WHO has named the Global Harmonization Centre in the Republic of Korea as a new collaborating centre. It will focus on stronger regulation and professional training for medicines, vaccines and other health products. The National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation hosts the centre. It works under Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
WHO says about 70% of its Member States still lack well-functioning regulatory systems. A shortage of skilled professionals is especially serious in low- and middle-income countries. The centre will offer structured, competency-based training and help expand the regulatory workforce. This work builds on almost two decades of cooperation between WHO and Korean authorities. Continuous learning matters as science, technology and global supply chains change. Stronger expertise can help countries check that health products are safe, effective and quality-assured.