South Korea: Healthcare workers to hold nationwide partial strike May 3 and 11, general strike May 17

Event

Healthcare workers from various organizations, including Korea Medical Association (KMA) and Korean Licensed Practical Nurses Association (KLPNA), plan to hold a partial strike on May 3 and 11 and a general strike on May 17. The action is to oppose the Nursing Act legislation, which they claim unfairly privileges nurses. Organizers have also called for a rally in front of the National Assembly in Seoul 17:30 May 3. Dozens to hundreds of people could participate in the demonstration.

Some medical service disruptions are possible at healthcare centers nationwide during the strike as moderate participation is likely. While the associations have over 4 million members combined, medical workers will only partially join the strike for certain periods of the day May 3 and 11. However, larger disruptions to medical services are expected during the general strike May 17.

Striking workers may hold additional demonstrations outside hospitals, union offices, or government buildings, mainly in and around Seoul. Heightened security is likely, including the deployment of additional personnel, at gathering sites. Localized transport and business disruptions will likely occur near any protest venue. While any rallies will likely be peaceful, skirmishes between demonstrators and security personnel remain possible.

Advice

Confirm medical appointments May 3, 11, and 17 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 protests as a precaution. Plan for possible localized transport disruptions near rally sites.