The sterile scent of antiseptic, the hushed whispers, the stark white walls of a hospital’s interior – these were the hallmarks of Dr. Kim Doyoung’s world at 18.
“Cancer,” he said, the word a heavy weight. It was a cruel twist for a young man fascinated by the brain, who dreamt of research and innovation. At such a tender age, he faced grueling chemotherapy, relentless fatigue, and the ever-present fear of mortality.
But amidst the darkness, a spark ignited. “Witnessing the doctors and nurses fight for my life awakened something within me,” he shared, eyes shining with determination. “I wanted to offer others the same hope and compassion.”
This newfound purpose led him to pursue Medicine at SEGi University. “My father encouraged me to start with a medical degree,” he explains, “a foundation of stability and flexibility.” But the path to medical school wasn’t without its hurdles. “The mandatory military service for Korean men loomed over me,” Doyoung recalls. “I worried that two years of service would put me behind my peers.” Then, there was the cancer itself, a formidable opponent that tested his physical and emotional limits. “Losing my hair was the least of my worries,” he says with a wry smile.
The cancer, thankfully, wasn’t aggressive, but the treatment was arduous. “It took a year and a half of chemotherapy,” he shares, “a year and a half of battling not just the disease but also the fear and uncertainty that came with it.” Yet, as fate would have it, his cancer diagnosis brought an unexpected silver lining – an exemption from military service. “It was a strange twist,” he admits, “but it allowed me to focus on my recovery and pursue my newfound passion for medicine.”
A Shared Path at SEGi University
His journey, however, was far from solitary. His sister, Dr. Kim Jayoun, initially approached Medicine with a different perspective. “It wasn’t a childhood dream,” she confesses, her voice tinged with a quiet strength. “It was my father’s suggestion, a practical path to a stable life.”
But as she delved deeper into the world of medicine, witnessing the vulnerability of patients and the power of healing, her sense of obligation transformed into a profound appreciation for the profession. “I saw how a doctor’s touch, a kind word, or a well-timed intervention could make a world of difference,” she shares, her eyes sparkling with newfound passion. “And I realised that this was where I belonged, making a difference in the lives of others.”
Together, the siblings embarked on their medical journey at SEGi University, drawn to its diverse student body and the opportunity to pursue international pathways after graduation. “The chance to connect with students from all over the world and potentially practice medicine in countries like the US or UK was a major factor in our decision,” they explain.
A Bond Strengthened
The sibling dynamic, while a source of strength, also presented challenges. “Constant comparisons were inevitable,” Jayoun admits. “It was easy to fall into the trap of self-doubt, especially in a high-pressure field like medicine.”
Doyoung, in turn, found solace in Jayoun’s unwavering belief in him. “She always saw the best in me, even when I doubted myself,” he says. “Her support was my anchor during the darkest days of my cancer treatment and throughout the challenges of medical school.”
Even with their strong bond, moments of self-doubt crept in. “Almost every end-of-posting exam filled me with anxiety,” Doyoung confessed. “The Professional 2 exam was particularly daunting. The sheer volume of material to master felt overwhelming.” He felt a wave of panic, unsure where to even begin. “It was like facing a mountain with no clear path,” he recalls. But he persevered, channeling his anxiety into focused study, tackling one subject, one specialty at a time. “I learned to break down the overwhelming into manageable chunks,” he reflects, “and eventually, I conquered the mountain of knowledge.”
They developed a unique language of support, a shared understanding that transcended words. A knowing glance across the anatomy lab, a silent squeeze of the hand during a stressful exam, late-night study sessions fueled by shared laughter – these were the threads that wove their bond ever tighter.
Clinical Rotations in Sibu
Their time at SEGi University took them beyond the classroom and into the heart of Malaysia. Their clinical rotations in Sibu, Sarawak, proved to be a transformative experience. “Imagine landing in a remote town with limited English speakers, no Korean community, and a completely different cultural landscape,” Jayoun describes, a hint of laughter in her voice. They navigated language barriers with a mix of Google Translate and improvised sign language, learned to appreciate the slower pace of life, and formed deep connections with patients from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
“Sibu forced us to step outside our comfort zones,” Doyoung adds. “It taught us the importance of cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and genuine human connection.”
Jayoun’s Malaysian Metamorphosis
Jayoun’s time in Malaysia was a journey of cultural immersion and personal growth. One of the most striking differences she observed was the pace of life. “In Korea, it’s all about ‘bbali bbali’ – hurry hurry,” she explains. “But Malaysia has a more relaxed rhythm.” Initially surprised by this contrast, she gradually learned to appreciate the slower pace and the emphasis on balance.
This cultural difference extended to social interactions as well. “I’m used to arriving early for appointments,” Jayoun admits, “but my Malaysian friends have a more flexible approach to punctuality.” After a few missed meetups and confused glances, she learned to adapt, embracing the concept of “Malaysian time.” “Now, I see those extra minutes as an opportunity to slow down, and appreciate my surroundings,” she says with a smile.
Being one of only two Koreans in their cohort, Jayoun and Doyoung cherished the connections they made with classmates from diverse backgrounds. “We were invited to celebrate Chinese New Year, Diwali, and Iftar,” Jayoun shares. “We even visited longhouses in Sibu during Gawai.”
Reflecting on her time in Malaysia, Jayoun recognises the profound impact it has had on her personal growth. “I’ve learned to adapt to new situations, embrace different perspectives, and find joy in the unexpected,” she says. “The most valuable lesson? ‘Do what you’ve got to do.’ It’s a simple mantra, but it’s helped me navigate challenges and embrace the opportunities that come my way.”
Looking Ahead: A Future of Healing
While Jayoun’s journey began with a sense of duty, it was her experiences in Malaysia that ignited a passion for patient advocacy and global health. “I want to dedicate my career to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to live a healthy life,” she declared, her voice ringing with determination.
Doyoung, on the other hand, approaches medicine with a profound sense of empathy born from his own brush with mortality. “Every patient interaction is a reminder of my own vulnerability,” he shares, his voice hushed with understanding. “It’s a privilege to walk alongside them on their healing journey.” Their motivations may differ, but their shared goal is clear: to heal, to comfort, and to empower.
As they prepare to embark on their respective careers, the Kim siblings carry with them the lessons learned at SEGi University and the indelible mark of their shared journey. Their story is a testament to the power of resilience, the transformative potential of adversity, and the enduring strength of sibling love. It’s a story that reminds us that even in the face of life’s greatest challenges, the human spirit can triumph, and a shared stethoscope can become a symbol of hope and healing.
Disclaimer: Kim Jayoun is not pictured in this article as per her request.