Korean obstetricians urge legislation before Mifepristone introduction

The Korean Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists is calling on the National Assembly to resolve a five-year legislative vacuum before the domestic introduction of the abortion pill, Mifepristone.

While the association does not oppose the introduction of the medication itself, it argues that relying on administrative guidelines rather than formal legislation poses significant risks. Since the Constitutional Court's 2019 decision rendered abortion laws unconstitutional, subsequent legislation defining the scope and procedures for pregnancy termination has not been established.

The association highlighted two primary concerns: patient safety and legal protection for medical professionals. They noted that complications such as incomplete miscarriage or excessive bleeding require emergency medical systems and surgical interventions, necessitating clear medical requirements and reimbursement structures. Furthermore, they warned that without clear laws, doctors could face criminal liability when prescribing medication for socio-economic reasons.

The group is urging the government and legislature to amend the Criminal Act and the Mother and Child Health Act to clarify regulations, establish legal grounds for prescribing and reporting side effects, and provide protections for doctors who refuse to prescribe based on conscience.