1. AREAS OF ACTIVITY
The activities of Handicap International in North Korea are
mainly aimed at re-establishing production of prostheses and
orthoses, a sector which has literally been at a standstill
for more than ten years, while also supporting the orthopedic
hospital in Hamhung. We also provide support for a local
association in order to create legal mechanisms to protect
disabled people.

2. REVIEW OF OUR ACTIVITIES

The Korean Association to Support Disabled People (KASD)
called upon Handicap International in June 1998. Following
this request, we have carried out a number of exploratory
missions to assess the situation and the needs. On the basis
of these assessments and numerous meetings with the KASD and
representatives from the Ministry of Health, activities began
in March 2001. A workshop was set up in Hamhung and
technicians were trained in prosthesis production.
Distribution of crutches and wheelchairs took place at
various locations. In parallel with this, institutional
support was provided to KASD and awareness raising tools were
developed. The wording of the legislative texts, if they are
officially recognised, makes it possible to create the basis
for recognition of disabled people and their rights in the
country. These activities are continuing in 2003, as well as
support for the leading orthopedic hospital, also in Hamhung.

3. DETAILED LOCALISATION

This operation is mostly based in the city of Hamhung on the
East coast.

4. DESCRIPTION OF OUR ACTIVITIES
Coaching of 24 orthoprosthesists who are in training.

Reinforcing the management of the workshop.

Participation in building a new workshop.

Distribution of walking aids and crutches.

Supervision of the physiotherapy division and these 4 re-
educators.

Selection of patients awaiting a prosthesis, giving priority
to children

Production of prostheses.

Support for the KASD in carrying out its mandate.

Assistance with renovation of the infrastructure of the
orthopedic hospital in Hamhung and supply of equipment.

5. BENEFICIARIES
1,500 disabled people have received a prosthesis.

24 orthoprosthetic technicians from Hamhung, 4 retrainers.

1,000 people have received crutches.

200 wheelchairs.

The patients of the 400-bed orthopedic hospital at Hamhung
and its personnel.

6. LOCAL PARTNERS
The KASD and the orthopedic workshop in Hamhung.
7. HUMAN RESOURCES, EQUIPMENT AND TECHNICAL RESOURCES

24 technicians

4 retrainers

10 people in the KASD

4 expatriates

equipment for the orthopedic workshop

consumables for the workshop and the physiotherapy department

3 vehicles

Computers, office equipment, communication resources