KMA "Apologize to the Public for Collective Action, Continue Discussions with Government" (Update)

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Seo So-jung] The Korean Medical Association issued a statement apologizing to the public on the 26th, the first day of their general strike, for initiating collective action. The medical community stated that the strike is to urge the government to make changes and that they are open to discussing all possibilities with the government at any time.

In the statement on the 26th, the KMA said, "The medical community reluctantly resorted to collective action because the strike is the only means to protest the government's lack of communication, but we established the principle that it must never threaten or harm the public and patients," adding, "We have done our best to maintain essential medical functions such as childbirth and emergency rooms, as well as COVID-19 support, regardless of the strike."

It continued, "We met with the Prime Minister and the Minister of Health and Welfare to fully explain the medical community's position and had candid discussions. Based on mutual understanding to resolve the situation, we also engaged sincerely and intensely in practical negotiations with the Ministry of Health and Welfare," and said, "Nevertheless, we sincerely apologize to the public for having to commence the planned three-day collective action starting today due to the failure to reach an agreement between the medical community and the government."

The KMA emphasized, "The medical community's collective action is precisely to urge the government to change," and stated, "The medical community will always keep all possibilities open and discuss them with the government."

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