From Aid-Recipient Country to Donor Country
Explore how Korea transformed from an aid-recipient country to a donor country through National Archives
Newsweek Article Showcasing Korea’s Economic Development (1977) by National Film WorksNational Archives of Korea
War-ravaged Korea, devastated by the Korean War, laid the foundation for reconstruction with support from the UNKRA and other organizations. By the mid-1970s, Korea had achieved rapid economic growth and shed its status as an aid recipient in the international community.
Materials for Global Development Think Tank Programs (1985) by Ministry of Foreign AffairsNational Archives of Korea
Korea began providing supplies to developing countries in 1977. In 1982, Korea initiated the Global Development Think Tank Summit Program, organized by Korea Development Institute (KDI), to share its development experience with international leaders from developing nations.
Opening Ceremony of the Export-Import Bank of Korea (1976) by The Bureau of Public InformationNational Archives of Korea
This photograph captures the opening ceremony of the Export-Import Bank of Korea. In 1987, Korea established the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) through the bank to provide financial support to developing nations, in partnership with the UNDP.
Korea’s UN Membership Approved at the UNSC (1991) by The Bureau of Public InformationNational Archives of Korea
On September 17, 1991, South and North Korea were simultaneously admitted to the United Nations. South Korea became the 161st member, taking on an active role in addressing the UN’s diverse global agenda.
Establishment of KOICA(the Korea International Cooperation Agency) Promotion of the Establishment of KOICA (1990) by The Bureau of Science and TechnologyNational Archives of Korea
In 1991, Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), an official agency overseeing international aid-related efforts, was established.
Establishment of KOICA(the Korea International Cooperation Agency) Main Functions of KOICA (1990) by The Bureau of Science and TechnologyNational Archives of Korea
KOICA plays a central role in leading Korea’s international aid efforts, including technical cooperation, grants, youth volunteers, medical teams, Taekwondo instructors, and overseas migration and employment services.
Introduction to KOICA (1991) by The Bureau of Public InformationNational Archives of Korea
This is an introductory video showcasing KOICA.
Farewell Ceremony for UN Peacekeeping Deployment to Somalia (1993) by The Bureau of Public InformationNational Archives of Korea
Since joining the United Nations, Korea has participated in peacekeeping operations (PKO) in response to the UN’s requests.
Sangnoksu Unit Distributing Relief Supplies in East Timor (1999) by The Bureau of Public InformationNational Archives of Korea
Korea’s involvement in peacekeeping activities has steadily increased over time. The nation has been active in Angola, East Timor, Western Sahara, Lebanon, Haiti, and South Sudan, among other places, and also contributes financially to UN peacekeeping efforts.
UN General Assembly (2006) by UNNational Archives of Korea
In 2006, Ban Ki-moon was elected UN Secretary-General. Korea, once an aid recipient, had raised its status to producing the UN’s leader. Today, Korea plays a proactive role in international relief and peacekeeping, affirming its place as a vital global community member.
From war-torn nation to international aid provider. Learn about Korea's post-war recovery and the U.S. support contributed to the revival of the Korean economy.
