In brief
Medical students in South Korea have officially ended a prolonged 17-month boycott of classes, as announced by the Korean Medical Association. The protest initially arose due to government plans to increase medical school admissions, which the students claimed could negatively impact the quality of their education. Although no specific timeline for their return has been provided, the association has called for the government to restore the academic calendar and enhance training conditions.
Prime Minister Kim Min-Seok expressed his approval over the students’ decision, labeling it a "significant advancement." In a Facebook statement, he emphasized the need for a collaborative approach among the medical community, Congress, and the government to address ongoing challenges. The Korean Medical Association, in a joint statement with the parliament's education committee, affirmed their trust in the government as they prepare to resume their studies in a bid to normalize medical education and healthcare.In response to the government’s proposal to increase the yearly admission of medical students from about 3,000 to approximately 5,000—citing a growing demand for healthcare professionals—the plans were ultimately shelved in March 2025. Reportedly, around 8,305 students may face academic retention, necessitating them to repeat the year, according to the education ministry.
