[Asia Economy Reporter Park Hyesook] Due to the impact of the novel coronavirus infection (Wuhan pneumonia), daycare centers in Bucheon, Gyeonggi Province that had been closed will resume normal operations starting from the 10th.
Bucheon City announced that it lifted the closure order for 578 daycare centers on the 9th and will conduct normal childcare services from the 10th.
Earlier, after confirming that the 12th and 14th confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in Korea resided in Bucheon and had moved around various parts of the city, the city issued a closure order for 578 daycare centers on the 3rd.
However, since the number of confirmed novel coronavirus cases in the area did not increase and suspected cases repeatedly tested negative for infection, the closure order for the daycare centers will be maintained only until the 9th.
Nevertheless, even after the closure ends, if children or their families have visited China or Southeast Asia, or if guardians report absences to the daycare centers due to infection concerns, special attendance exceptions will be applied and childcare fees will be supported.
The city also plans to request each daycare center to have children and teachers wear masks and to refrain from outdoor events in preparation for any emergencies.
Furthermore, children who feel uneasy about attending daycare centers will be guided to postpone attendance voluntarily.
Mayor Jang Deokcheon stated, "Considering the care gaps occurring in dual-income families, we have decided to lift the closure order for daycare centers," and added, "We will disinfect the inside and outside of daycare centers daily so that parents can entrust their children with peace of mind."
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