Kim Taek-woo, elected as the 43rd president of the Korean Medical Association (KMA) on January 8, expressed concerns over the current state of affairs in South Korea. After winning the election with 60.38% of the votes, he stated that the country is like a “runaway train” and emphasized the need for collective wisdom to address the situation. He called for the government to release a master plan for medical education by 2025, indicating that without it, planning for 2026 would be impossible.
Previously, the position was left vacant after former president Im Hyun-taek was impeached within six months due to various controversies. Kim will complete the remainder of Im’s term, which lasts until April 30, 2027.
In his inaugural speech, Kim mentioned the critical state of not only the healthcare system but also the political, economic, and social landscapes. He conveyed the urgency of the situation and insisted on a clear educational plan from the government.
Kim criticized the government for its rigid stance on health reforms, with over 55% of the public against the current changes. While he acknowledged that protests and strikes are not the ultimate solutions, he argued such actions are only a last resort when negotiations fail.
Regarding the Medical Reform Special Committee, Kim opined that the committee should be dissolved as the president, under whose authority it was established, is currently absent. He also criticized the lack of mutual respect in discussions about healthcare policies, including those concerning non-covered services and private health insurance, making consensus difficult.
Furthermore, Kim intends to actively involve interns and medical students, ensuring their voices are respected and incorporated into decision-making, building a collaborative environment for addressing these challenges.