Grand Rounds Theatre Blues 13 : Pursuing Career in South Korea
Stories worth sharing from doctors who pursue knowledge across borders and explore how medicine, research, and innovation can grow beyond clinical practice ✨
From working in a public health centre in Indonesia to pursuing advanced studies in South Korea; this journey reflects how curiosity, dedication, and passion for population health can open doors to global research and collaboration ❤️
The Contributor
Name: dr. Irina Aulianisa, MD, MPH
Role: PhD Student, College of Medicine – Seoul National University
Academic Background: Master of Public Health, Seoul National University
Double major in Human System Medicine with a minor in Innovative Medical Science
About the Contributor : Inspired by her public health experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, dr. Irina travelled to South Korea to study population-level health and is now in her fifth year pursuing a PhD at Seoul National University. Supported by the Brain Korea 21 scholarship, she majors in Human System Medicine and focuses on AI-driven medical innovation, specifically researching an AI tool (TB-CAD) for tuberculosis detection. While she thrives in Korea's fast-paced yet supportive research environment, she highlights a major limitation: South Korea currently prohibits foreign-trained doctors from practicing clinically or entering residency programs. Despite this barrier, which restricts international doctors to temporary supervised roles, she remains hopeful that increasing globalization will eventually open clinical pathways for foreign professionals.
For #TeamTheatreBlues and those considering postgraduate studies, dr. Irina shares a simple yet meaningful message: start exploring your passion early and let it guide your choice of major. Think carefully about your long-term career direction, then choose a program that supports that path. She also encourages future students to research both the academic field and the country they plan to study in, while preparing short-term and long-term plans that align with their personal goals.
Curious to learn more about dr. Irina’s journey and connect with her?
Explore the full story and discover the next inspiring path ahead ✨