Government to Deploy Charter Flights to Wuhan on 30-31st... Over 700 Passengers Registered

Prime Minister Jeong Sye-gyun.

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwangho Lee] The government has decided to deploy charter flights over two days, from the 30th to the 31st, to evacuate nationals staying in Wuhan, China.

Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun chaired a meeting of related ministers at the Government Seoul Office on the afternoon of the 28th and stated in his opening remarks, "For those nationals staying in Wuhan who wish to return home, we will take proactive measures such as sending charter flights over the two days of the 30th and 31st."

Prime Minister Chung explained, "The Chinese government has effectively locked down Wuhan city and its surrounding areas, and our nationals who are isolated there have requested government support. We will fulfill the state's duty to protect overseas nationals without any negligence."

The Prime Minister further emphasized, "We will thoroughly establish quarantine measures to prevent the introduction or spread of infectious diseases while these individuals are being evacuated locally and staying in the country."

He added, "We will continue cooperation by delivering medical relief supplies such as masks and protective suits to China via charter flights."

Prime Minister Chung also said, "As concerns about the spread of the novel coronavirus infection grow, fake news such as reports of domestic deaths are rampant. Relevant ministries will respond firmly to fake news that causes social confusion and unnecessary fear, and I hope the health authorities will provide explanations promptly by holding briefings twice a day on issues the public is curious about."

Earlier, the Wuhan Consulate General accepted applications for boarding the charter flights from nationals staying in Wuhan, and it has been confirmed that about 700 people have applied so far.