Abstract

In response to proposed legislation concerning the accreditation of psychological professionals, the Korean academic community has actively engaged in discussions surrounding the qualifications for these professionals. However, the legal intricacies arising from the legalization of the psychological professional qualification system have received limited attention. This article explores the intersection between the state’s responsibility to improve the mental health of its citizens and the psychological professional qualification system. It conducts an in-depth examination of the prerequisites necessary to safeguard individuals’ freedom of occupational choice within the legislative framework governing this qualification system. Additionally, this article presents a novel interpretation of the legal aspects related to the qualification system, rooted in the concept of professional speech.