The Korean government has allowed universities to approve leaves of absence for some medical students who are refusing to attend classes in protest against the government’s policy to increase the number of medical school admissions. The Office of the President emphasized that this does not mean a blanket approval for collective leaves of absence. A senior official clarified that the government’s stance remains unchanged, and such collective leaves do not constitute a valid reason for absence.
The decision enables universities to use their discretion for approving leave requests based on personal reasons, provided students go through individual counseling and submit necessary documentation, including a pledge to return in the first semester of the following academic year. This decision was made in response to universities’ requests for flexibility in handling such cases.
It was mentioned that most universities allow a maximum leave of absence for two semesters. So, if students are granted leave now, they would be expected to return by the first semester of the next year. This decision helps universities and students resolve uncertainties about academic plans for the upcoming year.
Furthermore, the Office of the President noted that all universities agree on the need for students to return and normalize academic schedules by next year. For students taking leave during the 2024 academic year, universities will offer extracurricular programs and are preparing for the next year’s curriculum in advance.