Minister Kang Kyung-hwa to Brief Diplomatic Corps in Korea on 6th About Government's COVID-19 Response... Plans to Urge Restraint on Excessive Measures

Second since the 25th of last month

Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha is responding to reporters' questions while on her way to meet the rapid response team formed to support Korean nationals quarantined in Vietnam due to COVID-19 prevention measures at Terminal 1 departure hall of Incheon International Airport on the 5th. Photo by Moon Ho-nam munonam@

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] On the 6th, Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha will hold a briefing session for the diplomatic corps in Korea to explain the Korean government's response to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) and will also urge them not to impose excessive restrictions.

On the 5th, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Kim In-cheol stated at a regular briefing, "Through the briefing, Minister Kang will explain that we are making an all-out government-wide effort to block the spread of COVID-19 and will repeatedly request that excessive restrictions not be imposed on our citizens."

This is the second briefing session for the diplomatic corps in Korea since the 25th of last month. On the 25th of last month, Deputy Minister Kim Geon had asked the 103 foreign diplomatic missions in Korea to refrain from excessive measures such as entry restrictions on Koreans.

Spokesperson Kim explained, "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is continuing close response efforts by focusing all its efforts on the COVID-19-related headquarters and overseas missions, including dispatching a government rapid response team to Vietnam today."

Regarding Australia, which has banned the entry of Koreans starting today, prior notice was given. The Australian federal government added Korea to the list of countries subject to entry bans due to COVID-19. All foreigners coming from Korea are subject to this.

Spokesperson Kim said, "Prior notice was given," and added, "It is clearly a deeply regrettable measure, and the government plans to closely consult with Australian authorities to minimize inconvenience to our citizens, including the prompt withdrawal of this measure."