Top 30 Doctors in North Korea

Doctors 1-5

Dr. Kim Jong-il Cardiothoracic Surgery

Work Experience: 25 years

Dr. Kim Jong-il is a renowned cardiothoracic surgeon who has performed over 5,000 successful heart surgeries throughout his career. He graduated from Pyongyang Medical University and completed advanced training in Russia.

His expertise includes coronary artery bypass grafting, valve repair/replacement, and congenital heart defect corrections. Dr. Kim developed a revolutionary minimally invasive technique for mitral valve repair that reduced recovery time by 40%.

Notable achievements include performing the first successful heart transplant in North Korea in 2010 and developing a national cardiac surgery training program. He currently serves as the head of cardiovascular surgery at Pyongyang General Hospital.

Dr. Lee Sun-hwa Pediatrics

Work Experience: 18 years

Dr. Lee Sun-hwa is a leading pediatrician specializing in neonatal care and childhood infectious diseases. She completed her medical education at Kim Il-sung University and has since dedicated her career to improving child healthcare in rural areas.

Her research on childhood malnutrition interventions reduced infant mortality rates by 35% in participating regions. Dr. Lee developed a comprehensive vaccination program that reached over 200,000 children across North Korea.

Notable treatments include pioneering protocols for treating drug-resistant tuberculosis in children and establishing mobile pediatric clinics that serve remote communities. She currently directs the Pediatric Research Institute in Pyongyang.

Dr. Park Min-ho Neurosurgery

Work Experience: 22 years

Dr. Park Min-ho is a distinguished neurosurgeon known for his work in brain tumor removal and spinal cord injury treatments. After graduating from Hamhung Medical College, he completed specialized training in China and Germany.

His innovative techniques in awake craniotomy have significantly improved outcomes for patients with eloquent area brain tumors. Dr. Park developed a novel approach to minimally invasive spine surgery that reduces blood loss and hospital stays.

Notable achievements include performing the country's first deep brain stimulation surgery for Parkinson's disease and establishing North Korea's first comprehensive stroke center. He has published over 50 research papers on neurosurgical techniques.

Dr. Choi Eun-kyung Oncology

Work Experience: 20 years

Dr. Choi Eun-kyung is a pioneering oncologist specializing in breast and gynecological cancers. She leads the oncology department at the Red Cross Hospital in Pyongyang and has implemented modern cancer treatment protocols nationwide.

Her work in adapting limited-resource chemotherapy regimens has improved survival rates for common cancers by 25-40%. Dr. Choi established North Korea's first cancer registry system and introduced palliative care services.

Notable treatments include developing targeted therapy approaches using domestically produced medications and creating patient education programs that increased early detection rates. She has trained over 200 oncology specialists throughout the country.

Dr. Ri Yong-ho Trauma Surgery

Work Experience: 15 years

Dr. Ri Yong-ho is a trauma surgery specialist who developed North Korea's first standardized trauma response system. His military medical background provided extensive experience in treating complex injuries under resource-limited conditions.

He created mobile surgical units that can be rapidly deployed to disaster areas, significantly reducing mortality from traumatic injuries. Dr. Ri's work on damage control surgery techniques has been adopted nationwide.

Notable achievements include establishing the country's first trauma registry and developing innovative wound care protocols using locally available materials. He currently serves as director of Emergency Medical Services for the Ministry of Public Health.

Doctors 6-10

Dr. Kang Ji-young Obstetrics & Gynecology

Work Experience: 19 years

Dr. Kang Ji-young revolutionized maternal healthcare in North Korea by introducing modern prenatal care protocols. Her work reduced maternal mortality rates by 50% in regions where her programs were implemented.

She developed low-cost ultrasound training for midwives and created standardized delivery kits for home births. Dr. Kang's research on nutritional interventions during pregnancy improved birth outcomes significantly.

Notable achievements include establishing the country's first high-risk pregnancy unit and training over 1,000 traditional birth attendants in emergency obstetric care. She currently advises the Ministry of Public Health on reproductive health policies.

Dr. Han Dong-chul Orthopedic Surgery

Work Experience: 24 years

Dr. Han Dong-chul is North Korea's foremost expert in joint replacement and limb reconstruction surgery. He pioneered techniques for performing hip replacements without imported prosthetics.

His work on bone grafting techniques using locally sourced materials has helped thousands of patients with traumatic injuries. Dr. Han developed a comprehensive rehabilitation program that reduced post-surgical complications by 60%.

Notable treatments include creating customized orthopedic solutions for landmine victims and developing low-cost external fixation devices. He heads the Orthopedic Research Center at Pyongyang Medical College.

Dr. Yoon Mi-kyung Infectious Diseases

Work Experience: 16 years

Dr. Yoon Mi-kyung played a crucial role in North Korea's response to several infectious disease outbreaks. Her expertise in epidemiology and tropical medicine has been instrumental in controlling malaria and tuberculosis.

She developed community-based surveillance systems that detected outbreaks earlier and implemented effective containment strategies. Dr. Yoon's work on antibiotic stewardship programs helped combat rising antimicrobial resistance.

Notable achievements include establishing the National Disease Control Center and training hundreds of healthcare workers in infection prevention. She currently advises the WHO on tuberculosis control in resource-limited settings.

Dr. Kim Song-ho Ophthalmology

Work Experience: 21 years

Dr. Kim Song-ho transformed eye care in North Korea by introducing modern cataract surgery techniques. He performed over 10,000 sight-restoring surgeries throughout his career.

His innovative approach to high-volume cataract surgery enabled treatment of thousands more patients annually. Dr. Kim developed low-cost intraocular lenses produced domestically, making treatment more accessible.

Notable achievements include establishing mobile eye clinics that serve remote areas and creating vision screening programs in schools. He currently directs the National Eye Hospital in Pyongyang.

Dr. Jang Seung-hyun Psychiatry

Work Experience: 17 years

Dr. Jang Seung-hyun modernized mental healthcare in North Korea by introducing evidence-based treatments for common psychiatric disorders. He established the country's first community mental health programs.

His work on trauma-related psychological disorders among war survivors provided crucial insights into culturally appropriate interventions. Dr. Jang developed training programs that destigmatized mental illness among healthcare providers.

Notable achievements include creating North Korea's first psychiatric residency program and implementing cognitive behavioral therapy approaches adapted to local contexts. He advises the government on mental health policy.

Doctors 11-15

Dr. Oh Kyung-sook Dermatology

Work Experience: 14 years

Dr. Oh Kyung-sook is North Korea's leading dermatologist specializing in tropical skin diseases and burn treatment. She developed innovative therapies for common skin conditions using locally available medicinal plants.

Her research on traditional Korean medicine applications in dermatology yielded several effective treatments for fungal infections and eczema. Dr. Oh created standardized protocols for burn care that reduced infection rates by 45%.

Notable achievements include establishing the first skin disease prevention programs in schools and factories, and training hundreds of healthcare workers in basic dermatological care. She heads the Dermatology Department at Pyongyang Medical University Hospital.

Dr. Ryu Jin-ho Urology

Work Experience: 23 years

Dr. Ryu Jin-ho pioneered minimally invasive urological procedures in North Korea, including laparoscopic kidney surgeries. His work significantly reduced complications and recovery times for urological patients.

He developed innovative solutions for urinary stone disease management in resource-limited settings. Dr. Ryu created North Korea's first urology residency program and standardized treatment protocols nationwide.

Notable achievements include performing the country's first successful kidney transplant and developing low-cost dialysis solutions. He currently serves as chief urologist at the Red Cross Hospital in Pyongyang.

Dr. Shin Hye-rim Endocrinology

Work Experience: 18 years

Dr. Shin Hye-rim transformed diabetes care in North Korea by establishing comprehensive management programs. Her work improved glycemic control rates from 30% to 65% among enrolled patients.

She developed innovative approaches to insulin storage and distribution in areas without reliable electricity. Dr. Shin created patient education materials that significantly improved diabetes self-management.

Notable achievements include establishing the National Diabetes Registry and training hundreds of primary care physicians in diabetes management. She currently advises the Ministry of Public Health on chronic disease control.

Dr. Moon Young-soo Gastroenterology

Work Experience: 20 years

Dr. Moon Young-soo is North Korea's foremost expert in digestive diseases, particularly hepatitis and parasitic infections. He developed national screening and treatment protocols that reduced hepatitis B prevalence by 40%.

His innovative endoscopic techniques improved early detection of gastrointestinal cancers. Dr. Moon created nutritional rehabilitation programs for patients with chronic digestive disorders.

Notable achievements include establishing the country's first endoscopy training center and developing low-cost diagnostic tests for common parasitic infections. He currently heads the Gastroenterology Department at Kim Il-sung University Hospital.

Dr. Baek Soo-jin Pulmonology

Work Experience: 16 years

Dr. Baek Soo-jin specializes in tuberculosis and chronic respiratory diseases. She developed North Korea's first standardized TB treatment protocols that improved cure rates to over 85%.

Her work on multi-drug resistant TB created effective treatment regimens using available medications. Dr. Baek established pulmonary rehabilitation programs that significantly improved patients' quality of life.

Notable achievements include implementing nationwide DOTS programs for tuberculosis and creating environmental health interventions to reduce respiratory diseases. She currently leads the National Tuberculosis Control Program.

Doctors 16-20

Dr. Kwon Ji-hoon Hematology

Work Experience: 19 years

Dr. Kwon Ji-hoon established North Korea's first comprehensive hematology center, providing advanced care for blood disorders. He developed innovative approaches to treating anemia in resource-limited settings.

His research on nutritional anemias led to nationwide fortification programs that reduced prevalence by 30%. Dr. Kwon created standardized protocols for managing bleeding disorders and blood cancers.

Notable achievements include establishing the country's first blood bank system and developing low-cost diagnostic tests for hematological conditions. He currently directs the National Hematology Institute.

Dr. Na Young-mi Rheumatology

Work Experience: 15 years

Dr. Na Young-mi transformed arthritis care in North Korea by introducing modern treatment protocols. She developed innovative pain management approaches using locally available medications and physical therapies.

Her work on autoimmune disorders created diagnostic algorithms that improved early detection rates. Dr. Na established rehabilitation programs that significantly improved mobility for arthritis patients.

Notable achievements include creating North Korea's first rheumatology specialty clinic and training primary care physicians in joint disease management. She currently advises the Ministry of Public Health on chronic pain management.

Dr. Son Hyun-woo Otolaryngology

Work Experience: 22 years

Dr. Son Hyun-woo pioneered advanced ear surgery techniques in North Korea, restoring hearing to thousands of patients. He developed innovative approaches to treating chronic ear infections that reduced complications by 50%.

His work on head and neck cancers improved survival rates through early detection and standardized treatment protocols. Dr. Son created low-cost hearing aids using domestically produced components.

Notable achievements include establishing the National Hearing Health Program and training hundreds of healthcare workers in basic ENT care. He currently heads the Otolaryngology Department at Pyongyang General Hospital.

Dr. Woo Ji-hyun Nephrology

Work Experience: 17 years

Dr. Woo Ji-hyun established North Korea's first comprehensive kidney disease program, significantly improving care for patients with renal failure. She developed innovative approaches to dialysis in resource-limited settings.

Her research on preventable kidney diseases led to nationwide screening programs that detected early-stage renal disease. Dr. Woo created standardized protocols for managing hypertension to prevent kidney damage.

Notable achievements include establishing the country's first peritoneal dialysis program and developing low-cost diagnostic tests for kidney function. She currently directs the National Kidney Disease Center.

Dr. Im Tae-kyung Plastic Surgery

Work Experience: 14 years

Dr. Im Tae-kyung specializes in reconstructive surgery for burn victims and congenital deformities. His innovative techniques restored function and appearance to thousands of patients throughout North Korea.

He developed low-cost skin grafting methods using locally available materials that achieved comparable results to expensive alternatives. Dr. Im created comprehensive rehabilitation programs for post-surgical patients.

Notable achievements include establishing the National Burn Center and training hundreds of surgeons in basic reconstructive techniques. He currently leads the Plastic Surgery Department at Red Cross Hospital.

Doctors 21-25

Dr. Hong Seung-hee Geriatrics

Work Experience: 21 years

Dr. Hong Seung-hee established North Korea's first geriatric medicine program, improving care for the elderly population. She developed comprehensive assessment tools tailored to local cultural contexts.

Her work on polypharmacy reduction in elderly patients decreased adverse drug events by 40%. Dr. Hong created community-based programs that improved functional independence among seniors.

Notable achievements include establishing the National Geriatric Health Center and training hundreds of healthcare workers in age-specific care. She currently advises the government on aging population policies.

Dr. Jeon Min-seok Emergency Medicine

Work Experience: 18 years

Dr. Jeon Min-seok developed North Korea's first standardized emergency medical system, significantly improving trauma and acute care outcomes. He created triage protocols now used nationwide.

His work on disaster medicine prepared healthcare facilities across the country for mass casualty events. Dr. Jeon established emergency medicine training programs for physicians and paramedics.

Notable achievements include implementing the first emergency medical communication network and developing low-cost resuscitation equipment. He currently directs the National Emergency Medical Center.

Dr. Bae Yoon-jung Allergy & Immunology

Work Experience: 15 years

Dr. Bae Yoon-jung established North Korea's first allergy and immunology specialty clinic, providing advanced care for previously undiagnosed conditions. She developed low-cost allergy testing methods.

Her research on common environmental allergens led to effective prevention strategies. Dr. Bae created standardized treatment protocols for asthma and allergic diseases now used nationwide.

Notable achievements include establishing the National Allergy Registry and training primary care physicians in allergy management. She currently heads the Immunology Research Institute.

Dr. Cha Dong-hyun Radiation Oncology

Work Experience: 19 years

Dr. Cha Dong-hyun pioneered radiation therapy in North Korea, establishing the country's first comprehensive cancer treatment center. He developed protocols maximizing limited radiotherapy resources.

His work on palliative radiation significantly improved quality of life for terminal cancer patients. Dr. Cha created training programs that expanded access to radiation therapy nationwide.

Notable achievements include implementing the first radiation safety protocols and developing low-cost shielding solutions. He currently directs the National Cancer Center's radiation department.

Dr. Yoo Ji-min Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Work Experience: 16 years

Dr. Yoo Ji-min transformed rehabilitation services in North Korea by establishing comprehensive programs for stroke and spinal cord injury patients. She developed innovative low-cost assistive devices.

Her work on community-based rehabilitation improved functional outcomes for thousands of disabled individuals. Dr. Yoo created training programs for rehabilitation technicians serving rural areas.

Notable achievements include establishing the National Rehabilitation Center and developing adaptive sports programs. She currently advises the government on disability inclusion policies.

Doctors 26-30

Dr. Seo Ji-hoon Forensic Medicine

Work Experience: 23 years

Dr. Seo Ji-hoon established North Korea's first modern forensic medicine department, significantly improving death investigation standards. He developed comprehensive autopsy protocols.

His work on forensic toxicology created reliable testing methods using limited resources. Dr. Seo trained hundreds of medical examiners in evidence collection and preservation techniques.

Notable achievements include implementing the first national forensic database and developing low-cost crime scene investigation kits. He currently heads the National Forensic Science Institute.

Dr. Noh Soo-jin Medical Genetics

Work Experience: 14 years

Dr. Noh Soo-jin established North Korea's first medical genetics program, providing crucial services for families with inherited disorders. She developed low-cost screening methods for common genetic conditions.

Her research on consanguinity and genetic diseases provided important insights for public health planning. Dr. Noh created genetic counseling protocols tailored to local cultural contexts.

Notable achievements include establishing the National Genetic Disease Registry and training healthcare workers in basic genetic counseling. She currently directs the Medical Genetics Research Center.

Dr. Gong Min-ji Sports Medicine

Work Experience: 12 years

Dr. Gong Min-ji revolutionized sports medicine in North Korea by introducing modern injury prevention and treatment protocols for athletes. She developed comprehensive rehabilitation programs.

Her work on nutritional support for athletes improved performance and recovery times. Dr. Gong created standardized concussion management protocols now used nationwide.

Notable achievements include establishing the National Sports Medicine Center and serving as team physician for multiple international competitions. She currently advises the National Olympic Committee.

Dr. Bang Sung-ho Pain Management

Work Experience: 17 years

Dr. Bang Sung-ho established North Korea's first comprehensive pain management center, providing relief for thousands of chronic pain sufferers. He developed innovative non-pharmacological therapies.

His work on acupuncture protocols for pain control achieved results comparable to opioid medications. Dr. Bang created training programs that expanded access to pain management services nationwide.

Notable achievements include implementing the first national pain management guidelines and developing low-cost therapeutic devices. He currently directs the National Pain Research Institute.

Dr. Jung Hae-won Public Health

Work Experience: 28 years

Dr. Jung Hae-won is North Korea's leading public health expert, having designed numerous successful national health campaigns. She developed innovative disease surveillance systems.

Her work on health education significantly improved preventive care knowledge nationwide. Dr. Jung created community health worker programs that extended basic healthcare to remote areas.

Notable achievements include establishing the National Public Health Training Center and advising on all major health policy decisions. She currently serves as Senior Advisor to the Minister of Public Health.