Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, acting on behalf of the president, urged medical students who are on collective leave to "not hesitate any longer and return to the classroom."
The Prime Minister's Office stated that Prime Minister Han sent a letter titled "A letter to medical school students" to 40 medical colleges nationwide through the Ministry of Education.
Acting Prime Minister Han wrote, "Thinking about how much you have been concerned about your career path, I feel sorry and regretful as an acting president leading the government, as well as an adult who has lived in this world before you." He added, "I send a round of applause to those students who bravely decide to return, and for those who are still hesitant about returning, please do not hesitate and come back to the classroom."
"Do not forget the future patients waiting for you," he emphasized, "and the government will focus on supporting you to fully concentrate on your studies."
The fact that Acting Prime Minister Han unusually sent a letter to medical students is due to many who are still not returning or have yet to decide, protesting against the government's increase in the number of medical school admissions.
As of the 27th, following Seoul National University's decision to effectively have all students return through its own survey, Yonsei University and Korea University are also accepting additional registrations through internal consultations, with the registration rate for major medical schools expected to rise to about 70-80%. However, it is reported that some medical schools centered around strong student councils have yet to decide on their return.