A two-day Virtual Orientation on Strengthening Health Emergency Operations Centre (HEOC) capacity in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPR Korea) was held from 22 to 23 October 2025. The event was jointly organized by the WHO and the Ministry of Public Health, DPR Korea, with technical support and facilitation from WHO SEARO.
The orientation aimed to further strengthen national capacity for effective coordination, preparedness and response to public health emergencies by enhancing understanding of the concept, framework and core functions of HEOC.
The specific objectives of the orientation were to enhance participants’ understanding of the core functions, guiding principles and framework of HEOCs; to discuss and share the current status, regional updates and good practices in HEOC management; and to identify opportunities to strengthen the HEOC network. The programme also sought to build the capacity of national experts to support emergency coordination, facilitate operational decision-making and contribute to effective HEOC management during public health emergencies.
More than ten officials from the Ministry of Public Health, responsible for health emergency preparedness and response, participated in the event. Over two days, participants engaged in technical sessions covering key aspects of HEOC development, including HEOC principles and core components, the Incident Management System, risk mapping, planning and operation of HEOCs, information management, and an introduction to Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs).
The orientation was tailored to the national context of DPR Korea, focusing on strengthening coordination structures, streamlining information flow between national and subnational levels, and enhancing readiness for future health emergencies. Participants deepened their understanding of HEOC operations and the coordination of information as a central hub for managing emergency response activities across all types of hazards.
The virtual orientation marked a significant step in strengthening national capacity for health emergency preparedness and response. Enhanced HEOC capacity will enable more coordinated, informed and timely action during future public health emergencies, reinforcing the country’s commitment to building a resilient health emergency management system.