The Korean Society of Neonatology has urged President Lee Jae-myung to take emergency measures, warning that "the collapse of neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) has become a reality right before our eyes."

In an appeal, the society stated, "NICUs across the country have reached their limits, and the situation in non-capital regions is particularly close to a disaster." They pointed out that "the crisis of suspended operations at the Chonbuk National University Hospital NICU is not an issue limited to a specific hospital, but the tip of the iceberg signaling a nationwide collapse."

The society further emphasized that this situation did not happen overnight.

According to the society, the recruitment rate for pediatric residents in the second half of last year was only 13.4 percent.

The society expressed deep concern, stating, "The new supply of neonatology specialists, who will be responsible for the future of NICUs, has been completely cut off."

They also urged the President to "implement immediate emergency measures to provide a lifeline to the crumbling NICUs."

(Photo: Provided by Yonhap News TV, Yonhap News)