(COVID-19 / 코로나19) South Korea extends current social distancing measures for two more weeks

2021-08-06

 

 

South Korea confirmed 1,704 new COVID-19 cases on Friday. Daily cases have now stayed above the 1,000 mark for more than 30 straight days. Cases outside the greater Seoul area accounted for 38% of the new infection. Busan added 105 cases and Chung Chung Buk Do province 38 due to a cluster linked to a pub. Other major cluster infections emerged at various facilities, including saunas, internet cafes, and hair shops. Many of those infected were those in their 20's and 30's who haven't been vaccinated. Despite it not really working at least up until now to try and stem the spread somewhat. South Korean health officials have extended the current level of social distancing for another fortnight. The government announced that the current measures will remain as they are for two more weeks. That means the capital area will stay under the highest distancing level 4 with level 3 applied to most areas across the nation. Abandoned gatherings of three or more people after 6 p.m. will also remain in the greater Seoul area. The decision comes as the government tries to contain the virus, especially with more people expected to travel around the country during the summer vacation season.

Here's the reason given by the prime minister regarding the extension.

"There is an alternative holiday for National Liberation Day next week, which could accelerate the spread of the virus. And also, it is very important to provide a safe environment for our children to study at school for the upcoming second semester."

 

The government also said that easing the distancing level in the capital area to level 3 could be considered once the average daily cases in the region dropped below 800. For now, while there were no significant changes made, the prime minister said small adjustments will be implemented to shore up loopholes that have been identified over the past month.

 

 

(COVID-19 / 코로나19) South Korea extends current social distancing measures for two more weeks