São Tomé – August 2024

In August 2024, Dr. Kim joined an international team of healthcare professionals, including orthopedic surgeons, dentists, and nutritionists, to provide medical aid to the people of São Tomé and Príncipe.

With a population of around 230,000, this island nation faces significant healthcare challenges due to limited resources. The team worked together to offer essential treatments, from musculoskeletal care to dental services and nutritional support, aiming to improve health outcomes and provide much-needed relief to the local population.

Dr Kim’s father has been leading these medical volunteer groups around the world for the last 30 years.

Dr Kim gathered with the Korean and Japanese team in South Korea.

After just under 22 hours of flying from Seoul, South Korea, the Asia–Pacific team landed. They were later joined by members from the United States and other African nations.

The team gathering and discussing the plan for the next 5 days. At this point the team had no idea of the type of patients they could have or the number of patients they would see each day.

Over the course of three days, the medical team saw over 3,000 patients and handled more than 5,000 cases. Patients presented with a variety of health issues, requiring care across different specialties. Despite the high number of cases, the team worked efficiently to provide essential treatments, addressing a range of medical needs and contributing positively to the health of the community.

After the three-day mission, the medical team donated all their equipment and supplies to the local hospital, ensuring continued support for the community’s healthcare needs. As they prepared to return home, the team was warmly farewelled.