South Korean Army Extends Vital Medical Support to Villages Near Demilitarized Zone
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Providing crucial healthcare access to remote communities, the Republic of Korea Army’s 1st division has continued its monthly “Visiting Medical Service to the Civilian North Region” program, offering essential medical care to residents living near the heavily fortified Civilian Control line and within the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).
The Army’s 1st Division announced on January 16, 2026, that it conducted medical services for village residents in the Paju region of Gyeonggi Province on January 15, 2026, as part of its New Year initiatives. This ongoing effort addresses a critical gap in healthcare access for these isolated communities.
Addressing Healthcare Disparities Along the Civilian control Line
Since last year, the 1st Division Medical Battalion has prioritized regular visits to villages along the Civilian Control Line. These services encompass a range of medical support, including oriental medicine, physical therapy, and oral checkups, tailored to the specific needs of the residents. On January 15th, residents from Tongilchon and Haemaruchon, both within the Civilian Control Line, as well as the unique village of Daeseong-dong located inside the DMZ, gathered at the Tongilchon Senior Center in Gunnae-myeon, Paju-si. A total of 50 residents received care on this particular day, bringing the total number of medical cases served as the program’s inception to 512.
“We are providing medical services considering the characteristics of the village residents, who are mainly engaged in agriculture and are elderly,” explained Lieutenant Colonel Park Chae-yeon, commander of the medical battalion. This targeted approach ensures that the care provided is relevant and effective for the population served.
The Unique Challenges of Life Near the DMZ
The three civilian villages within the Paju Civilian Control Line each have distinct histories. Daeseong-dong, established within the DMZ following the 1953 Armistice Agreement, represents a unique case of civilian life existing within a highly restricted military zone. Tongilchon was created in 1972 as part of a development policy focused on the northern area of the Civilian Control Line, while Haemaruchon was established in 2001 to provide a home for displaced people from Jangdan-gun.
The lack of adequate medical facilities in the area presents important challenges for residents. “There are many difficulties for residents in the Minbuk area as there are no proper facilities to receive proper medical services,” stated Lee Wan-bae, head of Tongil Village. “The 1st Division Medical battalion visits regularly, and residents are very satisfied.”
Expanding Healthcare Initiatives
Beyond immediate medical treatment, the military is planning to expand the program to include education and counseling focused on preventing lifestyle diseases such as drinking and obesity. This proactive approach aims to improve the long-term health and well-being of the communities.
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The ongoing commitment of the Republic of Korea Army demonstrates a dedication to supporting the health and welfare of even the most remote and vulnerable populations within
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