North Korea on High Alert Over Domestic COVID-19 Spread: "Not Wearing Masks Is a Crime"

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Haeyoung] As COVID-19 cases rapidly spread in South Korea, North Korea urged its residents to remain vigilant.

On the afternoon of the 22nd, Korean Central TV swiftly reported the outbreak status in South Korea as of the morning during its regular broadcast. The outlet stated, "Confirmed cases with unknown infection routes have occurred one after another in the heart of Seoul," adding, "Residents' anxiety is spreading uncontrollably."

North Korean media have been reporting in real-time on the outbreak and response status in China and South Korea daily. Due to poor healthcare infrastructure, North Korea is highly sensitive to the spread of COVID-19 in neighboring countries.

The Rodong Sinmun guided the correct way to wear masks and urged mask-wearing outdoors and in public places, stating that failing to wear a mask would be "committing a crime against the country," emphasizing the importance of mask use to prevent COVID-19.