Seoul:Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called on South Korea to ensure broader access to abortion pills as the nation plans to introduce this medication next year. The organization views the initiative as a significant step but cautions that certain restrictions could render abortion services inaccessible.
According to Yonhap News Agency, HRW released a statement on Sunday emphasizing the importance of South Korea's plan to formally introduce medication abortion in 2027. The New York-based human rights group expressed concerns that proposed limitations on the use of abortion pills might make them difficult to access and afford.
HRW highlighted the necessity for South Korean lawmakers to prevent overly restrictive regulations that could hinder access to abortions. Susanne Bergsten, acting women's rights research assistant at HRW, emphasized the need for the National Assembly to align abortion legislation with international human rights standards to safeguard patients and providers.
The South Korean government revealed last month that it plans to allow the use of abortion pills for women up to nine weeks pregnant. This follows a 2019 Constitutional Court decision striking down the abortion ban, though related regulations have yet to be updated. Initially, only doctors at large medical institutions would be permitted to prescribe and dispense the medication during the first two years.
HRW criticized the proposed rules for being inconsistent with medical practices supporting medication abortion up to 12 weeks of pregnancy, as well as World Health Organization guidelines recommending a wider range of qualified health workers to provide such care. The group warned that limiting authorized providers could impede women's access to timely medical services, especially for those with difficulties reaching hospitals.
Additionally, HRW urged South Korean legislators to ensure abortion services are covered by the national health insurance system and to pass laws that clarify abortion rights and protect both patients and medical providers.