South Korean Medical Professors to File Constitutional Petition against Quota Hike

Medical professors in South Korea are planning to challenge the government’s decision to increase medical school admissions, citing a violation of their basic rights. The Medical Professors Association of Korea is set to file a petition with the Constitutional Court ahead of the April 10 general elections to oppose the plan to raise the number of medical students by 2,000.

The increase in medical school admissions has led to a walkout by junior doctors since February 20, causing significant disruptions to the country’s medical service. The professors’ association previously appealed to the Seoul Administration Court to suspend the plan’s execution, but the case was dismissed without deliberation.

“The government’s decision to raise admissions by 2,000 violates the basic rights of professors, including their autonomy of education,” a lawyer of the group stated. With no resolution expected from lower courts, the association is taking the case to the Constitutional Court before the upcoming elections.

In addition to the constitutional appeal, the association plans to seek a court injunction before the government announces detailed plans for college entrance next year. Meanwhile, the government remains committed to medical reform, with Second Vice Health Minister Park Min-soo emphasizing the importance of flexibly achieving reform while upholding principles.

At a government response meeting following President Yoon Suk Yeol’s discussion with trainee doctors’ representatives, Park urged the doctors to end their walkout and engage in dialogue with the government. The situation continues to unfold as both sides stand firm on their positions regarding medical school admissions and reforms in South Korea.