[Full Text] Statement by Prime Minister Jeong Sye-kyun on COVID-19 Situation

Prime Minister Jeong Sye-kyun

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwangho Lee] Prime Minister Jeong Sye-gyun issued a statement on the 22nd regarding the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) situation, stating, "The government judges that the infection is entering a serious phase and is doing its utmost to prevent further spread."

He especially emphasized, "We earnestly ask that gatherings in confined indoor spaces such as religious events, or even outdoor events where many people gather closely, be refrained from for the time being, or that alternative methods such as online participation be considered."

The following is the full text of the statement.

Dear respected citizens,

I understand that many of you are deeply concerned due to COVID-19.

As Prime Minister, I feel a great sense of responsibility and sincerely apologize to all citizens.

Recently, confirmed COVID-19 cases have rapidly increased, mainly in certain regions.

The government judges that the infection is entering a more serious phase and is making every effort to prevent its spread.

In particular, under close cooperation with Daegu Metropolitan City and Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, we are implementing strong response measures. Nationwide, we are establishing cooperative systems with local governments and the medical community to prepare for community transmission of COVID-19. COVID-19 is characterized by high transmissibility in the early mild stage but has a low fatality rate.

If detected early and isolated promptly for treatment, it is a disease that can be fully cured.

The government is focusing efforts to prevent vulnerable groups such as patients with underlying conditions and the elderly from becoming infected with COVID-19.

The government is responding transparently by disclosing all situations related to COVID-19.

If citizens also report all situations regarding COVID-19 as they are, the virus will have nowhere to hide.

We especially ask that you refrain from gatherings in confined indoor spaces such as religious events, or even outdoor events where many people gather closely, for the time being, or consider alternative methods such as online participation.

Furthermore, acts that obstruct national quarantine activities, illegal acts such as hoarding hygiene products, and excessive mass gatherings that increase public anxiety will be dealt with firmly according to law and principles.

Dear respected citizens,

We must and can overcome COVID-19. Our advanced medical system is among the best in the world. We have also accumulated sufficient experience in responding to infectious diseases.

We have already overcome SARS and MERS in the past.

With the government's efforts and the cooperation of the people, we can also overcome this COVID-19 outbreak.

We ask all citizens to trust and cooperate with our government and medical staff. Do not be overly fearful, and please strictly follow hygiene rules such as handwashing and cough etiquette.

Together with the citizens, we will surely overcome this situation.

Thank you.