Seoul, South Korea - A firestorm of controversy is engulfing South Korea’s medical community as allegations of harassment, defamation, and online vigilantism escalate following a disciplinary case involving a physician, identified as Mr. Ryu, whose medical license faces revocation by the Supreme court. While Mr. Ryu’s case initially centered on offenses for which he expressed remorse and reached settlements with some victims – despite being a first-time offender - the fallout has triggered a wave of damaging rumors and attacks targeting individuals connected to the case, prompting police investigations and legal action.
The controversy extends beyond Mr. Ryu’s punishment,which some in the medical field deem excessive given his 30 years of experience. Former Supreme Court Justice Kwon soon-il has offered to represent the public interest in the case, arguing for a thorough review. However, the core of the current crisis lies in the vitriolic response within online medical communities, specifically the closed forums ‘Medi Staff‘ and ‘Medigate,’ accessible only to verified medical professionals. Thes spaces have become breeding grounds for real-name criticism, the spread of false information, and personal attacks.
Specifically, unsubstantiated and deeply damaging rumors have circulated regarding an individual identified as “Mr. K,” alleging he “wore black stockings and seduced the doctor every night” and engaged in nightly relationships with a nurse. These claims, spread both online and through word of mouth, are unverified, according to officials. Doctors A and B are currently under police investigation for posting insulting comments that revealed a specific doctor’s real name, while Doctor C reportedly apologized to a victim and offered a considerable settlement after writing a similar article.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare has requested police investigate approximately 50 cases of threats, personal information distribution, and slander targeting working doctors, reported through a resident protection center. Many of these incidents occurred within private messaging apps like KakaoTalk, and authorities anticipate further disciplinary actions as the investigation unfolds. The situation highlights a troubling breakdown of professional conduct within segments of the South Korean medical community and raises concerns about the unchecked spread of misinformation and harassment.
