South Korea Modifies Medical School Admission Plans Amid Doctors' Strike
In response to a prolonged doctors' strike, the South Korean government agrees to a gradual increase in medical school admissions, aiming to address healthcare service gaps.
- South Korea's government will slow its plan to increase medical school admissions following a prolonged strike by doctors.
- The strike, involving over 90% of the country's medical interns and residents, began in late February due to concerns over educational quality and service standards.
- A compromise proposal, reducing the planned increase in admissions by up to 50%, was adopted after negotiations with university presidents.
- This adjustment comes amid a healthcare system strain and a recent legislative election defeat for the ruling party.
- Officials emphasize the need for more doctors to manage the aging population and healthcare demands, setting a new target for full admission increases by 2026.