The ongoing doctors’ strike in South Korea, started on February 20, 2024, continues to impact medical services across the nation.

The strike, primarily led by doctors and supported by the Korean Medical Association, stems from protests against the expansion of medical schools, which has led to a shortage of medical professionals in hospitals.

There are several reasons why doctors and the Korean Medical Association decided to go on strike.

One of the main causes of this strike is the implementation of the Korean government’s new policy.

The Korean government has announced plans to expand medical school quota in response to increased demand for medical services and the aging population.

As the Korean government failed to carry out this plan in 2020 due to COVID-19, the government is currently once again focusing on the implementation of this policy.

Additionally, the government proposed the establishment of public medical schools, including the reopening of closed medical schools such as Seonam University School of Medicine in Namwon, Jeollabuk-do.

Moreover, the Ministry of Health and Welfare suggested the first initiative for the “Health Insurance Medicine Coverage Project,” aiming to provide reimbursement for various medical conditions.

However, these initiatives have faced criticism from medical professionals.

The non-face-to-face medical treatment promotion plan, proposed by multiple ministries, has been reprimanded by many medical workers.

Medical workers argue that these policies overlook their concerns and fail to address the challenges they face in delivering quality care.

In reply to the government’s proposals, the Korean Medical Association stated that it is open to discussing all possibilities with the government at any time.

It also urged to acknowledge any shortcomings and make a decision that can earn the trust that the medical community can have.

Meanwhile, the perspectives of citizens on the issue of the doctor’s strike vary.

Some argue that the doctor’s strike is rational and can be justified as reasons for most medical workers to quit their jobs and participate in the strike and protests.

However, the dominant voice regarding the current status quo is that the doctor’s strike, which has lasted much longer than anticipated, is causing issues.

Some critics state that the doctors should not abandon their responsibilities, especially considering the impact on patients.

The debate surrounding the strike has also raised questions about income inequality within the medical profession.

John Rawls, who served as a professor at Harvard University from 1921 until 2022, theorized that it is the justice to redistribute the properties for the ones who earn high incomes with the help of their backgrounds as the government tries to resolve complaints of citizens on the current issue of doctor’s strike.

As the strike persists, tensions between medical professionals and the government continue to escalate.

This highlights the complex challenges facing South Korea’s healthcare system.

Jooyoon Park

Grade 9

Saint Johnsbury Academy Jeju