South Korea: Unionized doctors likely to continue indefinite nationwide strike, related protests through at least early June /update 7

The ongoing doctors' strike, protests, and related medical service disruptions are likely to continue across South Korea through at least early June. Unionized doctors commenced the indefinite action in mid-February to denounce the government's decision to increase medical school enrollment quotas. The work stoppage has caused various healthcare service disruptions, including canceled surgeries, delayed medical appointments, and longer wait times at affected facilities nationwide. The action is likely to be protracted as President Yoon Suk-Yeol's administration has maintained its stance on reform without showing signs of compromise and has mentioned the possibility of suspending the medical licenses of strike participants.

On May 29-30, activists will reportedly hold nationwide rallies at the following locations:

May 29

• Chuncheon: Gangwon Provincial Office at 20:00

May 30

• Busan: Gunamro Culture Square at 20:30

• Chuncheon: Gangwon Provincial Office at 20:00

• Daegu: Dongseong Street at 19:30

• Daejeon: Daejeon City Hall at 20:00

• Gwangju: National Asia Culture Center at 21:00

• Jeonju: Jeonbuk State Office at 20:30

• Seoul: Daehanmun Gate at 21:00

Additional demonstrations of varying types are highly likely over the coming weeks. Potential gathering sites include healthcare facilities, union offices, government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares. While participation will vary by locale, larger gatherings have drawn tens of thousands of attendees. Authorities will probably monitor any such gatherings and could implement enhanced restrictions, including barricades around government buildings, Isolated minor scuffles between police and activists cannot be ruled out. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are likely.