[6.3 Election] Kim San, Muan County Chief Candidate: "Opposes Dual-Track Medical School at Suncheon National University"

"Undermining Regional Consensus, a Single Medical School Must Be Pursued"

Kim San, a preliminary candidate for the Democratic Party of Korea, has strongly criticized the dual-track medical school proposal put forth by Suncheon National University.

Kim San, preliminary candidate for head of Muan County. Photo provided by the candidate's campaign.

In a press release on April 21, Kim stated, "The dual-track educational system and establishment of region-specific hospitals advocated by Suncheon National University undermine the justification for establishing a national medical school in Jeonnam. This is a direct violation of the previous agreement."

He pointed out, "By disregarding the spirit of regional consensus painstakingly reached by Jeonnam Province and the two universities, and instead pursuing an independent course of action, they are betraying the hopes of the residents. Such conduct is irresponsible."

He further argued, "Such moves could once again ignite regional conflict. If medical resources are dispersed, it will not help improve the healthcare situation in the southwestern region."

Kim reaffirmed his stance that a single medical school initiative is necessary to address the healthcare disparity in the southwestern region. He emphasized, "The establishment of a single medical school through a fair and objective public selection process must come first. A dispersed structure could actually reduce both competitiveness and effectiveness."

He added, "Rather than creating confusion in government decision-making with baseless demands, the approach should be within the framework of the originally agreed-upon win-win strategy."

Kim declared, "Regardless of political calculations or interests, the region must maintain unity under the overarching principle of attracting a medical school to the southwest. I will focus all my efforts on achieving this."

Meanwhile, as discussions surrounding the establishment of a national medical school in Jeonnam continue, conflicts are expected to persist due to differing positions between universities and the intertwining of regional interests.

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