Gyeonggi Medical Association Pursues Bylaw Revision, Sparks Internal Conflict
The Gyeonggi Provincial Medical Association (GPMA) is moving forward with a controversial plan to revise its bylaws, potentially allowing current president Lee Dong-wook to seek re-election. This decision follows a legal battle with the Korean Medical Association (KMA) over the changes, and has ignited internal dissent within the GPMA itself.
Legal Dispute with the KMA
The GPMA initiated legal action after the KMA rejected its attempt to remove a bylaw limiting presidents to a single term. The KMA’s decision, made in August 2023, was contested by the GPMA, which argued it infringed upon the association’s autonomy. On February 17th, the Seoul Western District Court dismissed the GPMA’s application for a provisional injunction to approve the bylaw revision, stating the KMA’s rejection was not illegal. The GPMA is currently appealing this ruling.
Proposed Bylaw Changes and Upcoming Vote
Despite the ongoing legal challenge, the GPMA plans to pass a resolution at its regular general meeting on March 28, 2026, to “provisionally apply” the revised bylaws pending the final court decision. This resolution would likewise delegate authority over delegate allocation and election procedures to the GPMA Representative Steering Committee, Election Management Committee, and Standing Board of Directors.
If approved, Lee Dong-wook, who has served as president since 2018 and is an obstetrics and gynecology specialist, would be eligible to run for another term. He has been actively involved in protests against government policies, including demonstrations near the presidential office.
Internal Opposition and Concerns over Proxy Voting
The proposed changes have faced criticism from some GPMA delegates, who allege a lack of democratic process. Concerns center on the proxy voting system, where delegates can delegate their voting rights. Critics claim the GPMA has restricted delegate choice by making the indication of departmental voting intentions optional on the proxy statement.
the proxy statement only allows for “approval” or “disapproval” checkboxes, with any blank spaces automatically interpreted as a vote in favor of the chairman’s position. A group of GPMA delegates advocating for democratic practices has issued a statement calling the proxy system a “tool that forces the delegates’ conscience” and arguing it is not a legitimate form of democratic decision-making. They also criticize the attempt to present the bylaw revision as a general agenda item to avoid quorum requirements.
Some delegates have questioned the timing of the bylaw revision, suggesting the current regulations are not inherently flawed.
Looking Ahead
The GPMA maintains that proceeding with the bylaw revision is necessary to avoid disruption while the legal case is ongoing. The outcome of the March 28th general meeting and the ongoing legal battle with the KMA will determine the future leadership and direction of the Gyeonggi Provincial Medical Association.
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