2400 tons of rice.. Korean contribution to the World Food Program in Syria

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has received  a contribution of 2,400 metric tons of rice from the Republic of Korea, strengthening support to the most vulnerable families across Syria and reaching some 1.2 million people for one month.

Rice shipments have arrived at WFP warehouses, and distributions have already begun to ensure that aid reaches the most needy families.

Marianne Ward, Country Director and WFP Representative in Syria, said: "The continued support of the Republic of Korea is essential to help WFP sustain its assistance to the most vulnerable people across Syria. Reliable contributions like this allow us to plan effectively and respond in a timely manner."

Strategic partnership and record support

The Republic of Korea is a long-standing partner of WFP in Syria, regularly making in-kind rice contributions that contribute to sustaining food assistance operations and ensuring continued support for vulnerable families.

Building on this commitment, the Republic of Korea has strengthened its assistance in 2025 with its largest ever contribution to the response in Syria, worth  US$10 million. This funding has enabled WFP to support 94,500 people during six months of cash assistance. Each household received US$65 per month, which can be redeemed from 300 WFP  contracted stores in 12 governorates, which allowed families to meet their food needs and give them dignity, freedom of choice and stability.

Korea: Firm Commitment to Humanitarian Support for Syria

  South Korea's  Ambassador to Syria, Gyeong-suk-gyun, said: "This contribution underscores our unwavering commitment to supporting humanitarian efforts in Syria, where millions continue to face significant challenges amid continued instability.

"The Republic of Korea remains committed to partnering with the World Food Programme (WFP) and other international organizations to alleviate suffering, enhance food security, and build resilience," Gyeon said.

As humanitarian needs continue to rise and resource constraints increase, sustainable partnerships remain critical to ensuring that life-saving assistance continues to reach those who need it most.

Cash assistance and enhancing the dignity of the beneficiary

Thanks to this historic funding, WFP in Syria was able to implement a parallel in-kind assistance track, supporting 94,500 people for six months through cash assistance , allocating US$65 per month to each beneficiary family and providing freedom of choice through 300 WFP contracted shops in 12 governorates of Syria.

This mechanism aims to provide the targeted families with stability and dignity, by enabling them to purchase their diverse food needs according to their own priorities.