September 1, 2024
To all expats and aliens living in South Korea,
We urge you to exercise extreme caution during the upcoming Chuseok holidays, as the country's emergency medical services are severely compromised due to the mass resignation of medical trainee doctors and emergency surgery professionals.
No Emergency Medical Services Available
Due to the unprecedented shortage of medical personnel, most general hospitals in South Korea will not be able to provide emergency medical services during the Chuseok holiday season. This means that if you experience a medical emergency, you may not receive the necessary treatment in a timely manner.
Precautions to Take
To minimize the risks, we recommend the following:
1. Obtain a prescription and medication in advance: If you have a chronic condition, ensure that you have a sufficient supply of medication before the Chuseok holidays.
2. Find alternative medical services: Identify first-line medical service clinics that will be open during the Chuseok holiday season.
3. Avoid medical emergencies: Due to the lack of emergency medical professionals, it is crucial to avoid situations that may lead to medical emergencies, such as binge drinking or drug parties.
4. Prepare for COVID-19: With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential to have a plan in place. Find drug stores with sufficient stocks of COVID-19 diagnostic kits and treatment medication.
5. Seek assistance from Korean natives or fluent Korean speakers: As much of the information is not available in English, it is crucial to seek help from someone who can communicate effectively in Korean.
6. Be aware of limited emergency response: While there will be emergency responders, such as paramedics, available during the Chuseok holiday season, they may not be able to provide the necessary medical assistance due to the lack of emergency room doctors.
7. Avoid high-risk areas: Steer clear of areas known for binge drinking or drug parties, such as Hongdae, to minimize the risk of medical emergencies.
8. A Must-Have Overseas Travel Health Insurance: Overseas travel health insurance is a must-have for anyone traveling to South Korea during this time. This type of insurance provides coverage for medical emergencies, evacuations, and other unexpected medical expenses that may arise during your stay in the country.
Spread the Word
We urge you to share this warning with fellow expats and aliens living in South Korea to ensure that everyone is aware of the potential risks and takes necessary precautions.
Government Inaction
Unfortunately, the South Korean government has not taken adequate measures to address this national medical emergency situation because they caused this situation. It is essential for individuals to take responsibility for their own safety and well-being during this critical period.
Stay safe, and stay informed.