With the number of medical school admissions for the 2026 academic year restored to the pre-increase level of 3,058, the heads of medical education organizations noted that students must "participate in classes and act responsibly."
Lee Jong-tae, chairman of the Korean Association of Medical Colleges and Medical Graduate Schools (KAMC), said during a "2026 Academic Year Medical School Admissions Adjustment Briefing" on the 17th, "Students must act responsibly to ensure that they do not suffer harm themselves."
Chairman Lee stated, "Most students from 40 medical schools nationwide have returned to school, but a significant number of students are still hesitant or refusing to participate in classes," and added, "Training physicians is a mission entrusted to medical schools by society and the nation, and all members of medical schools must fulfill the responsibilities given by the community."
He added, "The remaining issues with medical reform are the responsibility of policy experts," and said, "Students have played their part sufficiently, and now it is time to find ways to participate in classes and reflect their opinions."
The medical association also reaffirmed that it will operate the 2025 academic year according to school regulations without a plan for academic flexibility. This means that it will adhere strictly to the regulations on issues like academic probation. Chairman Lee emphasized, "As I have confirmed several times that there is no plan for academic flexibility, medical schools and deans cannot make exceptions to this policy," urging that "medical students must all consider the future of their juniors and the physician training system so as not to cause difficulties."
Lee Jin-woo, who serves as the president of the Korean Council for Medical Education, said, "The confirmation of the admission total of 3,058 is an important turning point that can calm the chaos in education and training sites and reconsider the sustainability of the medical system," noting that "it is now time to return to each of our places." He urged medical students to "return to the field of learning and work hard academically to become true healthcare professionals for the people and patients."
He expressed hope to residents, saying, "I expect you to return to the training field and grow as specialists next to patients," adding that "your will and solidarity will be a driving force for making future medical systems healthier." He remarked, "I hope the government will also listen more closely to the voices from education and clinical practice in establishing future medical policies based on this decision," stating that "only when we base on the participation and cooperation of field experts can we realize a sustainable medical system for the people."