Korean Healthcare Crisis: Patients Feeling ‘Hostage’ as Doctors Strike for Better Working Conditions

The ongoing crisis in the Korean healthcare system has left many patients feeling like they are being held hostage. The resignation of two pediatricians at Seoul National University (SNU) Hospital has caused concerns for one mother, Kim, who is worried about the quality of care her daughter with kidney disease is receiving. As a result, she may have to start the testing process over if they transfer hospitals and face additional fees.

The recent strike by resident and intern doctors has added to the already precarious situation, as medical professors and senior doctors plan to quit or reduce their working hours starting in May. This decision has led to a shortage of medical professionals and impacted patient care, causing treatment delays.

Thousands of patient families are concerned about the quality and availability of medical services, as hospitals continue to treat emergency and critical condition patients only. The strike was initiated in protest of government plans to increase medical student enrollment quotas, which doctors believe will negatively impact the quality of care and raise patient costs.

Despite efforts by the government to reduce enrollment quotas, striking doctors continue to push for better working conditions and income stability. The crisis highlights the deep-rooted issues within the Korean healthcare system, where both medical professionals and patients face challenges.