South Korea: Disruptions to medical services nationwide will likely persist through at least early March as doctors stage indefinite strike /update 1

Widespread disruptions to medical services, including emergency care and surgical procedures, will likely persist nationwide through at least early March. The disruptions began after doctors announced plans to strike indefinitely from Feb. 20; more than 8,800 junior doctors have joined the work stoppage. The purpose of the action is to protest the increase of the medical school enrollment quota. As of Feb. 23, the government raised its four-scale public health alert to the highest level of "serious" and announced plans to extend the operating hours of all public medical institutions. Authorities will also open emergency rooms in at least 12 military hospitals nationwide. Striking workers are likely to continue the action until officials agree to their demands. Organizers may withdraw the strike at short notice if negotiations with authorities are successful.

The Korean Medical Association has planned large-scale rallies in Seoul Feb. 25 and March 3, although organizers have not announced specific rally sites. Peaceful small-scale protests have also occurred, including a protest by approximately 300 doctors outside Yongsan Presidential Office in Seoul. Demonstrations may also occur outside regional hospitals, union offices, and/or government buildings, including the National Assembly and offices of the opposition Democratic Party of Korea, mainly in and around Seoul. Up to several hundred doctors could attend each gathering. Localized transport and business disruptions could occur near any protest venue. While rallies will likely be peaceful, skirmishes between demonstrators and security personnel remain possible.