South Korea's president has taken a firm stance against the ongoing walkouts by junior doctors, labeling them as 'illegal collective action' that poses a threat to public health and the country's governance. The government has moved to suspend the licenses of approximately 9,000 medical interns and residents who have been participating in the strikes, impacting the ability of hospitals to deliver care.
The doctors-in-training have been on strike for over two weeks in protest of the government's plan to increase the intake of medical students in the coming years. While officials argue that the enrollment expansion is necessary to address the aging population, the doctors contend that such a rapid influx of students would compromise the quality of medical services in South Korea.
President Yoon Suk Yeol emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the doctors' actions undermine the principles of liberalism and constitutionalism and infringe upon the people's right to life. The government had set a deadline for the doctors to return to work, warning of potential indictments and license suspensions for non-compliance.
According to South Korea's medical law, doctors who persist in their strike could face imprisonment, fines, and suspension of their medical licenses. The Health Ministry has initiated steps to suspend the licenses of the striking doctors, with a focus on strike leaders rather than the entire group.
The strike has led to the cancellation of surgeries and treatments in hospitals, affecting the medical service in the country. While public opinion largely opposes the doctors' actions, President Yoon's approval ratings have risen due to his support for the enrollment plan.
The Korean Medical Association has expressed solidarity with the striking junior doctors but has not yet decided on participating in the walkouts. The government's plan to increase medical student intake aims to address the low doctor-to-population ratio in South Korea, but critics argue that it may not alleviate shortages in rural areas and low-paying specialties.
The striking doctors have raised concerns about their working conditions, including long hours and low wages, despite post-residency doctors being well-compensated in the country. The situation remains tense as the government and doctors continue to be at odds over the enrollment plan and the ongoing strikes.
