South Korea: Medical staff at Seoul National University Hospital and Daegu's Kyungpook National University Hospital to strike from Oct. 11 /update 1

Event

Unionized medical staff plan to stage indefinite strikes at the Seoul National University Hospital and Daegu's Kyungpook National University Hospital from Oct. 11. Workers have various demands, including hiring additional staff and better working conditions. Workers affiliated with the Busan Subway Union and Health Insurance Workers' Union have canceled and postponed plans to strike the same day. Organizers may withdraw from or renew strike plans at short notice.

Although South Korean law requires workers to maintain essential public services, affected hospitals may experience a reduction in available services and cancellations of routine appointments. Increased demand could also affect services at other hospitals in Seoul and Daegu. Disruptions could persist even after the strikes end as facilities deal with patient backlog.

Related protests are possible in the affected cities. In addition to the impacted hospitals, staff may gather at the National Assembly and Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul. A heightened security presence is probable around any demonstrations that materialize. Minor scuffles between police and protestors are possible. Localized ground transport disruptions may occur if workers march on or block nearby streets.

Advice

Plan accordingly for medical services disruptions and confirm medical appointments. If possible, contact healthcare facilities in advance for information about wait times, which could vary among hospitals and clinics. Avoid all possible gatherings as a precaution and to minimize travel delays. Allow additional time for journeys in protest-affected areas. Heed all official transport and security advisories.