In February, the South Korean government announced plans to increase the number of medical students from 3,058 to 5,058 starting in the 2025 academic year. The move aimed to address a longstanding shortage of doctors by adding approximately 10,000 physicians by 2035.
However, the policy has sparked widespread protests within the medical community. Since February 19, nearly 9,000 doctors have resigned, and more than 10,000 medical students have applied for suspension. Hospitals across the country are facing staff shortages, leading to operational difficulties and concerns over patient care.
On February 23, the government responded by raising the medical system’s crisis level to its highest status, “serious.” It also approved all hospitals to conduct online outpatient services until the end of the doctors’ collective action.
Amid the turmoil, CGTN’s correspondent spoke with protesting doctors to understand their perspectives. Kim Sung-geun, a 53-year-old medical school professor, expressed deep concerns about the government’s approach. “South Korea’s current medical problems cannot be solved by simply expanding the enrollment of medical students,” he said. “The government should reconsider and correct its wrong policies.”
Doctors argue that increasing the number of medical graduates without improving working conditions and addressing systemic issues will not resolve the healthcare crisis. Many emphasize the need for better distribution of medical professionals and investment in regional healthcare facilities.
The strike has ignited a national debate on how to effectively reform South Korea’s healthcare system. As both sides grapple with finding a solution, patients and healthcare providers alike are feeling the impact of the ongoing dispute.
The government faces the challenge of balancing the urgent need for more doctors with the concerns of medical professionals who are calling for comprehensive policy reform. The outcome of this standoff will have lasting implications for the future of healthcare in South Korea.
Reference(s):
We Talk: What does a ROK doctor feel about the recent doctors' strike?
cgtn.com
