"Sorry, Seniors" Medical School Graduation Ceremony Filled with Apologies and Requests Instead of Congratulations

Graduation Ceremony of Chonnam National University and Korea University Medical Schools on the 23rd
Hippocratic Oath Amid a Tense Atmosphere

On the 23rd, the fourth day since the residents opposing the increase in medical school admissions began collective action by leaving hospitals, Chonnam National University and Korea University held their medical school graduation ceremonies. It was a time filled with apologies and requests directed at the new doctors.

Medical school graduates taking the Hippocratic Oath
[Photo by Yonhap News]

At the degree conferment ceremony of Chonnam National University College of Medicine, which produced 122 graduates, Dean Jung Young-do began his congratulatory speech by saying, "I apologize to the graduates and their parents." This was an apology for the situation where senior doctors failed to proactively address essential medical care, regional healthcare, and the number of doctors, causing the new doctors to take their first steps with a heavy heart. He also repeatedly apologized for failing to gain the trust of the public.

Jeong Shin, director of Chonnam National University Hospital, also expressed regret, saying, "As the dean mentioned, when discussions about the shortage of essential medical care began several years ago, the medical community should have promptly presented reasonable analyses and solutions proactively."

Among the 101 residents who graduated from the medical school this time and were scheduled to join Chonnam National University Hospital as interns, about 85%, or 86 people, gave up their appointments.

A parent is adjusting a graduate's mortarboard on the Korea University campus.
[Photo by Yonhap News]

At the 82nd degree conferment ceremony of Korea University College of Medicine, Yoon Eul-sik, vice president of medical affairs and director of the medical center, addressed 112 graduates, saying, "Although this is a time of unprecedented chaotic upheaval, the essence of being a doctor who protects the value of life does not change," and urged, "I hope you do not lose the initial intention of applying to medical school to help those who are sick and in need."

Jang Il-tae, president of the Korea University College of Medicine Alumni Association, stated, "Conflicts are escalating like a chicken game, and the general public sees us as a group caught up in populism and collective selfishness. We have always endured harsh scrutiny while protecting Korea in a difficult medical environment," and expressed hope, saying, "I believe that through dialogue, cooperation, and countless efforts, a conclusion that the public wants and we can accept will be reached."

Both Chonnam National University and Korea University, in a solemn atmosphere, took the Hippocratic Oath, pledging to practice medicine with conscience and dignity, putting patients' health and lives first.

According to the government, as of the 22nd, a total of about 8,900 residents from the top 100 hospitals in terms of resident numbers submitted resignation letters, and among them, about 7,800 left their workplaces.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare is pressuring doctors who have left their workplaces to return by mentioning suspension or cancellation of medical licenses. Violating the order to commence work may result in suspension of license qualification under Article 66 of the Medical Service Act or imprisonment for up to three years or a fine of up to 30 million won under Article 88.

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