Overview

• Hundreds of South Korean trainee doctors have resigned in protest against the government's plan to increase medical school admissions by 65% starting from 2025, aiming to address the country's doctor shortage.
• The government has issued treatment maintenance orders to prevent work stoppages and is considering using military medics to cope with shortfalls.
• Doctors argue that the plan ignores the real issues of harsh working conditions and low wages, and could lead to an oversupply of doctors, reducing the quality of healthcare.
• Public opinion is largely in favor of the government's plan, with a recent poll showing over 75% support, despite doctors' concerns of it leading to a 'Cuban-style socialist medical system'.
• The mass resignations have caused delays in surgeries and other treatments, with hospitals attempting to reschedule and the government deploying emergency measures.