KMA Refers Professor Involved in 'Resident Soju Bottle Assault' to Central Ethics Committee

The Korean Medical Association will refer the case of a professor at Jeonbuk National University Hospital, who was handed over to the prosecution for assaulting a resident doctor with a soju bottle during a company dinner, to the Central Ethics Committee and initiate disciplinary procedures.

On the 23rd, the association announced, "We conducted a written resolution of the Standing Board of Directors the previous day and decided to refer the case to the Central Ethics Committee."

Exterior view of the Korean Medical Association building in Ichon-dong.
[Photo by Korean Medical Association]

Professor A at Jeonbuk National University Hospital is accused of striking a resident doctor's head with a soju bottle during a department dinner in September last year. The police analyzed the restaurant's closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage, confirmed Professor A's criminal act, and transferred the case to the prosecution. Professor A was disciplined with removal from concurrent positions and a one-month suspension by Jeonbuk National University, and a six-month suspension from duties by the hospital, and is reportedly recently reinstated.

The association emphasized, "In the current situation where voices for improving the treatment of resident doctors, who are doing their best to protect patients' lives and health despite harsh conditions, are growing louder, we will strongly respond to unethical acts like this incident."

The association also stated, "Due to illegal and unethical acts by some members, the dignity of the vast majority of good members is being damaged, and distorted social perceptions of medical licenses are being fostered, resulting in repeated unjust legislative pressures. We will firmly respond to violations of medical-related laws and medical ethics that damage the dignity of the entire medical community and impose strict sanctions, thereby publicly recognizing the medical community's high ethical standards and autonomous license management capabilities, and protecting the dignity of all members."

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