Bringing light to the Lao people at Borikhamxay provincial hospital in Laos

The Laos Free Eye Surgery Volunteer Group, hosted by District 354-A (Korea) of the International Association of Lions Clubs (Governor Byungju Kim) and organised by the Seoul Namsan Lions Club (President Chi-Seung Song), conducted a medical mission at Borikhamxay Provincial Hospital from June 8 to 13, 2025.

This project was carried out with the approval and support of the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Health, and the Department of Public Health of Borikhamxay Province. Coordination with the Lao government was facilitated by Gateway Law Firm Co., LTD, with attorney Chomchay Phommy acting as the local liaison.
A total of 42 volunteers participated in this mission, including:
• 17 medical professionals: 6 ophthalmologists, 6 nurses, and 5 medical engineers, led by Dr Byung Joo Song.
• 13 Lions Club members in the support team, led by Governor Byungju Kim.
• 12 local interpreters who played a key role in communication and patient care.
As of the morning of June 12, the team had treated 387 outpatients and successfully performed surgeries on 122 individuals, including procedures for cataracts and pterygium. The mission aims to complete surgeries for up to 200 patients by the final day.

The Korean medical team, composed of some of Korea’s top specialists, brought with them 91 boxes of state-of-the-art medical equipment and supplies, weighing over six tons. According to Dr Byung Joo Song, the head of the medical team, many of the patients had advanced cataracts and pterygium due to prolonged exposure to intense ultraviolet rays and challenging environmental conditions.
Dr Song noted, “Because of the severe condition of the patients, our team worked tirelessly from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., even rotating meal breaks to ensure surgeries could continue without pause.” He also expressed deep gratitude to the Borikhamxay Health Department and hospital staff for their outstanding cooperation, promotion, and logistical support that helped draw in patients and facilitate smooth operations.
Most importantly, the local patients and their families expressed overwhelming gratitude, saying this free eye surgery programme in Pakxan had exceeded their expectations. In addition to restoring vision, the team provided high-quality artificial lenses that eliminated the need for glasses post-surgery. Patients also received thorough post-operative care, including medications, sunglasses, and magnifying glasses.
Governor Kim and Dr Song both emphasized that beyond medical aid, this mission is a meaningful step in strengthening the friendship and goodwill between Korea and Laos.

By Advertorial Desk
 (Latest Update June 13, 2025)