The integration process of North Korean defector physicians into the South Korean medical system

Abstract

Physicians who have defected from North Korea and settled in South Korea (North Korean defector physicians, NKDPs) have experienced hardship in the occupational integration process due to their low socio-economic status, lack of information, and differences in medicosocial cultures, English-based medical terminology, and the clinical knowledge gap between North and South Korea. Here, we review the relevant literature on the credentialing process for former Soviet physicians in Israel. We present empirical findings regarding the ongoing educational experience of NKDPs preparing for the Korean national medical licensing examination. The approval process from the National Health Personnel Licensing Examination Board for NKDPs to sit for the national medical licensing examination under the current licensing system needs more objective credentialing criteria. Systematic and sustained supportive plans are needed for educating NKPDs to prepare for the licensing examination. Securing additional internships and residencies is needed for further sustained training of NKDPs after certification. A continuing medical education program can address the needs of those who have not completed a residency program for primary care and improve quality of care. We hope more extensive discussion will take place on the credentialing and integration of NKPDs following a policy of engagement from the perspective of human resource building and partnership for unification of the medical system between South and North Korea.