The difference between assisted dying and euthanasia lies in the method and the primary agent of medical intervention in a patient’s death.
Assisted dying refers to a situation where a patient ends their life by self-administering prescribed drugs or following prepared procedures under a doctor’s guidance. The emphasis is on the patient’s autonomy and choice, with the physician providing the necessary drugs or tools but not directly administering them. Euthanasia, on the other hand, involves a doctor actively helping to end a patient’s life. This could include administering a lethal dose of medication or otherwise inducing death. Active euthanasia is carried out only with the explicit consent of the patient. Both practices aim to alleviate suffering, but they are approached differently in legal and ethical debates.
Countries such as Switzerland, Belgium, and Australia have already legalized assisted dying, sparking global discussions on its implications. Recently, the UK House of Commons passed a bill legalizing assisted dying, drawing significant attention once more. This article explores international examples of assisted dying, the legal frameworks surrounding it, and the potential for legalization in South Korea.
Switzerland permits assisted dying but still prohibits direct euthanasia. Organizations like Dignitas assist voluntary, medically eligible individuals to die with dignity. This reflects Switzerland’s legal framework, which emphasizes autonomy and the alleviation of suffering. Recently, the introduction of the “Sarco Capsule,” a 3D-printed device that facilitates a peaceful death by removing oxygen with the press of a button, has stirred controversy. The legality of such technology remains under review. Belgium made history in 2002 by enacting the Euthanasia Act, becoming the first country to legalize both euthanasia and physician-assisted dying. In 2014, the law was expanded to include minors, making it one of the most progressive frameworks globally. In 2018, over 2,400 individuals in Belgium chose euthanasia, reflecting not only the law’s widespread acceptance but also its profound impact on ensuring patient dignity. In Australia, assisted dying laws are implemented at the state level. Victoria passed its legislation in 2017, coming into effect in 2019, while Western Australia followed suit in 2021. New South Wales approved its assisted dying law in 2022, which will take effect in November 2023. The UK House of Commons recently passed an assisted dying bill with 330 votes in favor and 275 against. The legislation allows terminally ill adults over the age of 18 to seek medical assistance to end their lives, provided they secure approval from two physicians and a High Court judge. While awaiting final approval in the House of Lords, the British Medical Association and the Royal College of Physicians are working to draft detailed guidelines to balance patient rights with medical ethics.
South Korea currently lacks clear legal provisions for assisted dying or euthanasia. However, the Act on Decisions on Life-Sustaining Treatment for Patients in Hospice and Palliative Care (commonly known as the “Well-Dying Act” in Korea) was implemented in February, 2018. This law allows individuals to submit an Advance Directive on Life-Sustaining Treatment, enabling them to decide in advance whether they wish to receive life-sustaining treatments such as CPR, hemodialysis, chemotherapy, or mechanical ventilation during their final stages of life. In October 2023, over 2 million South Koreans registered advance directives, signaling increasing public awareness and demand for dignity in death.
Legalizing assisted dying in South Korea would require thorough debates across legal, societal, and ethical dimensions. Public surveys show overwhelming support, with 84% of respondents expressing positive views on the matter. However, strong opposition from medical and religious groups has stalled legislative discussions. Assisted dying is a discussion centered on human dignity and autonomy, shaped by each country’s legal framework and cultural values. Countries such as Switzerland, Belgium, and Australia have advanced patient rights through their legislation, with the UK now poised to join their ranks. In South Korea, the time has come to begin meaningful societal and legal discussions to strike a balance between the dignity of patients and the ethical considerations surrounding life and death.
