Physician-Scientist Training System and Development Strategies in Korea

Physician-scientists play a pivotal role in bridging clinical practice and biomedical research, advancing medical science, and tackling complex healthcare challenges. In South Korea, the declining number of medical doctors engaging in basic medical sciences has prompted the implementation of various training initiatives since the 2000s. Notable initiatives, such as the Integrated Physician-Scientist Training Program (2019) and the Global Physician-Scientist Training Program (2024), aim to cultivate multidisciplinary physician-scientists capable of addressing unmet medical needs. This study offers a comprehensive overview of the current training systems, funding mechanisms, and strategic approaches for physician-scientists in South Korea, compares them with international best practices, and proposes actionable policy recommendations to enhance their effectiveness and long-term sustainability.