South Korea: Medical professionals' strikes and related demonstrations likely to continue nationwide through at least mid-July /update 1

Medical professionals' strikes and related demonstrations will likely continue in South Korea through at least mid-July. In recent weeks, unionized medical practitioners and educators have staged sporadic work stoppages to denounce the government's healthcare reform plans, including a push to greatly increase the number of students enrolling in medical schools. Consequent medical service disruptions have occurred at various healthcare facilities across the country. On July 4, activists affiliated with dozens of patients' organizations will rally in front of the Bosingak Pavilion in Seoul to denounce the work stoppages; protest organizers have estimated that at least 1,000 people will participate in the demonstration. Additionally, medical professors at Korea University plan to stage an indefinite strike from July 12.

In total, 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. Strike organizers may cancel the labor actions if they perceive that the government will accede to their demands. Potential gathering sites for related rallies include healthcare facilities, university 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.