[Breaking] "Among 156 Domestic COVID-19 Cases, 98 Linked to Shincheonji"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-gi] Among 156 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) in South Korea, the health authorities revealed that 98 are linked to the Shincheonji Daegu Church.

Jung Eun-kyung, head of the Central Disease Control Headquarters, explained at the regular briefing held on the 21st at the Osong Disease Control Headquarters in Chungbuk, "The domestic COVID-19 situation involves a relatively large-scale cluster outbreak caused by a single exposure."

Director Jung stated, "It is still under investigation where the Shincheonji Church was infected," adding, "The cause is clear in that the spread is occurring with a certain connection." This aligns with the statement made earlier that morning by Park Neung-hoo, head of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters, who said, "It is the early stage of community transmission, and the spread is centered around a specific group, so the cause is clear."

The health authorities are also investigating whether the Shincheonji Daegu Church had any overseas exchanges.

Director Jung said, "I understand that the Shincheonji Church has branches in China and other countries," and added, "We are continuing to investigate whether there was any exchange with places classified as COVID-19 outbreak regions, such as Hubei Province."