More than 1,000 junior doctors in South Korea initiated a strike on Tuesday in protest to the government’s plans to introduce additional trained physicians into the healthcare system, aiming to address the country’s low doctor-to-patient ratio.

South Korea has one of the lowest doctor-to-patient ratios among major economies, prompting the government to increase medical school placements.

However, doctors are concerned about heightened competition and potential income reduction.

“We are deeply disappointed in the situation where trainee doctors are refusing to work,” said the Second Vice Health Minister Park Min-soo.

South Korea’s healthcare system is highly privatized, with over 90% of hospitals being private entities. The doctors in the country are among the best-paid globally, with average specialist salaries at public hospitals reaching nearly $200,000 a year.

The strike involves nearly 6,500 interns and residents, approximately half of the junior doctor workforce. Of this group, about 1,600 doctors did not report to work.

The strike organizers, the Korean Medical Association and Korea Interns and Residents Association, urged members to stop work entirely.

“We earnestly ask the doctors to withdraw their decision to resign en masse,” said Minister Park, who condemned the strike action by doctors.

The strike has led to postponed surgeries, patient discharges, and transfers to other hospitals. Junior doctors form a crucial part of emergency ward staff, and the impact is significant at major hospitals in Seoul.

The government, led by President Yoon Suk-yeol, has ordered doctors to return to work, condemning the strike for “taking people’s lives and health hostage.”

Legal actions, including the revocation of practicing licenses, could be taken against striking doctors, according to the government.

South Korea has been grappling with physician shortages, particularly in remote areas and specific specialties. The proposed increase in medical school spots, amounting to a 65% rise, aims to address a projected shortfall of 15,000 doctors by 2035.

However, the doctor groups argue that such an increase would strain resources available under the national health insurance scheme.

The strike’s full impact remains unclear, but hospitals have implemented contingency plans, and officials warn of potential gaps in healthcare services.