The South-North Hana Foundation Provides Emergency COVID-19 Relief Supplies to Vulnerable North Korean Defectors

On the morning of the 11th, citizens wearing masks are commuting to work through Sindorim Station in Guro-gu, Seoul.

Amid the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), the NamBuk Hana Foundation is providing emergency relief supplies for vulnerable North Korean defectors.

On the 16th, the NamBuk Hana Foundation announced, "Due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation, we plan to provide emergency relief supplies to vulnerable North Korean defectors who are experiencing difficulties," adding, "This support is prepared for vulnerable defectors who face restrictions in purchasing basic daily necessities and personal hygiene products due to COVID-19 related movement restrictions."

The foundation plans to provide emergency relief kits necessary for infection prevention and basic living maintenance to 420 elderly and solitary seniors in Daegu and Gyeongbuk regions, where COVID-19 damage is concentrated, as well as in Seoul, Gyeonggi, and Chungnam regions.

The relief kits consist of infection prevention items such as hand sanitizers and daily necessities including ready-to-eat meals.

The Hana Foundation stated, "We plan to actively utilize private donations to help vulnerable North Korean defectors overcome the COVID-19 crisis and minimize damage," and added, "Through nationwide Hana Centers, we will identify and connect elderly defectors living in affected areas, and consider additional support depending on the COVID-19 situation."

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Unification and the Hana Foundation established a 'Comprehensive Measures for the Stabilization of North Korean Defectors' Lives' in September last year. This is aimed at early identification and support of North Korean defector households in crisis to eliminate welfare blind spots among defectors.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.