South Korean Doctors' Strike Sparks Public Health Alert and Surgeon Resignations
South Korea has raised its public health alert to "severe" for the first time as 8,400 doctors continue their strike against government plans to increase the number of trainee doctors. The strike has led to major hospitals canceling operations and turning away patients, prompting concerns about the impact on public health. The government argues that more doctors are needed to address future healthcare challenges posed by the country's rapidly aging population, but the striking doctors insist they are also advocating for higher pay and reduced workloads. The dispute has left patients worried about access to medical care, while the government and doctors remain at an impasse.