Seoul gives 15,000mt rice

South Korea has provided Bangladesh with 15,000 metric tons (mt) of rice and 150mt of fortified rice kernels to support food security and nutrition among Rohingya refugees, as the protracted humanitarian crisis enters its 10th year.

The rice was handed over at a function on Thursday at the World Food Programme’s (WFP) Sagarika warehouse in Chattogram.

The assistance, provided through the Republic of Korea’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA), will support the WFP’s food assistance programme for Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar.

South Korea previously contributed 15,000mt in 2024 and 20,265mt in 2025 to the Rohingya response.

This year’s contribution also includes 150mt of fortified rice kernels containing essential vitamins and minerals. The kernels will be blended with the donated rice to enhance its nutritional value, particularly for children and other vulnerable groups. The blended rice will then be transported to Cox’s Bazar and distributed through WFP’s general food assistance programme.

“On behalf of Bangladesh, we sincerely appreciate the Korean government and people for this valuable contribution,” said ABM Shafiqul Haidar, additional secretary at the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief. “It reflects our enduring friendship and shared commitment to addressing humanitarian challenges and supporting those in need.”

“We are pleased to continue Korea’s support for Rohingya refugees through this contribution of rice and fortified rice kernels. By adding essential micronutrients to food assistance, we hope to support not only food security but also better nutrition outcomes for vulnerable families,” said Kim Ji-joon, ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Bangladesh.