Suncheon City Launches Comprehensive Survey of Shincheonji Followers

First Survey Expected to be Completed by the 27th for 4,391 Participants

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Chunsu] Suncheon City, Jeollanam-do, announced on the 27th that it secured a list of 4,391 Shincheonji followers from the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on the afternoon of the 26th and began a full investigation to prevent the spread of COVID-19 nationwide.

The investigation will be conducted by 48 team leader-level city hall employees via phone starting the morning of the 27th, with Shincheonji representatives present, following a questionnaire.

The investigation first verifies identity and then inquires whether the individual recently visited the Shincheonji Church in Daegu or Daenam Hospital in Cheongdo, Daegu, and whether they attended worship services or gatherings at local churches or study centers.

The full investigation aims to identify whether the individual has recently experienced fever or respiratory symptoms and if any family members have similar symptoms. In cases of symptomatic individuals, self-quarantine will be prioritized, and guidance will be provided to promptly receive medical examination at screening clinics.

Even if no symptoms are present, individuals are advised to refrain from going out, and those in high-risk occupations such as medical institutions and social welfare facilities are recommended to self-quarantine. After the first investigation, symptoms will be regularly monitored, and testing will be recommended based on symptom development.

For those who cannot be contacted or whose whereabouts are unknown during the full investigation, a joint response will be conducted with the police rapid response team.

Suncheon City obtained security pledges from the participating public officials to prohibit leakage or use of the list for purposes other than the investigation to protect personal information. Additionally, the used list will be destroyed once the COVID-19 situation ends.

A Suncheon City official stated, “Early response to COVID-19 is crucial, so we will do our best to quickly and accurately identify cases and ensure that symptomatic individuals self-quarantine and receive medical care at screening clinics so that citizens can live with peace of mind.”