Hwang Kyo-ahn "Wuhan Pneumonia Situation Rapidly Worsening... Entry Restrictions on China Must Be Expanded"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] Hwang Kyo-ahn, leader of the United Future Party, urged on the 19th to expand restrictions on Chinese entry as the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), also known as 'Wuhan pneumonia,' is rapidly worsening.

On the same day, Hwang posted on Facebook, saying, "The Wuhan pneumonia situation is rapidly deteriorating."

He stated, "Today, 15 additional confirmed cases were reported, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 46. More than 10 confirmed cases occurred simultaneously in Daegu, and confirmed cases were also reported in Seongdong-gu, Seoul." He expressed concern, saying, "The confirmed cases that caused mass infections in Daegu were infected outside the quarantine network, and I am deeply worried that an uncontrollable quarantine crisis may have begun."

He continued, "What is the government doing? I cannot help but point out the government's failure in initial response," criticizing, "Despite deep public concern and warnings from experts, the government consistently responded sluggishly and with deference to China. Although they said they would respond excessively, it was all just talk."

Hwang emphasized, "Meanwhile, the Wuhan pneumonia virus was spreading outside the quarantine network without regard to anyone," adding, "The government must now consider expanding restrictions on entry from China according to the recommendations of the Korean Medical Association and prepare a nationwide quarantine system in anticipation of a prolonged situation. Both I and the United Future Party will actively work on this."

Meanwhile, Hwang plans to hold an emergency press conference related to Wuhan pneumonia at the National Assembly main building in the afternoon to urge the government to prepare countermeasures.