Seoul/Geneva, 20 October 2026 – Unitaid welcomes a new US$13 million contribution from the Republic of Korea for 2026 to expand access to lifesaving health innovations in low- and middle-income countries, with a strong focus on pandemic preparedness and response.
The contribution builds on Korea’s sustained support for Unitaid’s work to ensure countries have the tools they need before and during health emergencies. This includes strengthening regional manufacturing to make supply chains more resilient, expanding diagnostic systems that can respond to emerging threats, and preparing for the rapid introduction of new diagnostics and treatments.
“The next pandemic will not wait for us to be ready. We cannot discover then that lifesaving tools are missing, or beyond the reach of the countries that need them,” said Anne-Claire Amprou, Chair of Unitaid’s Executive Board. “By investing now in innovation, including diagnostics, and in equitable access, the Republic of Korea is showing the sustained leadership that preparedness demands. When the next threat emerges, countries will be ready to act.”
This support comes as Unitaid works with partners to address urgent needs in the Bundibugyo Ebola response, including protecting health workers, maintaining essential health services and preparing for access to promising new diagnostics and treatments should they prove safe and effective. These efforts reflect a broader approach to preparedness: addressing today’s gaps while strengthening countries’ ability to respond to future threats.
“Ensuring equitable access to lifesaving health tools is both a shared responsibility and an investment in our collective security,” said Mr. Wook-Jin Chang, Deputy Minister for Multilateral and Global Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea. “Through our longstanding partnership with Unitaid, we are helping countries turn health innovation into practical solutions and prepare for future emergencies. The Republic of Korea remains committed to international cooperation that delivers tangible benefits for the most vulnerable communities.”
A partner since 2008, the Republic of Korea has contributed US$145 million to Unitaid, alongside expertise in biotechnology, diagnostics and manufacturing. Unitaid’s engagement spans Korea’s ministries of foreign affairs and health and welfare, civil society, industry and universities, connecting innovation with the needs of countries and communities.
Kyle Wilkinson
Communications officer
+41 79 445 17 45
[email protected]