China Wuhan Notifies Postponement of Lunar New Year Cultural Activities Amid Epidemic Concerns

[Asia Economy Beijing=Special Correspondent Park Sun-mi] Wuhan City tourism authorities in China have decided to postpone various Spring Festival commemorative cultural activities scheduled during this year's Chunje (Chinese Lunar New Year) period due to concerns over the spread of infectious diseases.

On the 21st, the Wuhan Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism issued an urgent notice through its official Weibo account, stating, "The '2020 Chunje Cultural and Tourism Activities' will be postponed," and asked for understanding.

The Bureau of Culture and Tourism stated, "As of 24:00 on January 20, 2020, 33,058 citizens had already made reservations to participate in these activities," adding, "Their turn will be deferred to the next cultural and tourism activities. Those concerned will receive related notification messages on their registered mobile phones."

The Wuhan tourism authorities had prepared 41 special activities under five major themes for this year's Chunje period. These included activities allowing free visits to major tourist sites in Wuhan, including Hwanghakru.

Meanwhile, the number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus originating in Wuhan has reached a cumulative total of 198. Among them, 4 have died and 9 are in critical condition.