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Seoul (South Korea): On Friday, South Korean police conducted a raid on the offices of the Korean Medical Association, according to an officer speaking to AFP. This action comes amidst the government's efforts to address a doctors' strike, which has resulted in widespread disruption in hospitals. Last week, nearly 10,000 junior doctors, constituting approximately 80 percent of the trainee workforce, went on strike. They are expressing their discontent with the government's proposal to significantly raise medical school admissions to address shortages and an aging population. In response, the government imposed a Thursday deadline for medical personnel to return to work or risk facing legal repercussions, such as suspension of medical licenses and potential arrest. The health ministry informed AFP that there is presently no official data available regarding the number of doctors who have returned after the deadline. However, South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported that the majority of striking doctors continued to stay off the job on Friday. Due to the widespread work stoppage, hospitals have been significantly affected, leading the government to elevate its public health alert to the highest level. The health ministry reported that approximately half of the surgeries planned at 15 major hospitals have been cancelled since last week. According to South Korean law, doctors are legally prohibited from engaging in strikes. Earlier this week, the government requested a police investigation into individuals linked to the work stoppage. Seoul's police confirmed conducting a raid on the Korean Medical Association (KMA) on Friday. In reaction to the Thursday deadline and the commencement of a police inquiry, the KMA criticized the government for employing "intimidation tactics" and accused it of transforming the country into a "totalitarian state." The government asserts it is aiming to tackle one of the lowest doctor-to-population ratios among developed nations by proposing to admit an additional 2,000 students to medical schools annually starting next year. Doctors argue that the plan will diminish the quality of service and medical education, while supporters contend that healthcare professionals are primarily worried about potential decreases in their salaries and social standing. The Korean Medical Association (KMA) announced that its members will stage a rally in Seoul on Sunday, with local reports indicating an estimated participation of around 25,000 individuals.