"Concerns Over New Coronavirus Spread"... Domestic Casinos Restrict Entry for Chinese Groups

Individual Tourists Not Restricted, but Entry Advisory Issued for Residents from Hubei Province

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Heung-soon] As the novel coronavirus infection (Wuhan pneumonia) originating in Wuhan, China spreads, some domestic casino industries have taken measures such as restricting the entry of Chinese group tourists.

According to related industries on the 28th, Grand Korea Leisure (GKL), which operates foreigner-only casinos, has restricted the entry of Chinese group tourists at all its casinos, including the COEX branch in Gangnam, Seoul, the Hilton branch in Gangbuk, and the Lotte branch in Busan, starting from the 27th. Individual Chinese tourists are not prohibited from using the casinos. However, GKL officials explained that even individual tourists from Hubei Province, where Wuhan is located, are advised to refrain from entering.

GKL Casino stated, "This decision was made considering the public's concerns about the novel coronavirus and to prevent the spread of the infection." Separately, they have formed a task force (TF) team to respond to the novel coronavirus, preparing for any emergencies, disinfecting the casino interior daily, and installing thermal imaging cameras to monitor entrants.

Paradise Group, which operates foreigner-only casinos, is not currently restricting the entry of Chinese customers. A Paradise official said, "Since operations are based on VIP customers, the demand from group tourists is limited," and added, "If customers with fever symptoms are detected through thermal imaging cameras installed at the entrance, we have a policy to immediately contact the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and restrict entry."