South Korea has renewed the debate over access to medication abortion after President Lee Jae-myung called on authorities to explore ways to allow the use of abortion medication under medical supervision, even before a new legal framework is established.

The statement brought renewed attention to a long-standing issue: after the Constitutional Court ruled in 2019 that the criminal prohibition of abortion was unconstitutional, the country has failed to adopt a clear legal system regulating access to abortion services. (biz.chosun.com)

Seven years of legislative uncertainty

In 2019, South Korea’s Constitutional Court ruled that the existing criminal restrictions on abortion violated women’s fundamental rights and ordered lawmakers to create new legislation.

The deadline for introducing new regulations expired at the end of 2020, but lawmakers were unable to reach agreement on key issues, including time limits for abortion access and the conditions under which the procedure should be permitted. As a result, women and healthcare providers have remained in a situation of legal uncertainty. (biz.chosun.com)

Unsafe access to abortion medication

According to authorities, the absence of an official access system has contributed to the growth of illegal online distribution of abortion medications. Medicines obtained through unauthorized sources may raise concerns regarding product quality, authenticity and the absence of medical supervision.

Public health experts warn that without a regulated healthcare system, women may face unnecessary risks that could be reduced through safe, monitored medical services. (biz.chosun.com)

The debate over medication abortion

President Lee Jae-myung has argued that the government needs to find solutions allowing women to access safe healthcare services while broader legislative discussions continue.

Medication abortion is already widely used in many countries and is recognized by the World Health Organization as a safe and effective method when provided according to medical guidelines and with appropriate access to healthcare support.

In South Korea, however, approval and regulation of abortion medications have been delayed because of disagreements over the wider legal framework surrounding abortion. (biz.chosun.com)

Different reactions from healthcare professionals

Medical organizations have expressed concerns about introducing medication abortion without clear rules regarding prescription, medical assessment and follow-up care.

At the same time, reproductive health advocates and some pharmaceutical organizations argue that approval of abortion medication should be part of a broader system that ensures access to sexual and reproductive healthcare services. (biz.chosun.com)

The need for a public health based approach

South Korea’s experience reflects a challenge faced by many countries: when legislation does not keep pace with medical realities and social needs, access to reproductive healthcare can become uncertain and unequal.

The current debate demonstrates that protecting women’s health requires not only legislative decisions but also accessible healthcare services, accurate information and systems that prioritize patient safety.

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• This article is adapted from material published by CHOSUNBIZ. The original article is available in English:
  https://biz.chosun.com/en/en-science/2026/07/15/OTUS2OPO6RGBTNIVFZL2ESCCGM/