South Korea launches first recruitment for regional physician system

South Korea is launching its first recruitment for the regional physician system, aimed at securing medical personnel for non-metropolitan areas. Starting on the 7th, 32 medical schools and graduate medical schools across the country will select 490 students through early admissions.

Under this system, the state and local governments provide support for tuition and textbooks. In exchange, selected students receive a conditional medical license that requires them to serve in designated regional areas for 10 years after passing the national medical exam. Failure to fulfill this obligation can lead to the suspension or revocation of the medical license, and even if tuition and interest are repaid, the 10-year service requirement remains mandatory.

Eligibility is strictly tied to educational history. Applicants must have completed their entire middle and high school curriculum within specific regional or metropolitan boundaries. The Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Education have released a guide to help applicants navigate complex requirements regarding residency, school locations, and the specific service areas for different recruitment categories.