Korea Racing Authority Extends Suspension of Racetrack Operations for 2 Weeks Due to COVID-19

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyunjung] The Korea Racing Authority announced on the 26th that it has decided to extend the temporary suspension of operations at nationwide business sites, including Gwacheon Race Park, for two more weeks until the 12th of next month to block the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), which is spreading nationwide.

Accordingly, all 111 races scheduled to be held over 2 weeks and 6 days at Seoul, Busan-Gyeongnam, and Jeju Racecourses have been canceled, and an additional suspension of operations has been implemented at 30 branches nationwide, including racehorse farms and other business sites.

The Korea Racing Authority had previously suspended operations at all 36 business sites nationwide starting from the 23rd and simultaneously conducted special quarantine activities at the business sites and surrounding areas.

During the temporary suspension period, special quarantine activities will continue to be supported at nationwide business sites and surrounding areas. In particular, a support project for preventive supplies and essential living kits for vulnerable rural groups will also be carried out concurrently.

Additionally, consultations with related organizations will be conducted to minimize damage to racing-related businesses, including support for tenant companies affected by the suspension of racing and the establishment of measures to preserve races.

Kim Naksoon, Chairman of the Korea Racing Authority, stated, "The decision on whether to hold races in the future will be made cautiously through monitoring the spread of COVID-19 and checking our own quarantine system." He added, "Furthermore, we will strengthen recovery efforts and infection prevention activities by providing preventive supplies and essential living kits to vulnerable rural groups affected by the spread of COVID-19."