Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung has directed the government to explore methods for allowing women to safely access the abortion pill mifepristone, even in the absence of a comprehensive legal framework.

According to Yonhap News Agency, President Lee emphasized during a Cabinet meeting the health risks South Korean women face when purchasing the pill from international sources due to domestic restrictions. Addressing the issue, Lee stated, "Even if it causes some difficulties to the government, we have to allow them to take it appropriately." The meeting took place at Cheong Wa Dae, where Lee underscored the need for a pragmatic approach to the matter.

While abortion itself is not illegal in South Korea, the country lacks a defined legal structure for gestational limits and procedures. Lee highlighted the importance of addressing this gap, describing inaction as "irresponsible" on the government's part. He proposed granting doctors the discretion to prescribe mifepristone, as a safer alternative to women importing the medication from overseas without proper medical guidance.