31 Aug 2021 | 07:15 AM UTC
South Korea: Unionized healthcare workers plan to strike nationwide Sept. 2
Unionized healthcare workers to strike across South Korea Sept. 2. Medical service disruptions likely; associated protests possible.
Event
The Korean Health and Medical Workers' Union plans to strike nationwide Sept. 2 to demand the government improve working conditions, including increasing the number of public hospitals and healthcare workers. Organizers say employees at emergency and intensive care units will not be participating in the action.
Medical service disruptions are likely at facilities nationwide during the strike. Workers may hold associated demonstrations outside hospitals or government buildings. Authorities will probably heighten security, including deploying additional personnel, at any gathering sites. Localized transport and business disruptions may occur near any protest venue. While any rallies will likely be peaceful, clashes between demonstrators and security personnel remain possible. Officials may disperse any action that they deem to violate COVID-19 protocols.
Advice
Confirm medical appointments Sept. 2 as a precaution. Plan for medical service delays. If possible, contact healthcare facilities in advance for information about wait times, which could vary among hospitals and clinics. Avoid any protests as a precaution. Plan for possible localized transport disruptions nearby any rally sites.
