Authorities Confirm Park Outings Are Safe with 2m Social Distancing (Update)

On the 22nd, when the government urged strict social distancing to overcome COVID-19, citizens are enjoying the warm spring weather at Yeouido Hangang Park in Seoul. Photo by Moon Honam munonam@

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Heung-soon] As social distancing is emphasized to prevent the community spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), health authorities have stressed that outings where a distance of more than 2 meters can be maintained are not dangerous.

On the afternoon of the 22nd, Kwon Jun-wook, Deputy Head of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters for COVID-19, said at a regular briefing, "Outdoor activities such as park outings involve natural distancing of more than 2 meters, so there is little risk," adding, "Such activities with sufficient distancing can be carried out safely."

Deputy Head Kwon added, "However, even outdoor activities that involve gatherings of many people in close proximity, such as events, performances, or assemblies, are obviously high risk," and "Those do not fall under safe outdoor activities."

Meanwhile, the government and health authorities have decided to implement strengthened social distancing measures for 15 days from today until April 5, as cluster infections continue in domestic religious facilities and workplaces. Authorities have requested that people refrain from going out except for purchasing essential daily necessities, visiting medical institutions, or commuting to and from work.