Berlin, Germany – A collaborative effort between South Korean manufacturing firm Seajae Steel and the international NGO Global Care is bringing critical surgical aid to children in Vietnam and Laos born with congenital facial deformities. The initiative, backed by a 30 million Korean Won (approximately $22,500 USD as of February 26, 2026) donation from Seajae Steel, will deploy a specialized surgical team, known as the Inji Club, to provide life-changing procedures and training to local medical professionals. This undertaking addresses a significant healthcare gap in these Southeast Asian nations, offering hope and improved quality of life to children often facing social stigma and functional difficulties.
Congenital facial deformities, such as cleft lip and palate, are among the most common birth defects globally, particularly in regions with limited access to specialized medical care. These conditions can lead to challenges in feeding, speech development, and overall well-being. Beyond the physical implications, children with these conditions often experience social isolation and discrimination. The work of Global Care and the Inji Club aims to not only correct these deformities through surgical intervention but too to build sustainable capacity within the local healthcare systems of Vietnam and Laos. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 1 in 500 to 1 in 1000 babies are born with a cleft lip and/or palate worldwide. WHO Fact Sheet on Cleft Lip and Palate
Addressing a Critical Need in Vietnam and Laos
The Inji Club, comprised of experienced South Korean plastic surgeons, is scheduled to travel to Vietnam and Laos later this month to operate on approximately 60 children. The surgical team will focus on correcting cleft lip and palate, procedures that can dramatically improve a child’s ability to eat, speak, and integrate into society. Beyond the immediate surgical benefits, the initiative includes a crucial component of knowledge transfer. The Inji Club will conduct training sessions for local medical personnel, sharing advanced surgical techniques and best practices to enhance the long-term availability of specialized care within these countries. This commitment to capacity building is a hallmark of Global Care’s approach to international medical assistance.
The 30 million Won donation from Seajae Steel will directly cover the costs of hospitalization and surgery for these children, removing a significant financial barrier to accessing essential medical care. Seajae Steel, a leading manufacturer of steel pipes, has demonstrated a commitment to corporate social responsibility through this partnership with Global Care. According to a statement released by Global Care Chairman Baek Eun-chan, the company’s generosity will “open a new chapter in the lives of these children.”
Global Care’s Long-Standing Commitment to the Region
Global Care has been actively involved in providing free surgical care for children with congenital facial deformities in the Indo-China region since 1997. Working in collaboration with the Inji Club, the organization has extended its reach to Vietnam, Laos, and Myanmar, offering not only surgical interventions but also ongoing medical education and exchange programs. This sustained commitment reflects a holistic approach to improving healthcare outcomes and fostering long-term partnerships with local communities. Since its inception, Global Care has prioritized the training of local medical professionals, recognizing that sustainable improvements in healthcare require a skilled and empowered workforce. The organization’s efforts align with broader global health initiatives aimed at reducing disparities in access to essential surgical care.
The Importance of Surgical Capacity Building
The transfer of surgical expertise is a critical component of Global Care’s mission. By providing training and mentorship to local surgeons, the organization aims to create a ripple effect, enabling them to continue providing high-quality care long after the Inji Club has departed. This approach is particularly important in countries like Vietnam and Laos, where access to specialized medical services can be limited, especially in rural areas. The training programs often involve both hands-on surgical workshops and opportunities for local surgeons to travel to South Korea for advanced training and observation. This exchange of knowledge and skills strengthens the overall healthcare infrastructure and ensures that more children can benefit from life-changing surgical interventions.
The relationship between Laos and Vietnam is historically significant, with deep cultural and political ties. According to Wikipedia, the two nations maintain a “special relationship” characterized by close cooperation and mutual support. This existing framework of collaboration may facilitate the logistical and administrative aspects of the surgical mission, ensuring its smooth and effective implementation.
Looking Ahead: Continued Support and Expansion
While the current initiative focuses on providing surgical care to 60 children, both Global Care and Seajae Steel have expressed a commitment to continued support for this vital program. Future plans may include expanding the scope of the surgical missions to reach more children in need and strengthening the capacity of local healthcare facilities. The success of this partnership serves as a model for other corporate-NGO collaborations aimed at addressing critical healthcare challenges in underserved communities. The long-term impact of these efforts will be measured not only by the number of surgeries performed but also by the improved quality of life for the children and families affected by congenital facial deformities.
The next step for the Inji Club is their departure for Vietnam and Laos later this month, where they will begin the process of screening patients and preparing for surgery. Global Care will continue to provide updates on the progress of the mission through its official blog and social media channels. We encourage readers to learn more about Global Care’s work and consider supporting their efforts to provide life-changing medical care to children in need. Share this article to raise awareness about the importance of addressing congenital facial deformities and the power of international collaboration in improving global health.
Worth a look