The anticipated premiere of tvN’s new drama, “Wise Resident Life,” has encountered unexpected challenges due to the ongoing backlash from the medical community against the expansion of medical school enrollment and mass resignations of medical professionals.
Originally slated to debut in May as a follow-up to “Queen of Tears,” “Wise Resident Life” now finds itself in the midst of uncertainty. Following the mass resignations of medical majors and discussions about the formation of ‘Wise Resident Life,’ there are growing concerns about the drama’s ability to weather the storm if it proceeds with its original programming.
The controversy stems from the government’s decision to increase the number of medical school seats, triggering widespread protests within the medical community. Doctors and medical students, particularly from prominent hospitals known as the “Big 5” in the Seoul metropolitan area, submitted resignation letters and leaves of absence in opposition to the policy. The situation escalated to the point where interns and residents left their positions, prompting the Ministry of Health and Welfare to intervene and order doctors to maintain their practice.
The mass exodus of medical professionals has led to a growing vacuum in the healthcare system, with fatigue among remaining staff and inconveniences for patients becoming increasingly prevalent. With around 13,000 doctors working in training hospitals nationwide, the impact of their collective resignation is felt acutely in emergency on-call services, leaving patients in distress.
Critics argue that the doctors’ opposition to the expansion of medical schools is driven by self-interest, accusing them of prioritizing their own livelihoods over their commitment to the Hippocratic oath and patient care. This sentiment has spilled over to “Wise Resident Life,” with the drama being labeled as ‘hateful’ before it even airs.
The drama, a spin-off of the acclaimed “Hospital Playlist,” is directed by Shin Won-ho and written by Lee Woo-jung. It aims to explore the lives of obstetrics and gynecology residents in the era of low birthrates, offering realistic stories that reflect the challenges faced by these medical professionals.
While “Hospital Playlist” was lauded for portraying the humanity and dedication of doctors, some critics accused it of glorifying the medical profession. The backlash against “Wise Resident Life” is fueled by the fear that the drama may not realistically depict the struggles and decisions faced by residents amid the ongoing controversy.
Navigating the challenges of the current atmosphere, especially with the diversification of broadcasting platforms, is not an easy task for tvN. The network has several pre-production works with existing contracts that would require renegotiation if release times are altered.
As the medical community continues to grapple with the aftermath of mass resignations, “Wise Resident Life” faces the delicate task of addressing societal concerns while staying true to its narrative. The drama’s ability to navigate this complex landscape and provide a balanced portrayal of the medical profession will likely play a crucial role in its reception among viewers.
