Raising a child is a journey of rewarding milestones, but for many parents—especially those starting out—it can be a source of constant anxiety. "Don't struggle alone; seek out a pediatrician," says Jeong Seong-gwan, Chairman of the Woori Children’s Medical Foundation. He views pediatricians as facilitators who ensure a child's health doesn't hinder their potential, allowing parents to maintain a positive mindset.
Chairman Jeong emphasizes that parents should rely on specialists rather than being misled by exaggerated information on social media. Below, he addresses the most common concerns parents face in a candid interview.
Many parents panic the moment their child has a fever. Is an immediate dose of fever reducers always necessary?
"The first misconception is that fever occurs solely because of pain, leading to the stereotype that medication is mandatory the moment the temperature exceeds 38°C. In reality, fever is an immune signal—proof that the body is fighting viruses or bacteria. The vital metric is the 'condition of the child,' not the 'number on the thermometer.' If a child is playing well and staying hydrated at 38.5°C, there is no need to rush. Similarly, never wake a sleeping child just to give them medicine. The purpose of fever reducers is to alleviate discomfort, not to force a 'normal' temperature. However, if a child is lethargic at 37.8°C, they need medication. Immediate emergency care is only required for infants under three months with a fever over 38°C, or if convulsions last more than five minutes."
Aside from those emergencies, when should parents of older children seek hospital care for a fever?
"You should seek help if fever reducers fail to work after an hour, if a fever persists for more than five days accompanied by lethargy, or if the fever lasts beyond seven days regardless of intensity. Altered consciousness or prolonged convulsions are also immediate red flags. For persistent fevers without acute symptoms, it is always wiser to visit your regular pediatrician during the day to find the root cause rather than rushing to the emergency room."
Many parents are in a constant 'war' over picky eaters. How should nutritional imbalances be resolved?
"Do not obsess over a perfect diet chart. Children often go through a phase called 'food neophobia,' where they insist on a very limited range of foods. Forcing them to eat turns the dinner table into a stressor, which actually lowers their digestion and absorption rates. A few unbalanced meals will not stunt a child’s growth. Instead, focus on modeling enjoyable eating habits. While calcium is often the focus for growth, ensure you are also including high-quality protein and Vitamin D, which are essential for bone development."
There is an endless sea of advertisements for children's supplements. Are they truly essential?
"If a child is getting sufficient nutrition through their meals, supplements are unnecessary. However, Vitamin D deficiency is widespread among children in our country due to limited outdoor activity. Since Vitamin D is directly linked to immunity, it is worth consulting a specialist for supplementation. Be careful, though—excessive intake can strain the kidneys or liver. Rather than following trends, design a health plan based on your child’s specific blood tests and growth curves."
Your foundation is known for its Mental Health Center. How does childhood stress differ from adult stress?
"Children express stress through their bodies rather than words. Symptoms like unexplained abdominal pain, headaches, bedwetting, or sudden aggression are often psychological distress signals. Major changes, such as a new sibling or starting school, can create immense pressure. If parents simply tell a child to 'stop whining,' the child may shut down emotionally. If physical symptoms lack a clear medical cause, it is essential to examine the child’s environment."
You specialized in nephrology. Why is pediatric kidney health often overlooked, and what signs should parents watch for?
"The kidneys are 'silent organs'—they often don't send signals until 80% of their function is gone. The most common indicators of pediatric kidney disease are changes in urine. Watch for excessive bubbles (proteinuria), cola-colored or bright red urine (hematuria), or swelling around the eyes and feet. If a child is growing significantly slower than their peers or suffers from chronic fatigue, kidney function should be investigated immediately."
What is the best way to protect a child's kidneys in daily life?
"The most critical factor is a low-sodium diet. Children today are exposed to high salt levels through processed foods and takeout, which overworks the kidneys' filtration system. Additionally, cultivate a habit of proper hydration to help flush out waste and prevent urinary tract infections. Finally, manage their weight; childhood obesity is a significant risk factor for kidney disease."
Chairman Jeong concludes that while doctors are the supporting cast, parents are the lead actors in a child’s health. "The best doctors start with the parents' observational skills. Wise parenting is not about being a perfect parent, but a process of growing together with your child."
