South Korea is currently facing a significant doctors' strike as nearly 10,000 junior doctors protest the government’s recent decision to increase medical school admissions. In February, the South Korean government announced plans to raise the number of medical school seats from 3,058 to 5,058 starting in the 2025 academic year. This move aims to address the ongoing shortage of doctors and the challenges posed by an aging society.
However, the announcement was met with strong opposition from medical practitioners and trainees. By February 27, a staggering 9,937 junior doctors had resigned and walked off the job at 99 general hospitals in protest. The strike has led to significant understaffing in many hospitals, causing operational difficulties and impacting patient care.
Residents of South Korea have shared mixed feelings about the strike. One resident expressed disappointment, stating, \"I feel a bit disappointed. I wish doctors could cooperate more with government policies.\" The situation highlights the delicate balance between government initiatives to bolster the healthcare system and the concerns of medical professionals who feel overwhelmed by the rapid expansion.
As the strike continues, the South Korean government faces the challenge of addressing the concerns of its medical workforce while striving to ensure adequate healthcare coverage for its population.
Reference(s):
We Talk: How do South Koreans feel about the recent doctors' strike?
cgtn.com