In a significant hearing, psychiatrist Yang Jae-woong appeared before South Korea's National Assembly to address the tragic death of a patient linked to his hospital.
During the session, he was questioned about the hospital's responsibility in the patient's demise; however, he firmly denied any acknowledgment of negligence. Despite repeated inquiries regarding the medical team's adherence to patient care protocols, Yang maintained that it was "difficult to recognize any fault." When pressed about specific incidents during the patient's care, he stated that he could not comment as it was still under investigation.
Nevertheless, Yang conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family and emphasized his intention to express regret personally. He acknowledged the trust the family placed in his hospital for their loved one's recovery, reaffirming his remorse for any distress caused by the incident.
This controversy intensified when the hospital, recognized for addiction treatment, faced allegations of excessive restraints, igniting sharp criticism from lawmakers. Further investigations are underway regarding potential collusion between health officials and the hospital, raising concerns about patient safety and hospital practices.
The incident has had repercussions on Yang’s career, leading to his departure from a radio program and postponing his wedding with K-pop star Hani. The ongoing scrutiny and impact on his professional life signal the gravity of the situation and its effects on the broader healthcare community.