Investigation of the abortion-related experience of the providers, women, and advocators in South Korea: The neglected essential healthcare service

ObjectiveThe decriminalization of abortions in South Korea in 2019 has not been followed by the establishment of policies ensuring access to abortion services. This study aimed to explore the current challenges and barriers for quality abortion services in the Korean healthcare system. MethodsEleven women, six healthcare providers, and 11 advocates participated in in-depth interviews in 2020. Experiences of abortion were analyzed using the modified Availability, Accessibility, Acceptability, and Quality (AAAQ) framework. ResultsWhile informal, access to surgical abortion services was possible in general. However, accessibility to services and information varied according to women's age, marital status, and physical condition. Considering that the Korean government has been reluctant to adopt proactive measures to ensure access to abortion services, the quality of abortion care in Korea remains questionable, with the mandate of male consent for abortion prevailing. The women interviewed in this study expressed dissatisfaction with their current access to and the quality of abortion services. ConclusionAbortion is an essential service that ensures the sexual and reproductive health and rights of women. Although abortion was decriminalized in Korea in 2019, it remains an informal and stigmatized service. Further research and policy efforts are required to ensure access to abortion in Korea.