Han Deok-su: "This Week's Last Golden Time... Will Create an Environment for Medical Students to Focus on Studying"

Prime Minister and Acting President Han Duck-soo urged medical students to return to their seats, saying on the 25th that "this week is the last golden time for academic return and normalization of education" amid the prolonged refusal of medical students to attend classes.

Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo is speaking at the Cabinet meeting held at the Government Seoul Office Building on the 25th. Photo by Yonhap News

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In his opening remarks at the Cabinet meeting held at the Government Seoul Office that morning, Acting President Han said, "Although medical students are gradually returning to classes, many are still away from the classrooms, which weighs heavily on my heart," adding, "It is truly regrettable when considering the future of each medical student, as well as the future of our citizens and patients."

Acting President Han stated, "Earlier, university presidents and medical school deans proposed adjusting the 2026 admission quotas on the premise that all medical students would return by the end of March to facilitate their return and normalize medical education, and after deep consideration, the government accepted this," emphasizing, "I hope medical students and their parents will listen to the reasonable persuasion of the presidents and deans."

He continued, "The government will devote all efforts to creating an environment where returning medical students can focus on their studies with peace of mind," explaining, "Medical students are talents who will protect the lives of both the current and future generations of the Republic of Korea. I believe and am prepared for all citizens to warmly welcome those who return."

Acting President Han emphasized the necessity of medical reform and pledged to promote it together with the medical community. He said, "The government has initiated medical reform for the sake of the people, patients, the medical community, and all of us," adding, "Because the shortage of essential medical personnel and infrastructure, the so-called 'emergency room rotation' phenomenon, and the neglect of regional medical care have accumulated crisis signals, we have reached a point where it can no longer be postponed."

He continued, "Although there were many shortcomings during the process, many citizens agree that medical reform is essential for our country to maintain a high-quality medical system in the future," and said, "This goal cannot be achieved by the government alone. The understanding and participation of the medical community members who have supported the excellent medical system, as well as the sympathy and support of the public, are essential."

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