Jeonnam Governor Kim Young-rok Appeals for Restraint in Public Medical Sector's Collective Strike

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Yoon Jamin] Kim Young-rok, Governor of Jeonnam Province, appealed for restraint from collective medical strikes by public healthcare workers in response to the Korean Medical Association's announcement of a collective strike opposing the government's expansion of medical school quotas, establishment of public medical schools, coverage of herbal medicine, and promotion of telemedicine.

In an appeal on the 7th, Governor Kim began by saying, "I cannot help but feel heartbroken when I think of the residents who will suffer due to medical service gaps."

He continued, "The reason our country could become a global model in facing the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic was all because of the medical staff," and added, "All residents hold deep respect and gratitude for the medical professionals who have shown sacrifice and dedication to overcome this crisis."

He then stated, "However, the crisis is not over," noting, "There are still double-digit daily COVID-19 cases, and incidents and accidents continue due to the heavy rains and floods sweeping across the Korean Peninsula."

Furthermore, he expressed concern, saying, "Especially in Jeonnam, where there are many islands and mountainous remote areas, the highest proportion of elderly population nationwide, and a fragile public healthcare infrastructure, even a brief medical service gap could lead to significant damage," and requested, "While there may be differences in opinion regarding government policies, collective actions that could threaten the health and lives of residents must be refrained from."

He also emphasized, "The health and lives of residents are the most important priority above all else, and solutions for the medical sector to develop further must be found through dialogue and compromise," and stressed, "Jeonnam Province will also spare no effort to ensure that the difficulties faced by medical professionals are reflected in government policies."

Finally, he appealed, "The 2 million residents need you," and earnestly requested once again, "We sincerely ask for the dedication of the medical professionals who have protected the safety and health of our residents."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.