South Korea: Unionized doctors likely to continue indefinite strike nationwide through at least mid-May /update 5

Doctors affiliated with the Korean Medical Association will likely continue an indefinite strike across South Korea through at least mid-May. The action, which began on Feb. 20, was initiated by junior doctors to denounce the government's decision to significantly increase medical school enrollment quotas. Around 12,000 junior doctors are participating in the work stoppage, causing disruptions to healthcare services including canceled surgeries, postponed medical appointments, and longer wait times at hospitals nationwide. The strike has prompted major hospitals, including Ansan Medical Center and Seoul National University Hospital, to reduce outpatient services and operation capacities. Additionally, Seoul National University Hospital will be suspending all medical services April 30. The action is expected to be protracted as President Yoon Suk-Yeol's administration has refused to back down on the medical education reform and threatened to suspend the medical licenses of striking doctors.

Striking workers are likely to hold additional demonstrations over the coming weeks outside hospitals, union offices, and government buildings, mainly in and around Seoul. Related gatherings have occurred outside Yongsan Presidential Office, National Assembly, and offices of the Democratic Party of Korea. Previous large-scale rallies organized by KMA have attracted tens of thousands of participants in Seoul.

Heightened security measures are likely around related protests. Police may deploy to ensure that participants do not cause traffic congestion beyond the protest site. Authorities may erect security barricades around government buildings. Localized transport disruptions could occur near any protest venue, especially if demonstrators block roadways. While any rallies will likely be peaceful, skirmishes between demonstrators and security personnel remain possible.