In a significant move for 2024, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has taken over the core-fund budget for the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) from the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MoHW). This transfer marks a return to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' stewardship of the core fund, aligning with historical practices prior to 2006.

On November 29, UNFPA received approximately $1 million (equivalent to $926,784 due to currency exchange) as part of its core resources for 2024. This transition follows a decision by the Ministry of Economy and Finance, which was persuaded by MoFA to reallocate the funding responsibilities back to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Historically, until 2005, the Republic of Korea's (RoK) core fund to UNFPA was managed under the Official Development Assistance (ODA) project by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the former name of MoFA. In 2006, the budget holder was transferred to MoHW. However, in a strategic move in 2023, MoFA successfully advocated for the funding to be returned to its jurisdiction, emphasizing the importance of consolidating international aid efforts within the Ministry responsible for foreign affairs.

This shift is expected to enhance the coordination and effectiveness of Korea's contributions to UNFPA, ensuring a more streamlined approach to supporting global population and development initiatives. 

UNFPA appreciates the dedication of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) of the Republic of Korea to delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled.