Lee Guk-jong’s Vision: Transforming Military Healthcare with Drones 🚁

It’s been just over a year since Professor Lee Guk-jong, a former navy medic, assumed the role of director at the Armed Forces Daejeon Hospital. Driven by a deep affection for the military, he’s been brimming with ideas to revolutionize the military’s medical system. Here’s a glimpse into his vision.

Overcoming Obstacles: From Helipad to Drone License 🚧

One of Lee’s first initiatives was to implement a ‘Doctor Helicopter’ service. However, the designated landing area was 700 meters away from the hospital. Lee proposed using the parking lot in front of the hospital, but faced numerous restrictions. “I received dozens of notices saying ‘restricted’ just for painting an ‘H’ on the parking lot,” he explained. “It took over a year to remove eight trees and four utility poles.” Despite the challenges and complaints, Lee persevered, prioritizing the lives of critically ill soldiers.

Recognizing the limitations of traditional helicopters, especially at night or in poor weather, Lee obtained a drone pilot’s license. He envisions a future where unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can transport samples, medical supplies, and even patients.

Securing Funding: A Shift from ‘Ministry of Health and Welfare’ to ‘Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport’ 💰

Lee’s vision extends to creating a joint civilian-military medical system where drones transport samples from remote units to nearby medical facilities. He secured funding (₩500 million) from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport’s ‘Drone Demonstration City Project’ after facing difficulties with the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Starting next month, Lee plans to conduct training exercises on Baengnyeong Island, transporting samples and medical supplies between Baengnyeong, Daecheong, and Socheong Islands.

Challenges and Solutions: Overcoming Distance Limitations 🚀

One of the biggest hurdles is the drone’s flight range. To travel between Baengnyeong and Socheong Islands requires a range of at least 50km. Lee also noted that Udo Island, with 100 soldiers, lacks a military doctor. “The nearest medical support is on Yeonpyeong Island,” he stated, emphasizing the need for longer-range drones. To address this, Lee is considering hydrogen fuel cell models to increase the drone’s range.

Lee requires drones with a range of over 200km and a flight time of at least 40 minutes. Initial tests with potential vendors were disappointing. “I told them to test the drones by flying them around the parade ground at least 100 times before we talked,” Lee recounted. “It was shocking. Out of 6,000 companies, only two actually brought drones that met the requirements.”

The Broader Implications: Beyond Medical Transport 🛡️

Lee highlighted the broader implications of drone technology for the military. These drones could also be equipped with bombs or high-performance cameras, augmenting the military’s capabilities. Developing high-performance drones can reduce tensions with neighboring countries.

Above all, Lee stresses that saving soldiers’ lives is the top priority. He hopes that these technological advancements will lay the foundation for further innovation in military healthcare.

Note: ₩ (Korean Won) is the currency used in South Korea.