Government: "Medical Licensing Exam to Proceed as Usual... Scheduled for September 2"

"For the Trust of Test Preparation Candidates"

The government announced on the 3rd that it will conduct the practical exam for this year's medical licensing examination (Kuksi) at the same time as in previous years. This is interpreted as drawing a line against rumors of postponement, quarterly, or occasional administration of the national exam.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

On the 3rd, Cho Kyu-hong, Minister of Health and Welfare, said at the 'Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters for the Medical Collective Action' meeting held at the Government Complex Sejong, "The government plans to announce the practical exam schedule for this year's Kuksi today and implement it starting September 2."

According to the government, the exam schedule must be announced at least 90 days before the exam date in accordance with Article 4 of the Enforcement Decree of the Medical Service Act.

Minister Cho explained, "Since there are examinees currently preparing for the exam, we intend to hold the exam at the same time as in previous years to protect their trust."

He added, "Currently, many medical students are refusing classes, raising concerns that they may not be able to obtain their medical licenses at the normal time," and urged, "Medical students, please return to classes promptly so that you can prepare for your future as doctors."

He also urged resident doctors who have not returned, saying, "Patients and colleagues are anxiously waiting," calling for their swift return.

Minister Cho said, "As the time away from medical practice lengthens, I believe there is great anxiety about completing training and the future," and added, "The government will minimize disadvantages for returning residents and ensure that they receive proper training in better environments."

On the same day, Minister Cho criticized doctors who had announced a total strike vote, saying, "Holding a collective suspension of work vote and filing lawsuits against university presidents will only provoke endless conflict and confrontation," and stressed, "We must no longer cause hardship and pain to the public."

He said, "I believe the government is also responsible for not having prepared proper measures for essential medical care and regional healthcare, which have long been problematic and are now on the brink of collapse," and emphasized, "Even now, the medical community must join forces with the government to save essential and regional medical care so that the public can feel reassured."

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