROK) to assist thousands of individuals and families affected by Super Typhoon Yagi, which caused extensive damage across some of the hardest-hit provinces in Northern Viet Nam.  

"In this critical time, we stand with the people of Viet Nam, as we continue to deepen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between our two countries," said H.E. Choi Youngsam, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Viet Nam. "The ROK Government swiftly announced USD 2 million of humanitarian aid to support Viet Nam. Since then, we have been working closely together with the Vietnamese government and international organizations, including IOM, to help people in dire need of support. More than 37,000 families have been temporarily staying at community shelters. Through trusted partners like IOM, this assistance will hopefully set a strong foundation for recovery and provide essential items to some of Viet Nam's most vulnerable communities," the Ambassador emphasized. 

Aiming to support nearly 9,500 individuals in the hardest-hit provinces of Lao Cai, Yen Bai, Cao Bang, Ha Giang, and Hai Phong, the project recognizes a two-pronged approach to natural disaster recovery. One aspect is the ongoing health concerns; thus, the Republic of Korea is working with IOM to deliver essential hygiene items to more than 1,200 households, while disseminating public health messaging to mitigate the spread of communicable diseases and other health threats. Additionally, the typhoon has a severe impact on shelters. Following consultation with the Government of Viet Nam, the project will support early recovery for more than 4,700 individuals and contribute to the repairing and reconstruction of nearly 160 severely damaged houses in the most vulnerable communities. 

This contribution will address the urgent needs of families affected by the most destructive typhoon to hit the country in 70 years. With widespread destruction across the northern provinces, Super Typhoon Yagi claimed more than 300 lives and destroyed or damaged over 100,000 homes, schools and healthcare facilities. Over 237,000 families have been displaced; approximately 570,000 people lack access to safe water and sanitation. 

Mitsue Pembroke, Officer in Charge of IOM Viet Nam, welcomed the Republic of Korea Government's contribution and said, "As a long-time partner of the Republic of Korean Government in Viet Nam, IOM commends the generous support to continue protecting the rights of displaced people." 

"Through the Viet Nam Disaster Risk Reduction Partnership, as well as with provincial and local authorities, IOM will ensure immediate support on the ground. Effective and coordinated implementation will be put in place to support the most vulnerable individuals displaced from their homes, especially the economically marginalized, women, girls and persons with disabilities," added Mitsue.  

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Media contacts: 

Nguyen Ngoc Tram, IOM Viet Nam, Tel : +84 (0) 912893964, Email: ngocnguyen@iom.int.