Since February 19, nearly 9,000 doctors in the Republic of Korea (ROK) have resigned, and over 10,000 medical students have suspended their studies. This mass exodus has left hospitals scrambling with staff shortages and operational challenges.
In response, the ROK government announced an increase in medical student enrollment from 3,058 to 5,058 starting the 2025 academic year, aiming to add about 10,000 doctors by 2035. However, this measure has not quelled the unrest.
On February 23, the government elevated the medical system's crisis level to "serious" and authorized hospitals to conduct online outpatient services until the doctors' strike concludes.
CGTN's reporter spoke with protesting doctors on the streets of ROK to understand their frustrations. Kim Sung-geun, a 53-year-old medical school professor, expressed skepticism about the government's approach, stating, \"South Korea's current medical problems cannot be solved by simply expanding the enrollment of medical students. The government needs to reconsider and correct its policies.\"
The strike highlights deeper issues within ROK's healthcare system, prompting calls for comprehensive reforms beyond increasing the number of medical professionals.
Reference(s):
We Talk: What does a ROK doctor feel about the recent doctors' strike?
cgtn.com
