Reflections on the Movement for the Legalization of Death with Dignity as Withdrawal of Futile Life-Sustaining Treatment in South Korea

Abstract

In this article, we will introduce Korea medico-legal cases that are related to the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment. This paper examines the issue of the legalization of eath with dignityby investigating Korea leading cases on the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatments and the current medical and legal situation in Korea. This paper also examines several preconditions for drafting a bill for such legislation. Considering the complexity of medical circumstances, laws and policies on end-of-life decision-making may not address every possible scenario. Thus, the laws and the policies would have to reflect the differing views of people based on their social status, moral values, religious

beliefs, and economic status. Therefore, it should be recognized that a public consensus is necessary for devising successful public policy and guidelines with respect to euthanasia and eath with dignityin Korea. So proper guidelines and public debates that incorporate the views of the public, the government, and medical and legal professional associations will help create a firmer foundation for making better laws and policies regarding the end of life care issues.