Seoul: Health Minister Cho Kyoo-hong publicly expressed his disagreement with President Yoon Suk Yeol’s recent declaration of martial law, which was retracted approximately six hours after its announcement. Speaking during a parliamentary session, Cho clarified that he did not support the imposition of martial law, which was revealed during a Cabinet meeting held late Tuesday, just prior to Yoon’s announcement.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Minister Cho emphasized his belief that the martial law declaration was both illegal and unconstitutional. He recounted his reaction during the Cabinet meeting, stating, “I was so surprised and flustered. To be frank, I do not remember who said what,” when questioned about whether there was any resistance among the meeting’s participants regarding the decision.

Cho also voiced his opposition to the martial law decree’s fifth article, which mandated that trainee doctors and other medical personnel return to work within 48 hours. This order came amidst ongoing collectiv
e action by trainee doctors, who have been protesting since February against the government’s plan to increase the intake of medical school freshmen, a measure aimed at resolving a chronic shortage of doctors in critical areas.

Minister Cho criticized the directive, stating, “It went against the government’s stance to seek their return through dialogue, persuasion and faithful medical reform. The expressions were too aggressive.” His comments reflect a broader concern about the government’s approach to addressing healthcare challenges and the need for constructive dialogue with medical professionals.