The Export-Import Bank of Korea (Korea Eximbank), the Korea Broadcasting System (KBS), and the representatives of the government of South Sudan signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the Smile Tonj Project on January 30 at the International Conference Hall of KBS.

The two-part project was launched to continue the legacy of Father Tae-suk (John) Lee, who passed away at the age of 49 after demonstrating to the world true servant leadership of self-sacrifice and unconditional love for the people of Tonj village in South Sudan.

The first objective of the two-part project encompasses construction of the John Lee Memorial Hospital and Medical School, the country’s first modern general hospital and medical school, in Juba, South Sudan.

EDCF* will provide funding for the construction and supply of medical equipment and supplies while the Ministry of Health supports technical cooperation by dispatching teams of medical experts to assist the development of an educational curriculum and to impart expertise on hospital management.

* Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF): fund managed and operated by the Korean government to provide support for industrial development and economic stability in developing countries via low interest long-term loans. It also aims to increase economic trade and promote cooperation between Korea and developing countries. The fund was established in 1987 and entrusted to Korea Eximbank for management and operation. Since establishment, EDCF has approved KRW 8,125.3 billion in support for 277 projects in 49 nations.

Representatives of Korea Eximbank stated that the construction of urgently needed healthcare and medical infrastructure would significantly contribute to enhancing public health and lay the foundation for future cooperation with South Sudan, a newly independent nation* with rich natural resources** and great potential for growth.

* In July 2011, South Sudan became the world's 193rd nation after gaining independence from Sudan and finally ending the longest civil war in modern history (22 years).

** Natural resources include oil (ranking fifth in Africa in terms of reserves), iron, gold, and copper.

The second part of the two-part project, called the Tonj Village Rebuilding Project, will be implemented to rebuild the Tonj Village Hospital, which has fallen on tough times since the passing of Father John Lee. Lee Tae-Suk Clinics will also be built in neighboring villages where victims of leprosy reside. Father Lee was especially devoted to assisting those afflicted with leprosy in the village.

In addition, schools and clinics bearing his name will be built in villages across the country and Korean volunteers will assist with operation of the new facilities.

(continued on part 2 of 2)