Korea’s first for-profit hospital to be permitted in Jeju

Jeju Gov. Won Hee-ryong will reportedly finalize the approval of opening the Greenland International Hospital, the first for-profit hospital in Korea, in Seogwipo City, Jeju.

The governor said Tuesday that the province would approve the opening of the hospital after consideration ever since the Public Opinion Investigation Committee has voted against the establishment of the Greenland International Hospital in early October. It has been said that the Mr. Won came up with such decision by taking into account the huge blow such as a downfall in international ratings, a huge sum of damage suit, and diplomatic issues in the event the hospital was disapproved. The announcement for approval is expected to be held at the Jeju provincial office on Wednesday.

Previously, Gov. Won revealed at a meeting of high-ranking officials in relation to the Greenland International Hospital on Monday, saying, “Although it is crucial to respect the recommendations of the Public Opinion Investigation Committee as much as we can, we came to a conclusion that now is the time to make a final decision by considering the recovery of regional economy such as administrative credibility, international creditworthiness, and generation of quality jobs.”

The Greenland International Hospital that has been built within the Health Care Town of Seogwipo City is expected to open early next year by conducting facility check once its opening is approved. The hospital, which was invested by China’s Greenland Group, acquired a business approval for a for-profit hospital from the government in December 2015 and completed constructing the hospital building in August last year. More than 77.8 billion won including land purchase expenses, construction expenses, facility expenses, and personnel expenses were invested and 134 people are currently hired.

There are some who are against the opening of such for-profit hospital. The Korean Health and Medical Workers’ Union claimed at a statement on Tuesday that “Reversing the Jeju residents’ democratic decision to disapprove the opening of Greenland International Hospital is a violence and outrage against democracy.”


Jae-Young Im jy788@donga.com