12 Jun 2024 | 09:25 PM UTC
South Korea: Unionized medical practitioners and educators plan to stage multiple work stoppages through at least late June
Unionized medical workers and educators plan to stage work stoppages in South Korea through late June; medical service disruptions likely.
Unionized medical practitioners and educators plan to stage multiple work stoppages in South Korea through at least late June. The purpose of the planned strikes is to denounce the government's healthcare reform plans, including a push to greatly increase the number of students enrolling in medical schools. The following labor actions had been announced as of June 13:
June 17: Medical professors at no fewer than four hospitals affiliated with Seoul National University have warned that they would launch an indefinite strike from this date.
June 18: Medical professionals affiliated with the Korean Medical Association (KMA) plan to stage a one-day work stoppage across the country and a large rally on this date.
June 27: Medical professors at no fewer than three hospitals affiliated with Severance Hospital have indicated that they would stage an indefinite strike from this date; critical services, including emergency room services and treatment of seriously ill patients, will reportedly not be impacted by the labor action.
In total, tens of thousands of medical practitioners and educators will likely participate in the work stoppages, causing major disruptions to medical services and medical school classes. Strike participation rates will almost certainly vary by organizing entity, date, and location affected; the KMA's June 18 strike will probably be the largest of the labor actions in June. Strike organizers may cancel the planned work stoppages if they perceive that the government will accede to their demands. Related demonstrations are likely, especially on June 18. Potential gathering sites for rallies include healthcare facilities, college campuses, government buildings, public squares, and major thoroughfares. Localized transport disruptions will likely affect areas that are subject to protest activity. Authorities will probably monitor any such gatherings that materialize. Although unlikely, isolated scuffles between demonstrators and police cannot be ruled out.
Confirm medical appointments in advance and prepare for medical service disruptions during the strike periods. As a precaution, avoid any demonstrations that materialize. If operating in an area that is subject to protest activity, depart the vicinity at the first sign of any security disturbance. Plan accordingly for localized transport disruptions near demonstration sites. Heed all official advisories.
