Lebanese Delegation Visiting Korea for Five Days as Part of Dongmyeong Unit Deployment Program

Resumed After Five Years...
Program Includes Social Infrastructure Restoration and More

The Joint Chiefs of Staff announced on May 7 that a delegation from Lebanon, consisting of local market representatives and key figures from various sectors, will visit South Korea for a five-day program until May 11. Lebanon is the country where the Dongmyeong Unit, deployed as part of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), is currently active.

The training program for Lebanese participants in South Korea was first launched in 2008 to promote friendship between South Korea and Lebanon, and more than 400 people have participated so far. This year’s program marks its resumption after a five-year hiatus since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Yonhap News Agency

During the five-year suspension of the program, Lebanon suffered the destruction of much of its infrastructure as a result of explosions and armed conflicts. Taking into account these local conditions in Lebanon, the military has included activities in the program that can provide practical assistance for the restoration of social infrastructure and administrative systems, even within the short schedule.

On the second day, the delegation will visit the Saemaul Undong Central Association, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), and Seoul City Hall. They will learn about South Korea’s experience of achieving rapid industrialization and democratization after the war, meet with experts in various fields, and discuss ways to support Lebanon’s reconstruction and recovery.

On the third day, the group will visit the Dora Observation Post and the Third Infiltration Tunnel to experience the efforts and stature of the South Korean military in safeguarding national security. They will also visit the War Memorial of Korea to reflect on Lebanon’s role as a material support country during the Korean War, review the history of the Dongmyeong Unit’s deployment, and recall the long-standing friendship between South Korea and Lebanon.

George Maayla An Mary (66), Director of the National Museum of Lebanon and a member of the delegation, said, “It will be a very meaningful experience to witness firsthand how the Republic of Korea has emerged as a strong nation in such a short time, despite the great crisis of the Korean War. I will strive to learn as much as possible and share Korea’s outstanding culture and achievements with Lebanon.”