Prime Minister Jeong: "Sequential School Reopening from April 9... Considering Online Format" (Update)

Prime Minister Jeong Sye-kyun

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwangho Lee] Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun stated on the 31st regarding the school reopening schedule amid the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), "To reduce confusion, considering the preparation status and children's acceptance, it is reasonable to start reopening schools sequentially from the middle of next week, April 9."

At the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters (CDSCH) meeting held at the Government Seoul Office on the same day, Prime Minister Chung said, "Considering the annual number of school days and the entrance exam schedule, it is not easy to give up children's right to learn and postpone school reopening blindly, so we are strongly considering online school reopening as an alternative."

He added, "Thorough preparation is required," and "At a minimum, all children must be guaranteed devices and internet access, and an adaptation period will likely be necessary."

He also mentioned, "The exam and entrance exam schedules will be adjusted accordingly," implying that the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) will also be postponed.

Prime Minister Chung explained, "Many people believe it is still difficult to send children to school, and the evaluations of quarantine experts are no different," adding, "In a situation where a considerable number of new cases occur daily, it is difficult to guarantee children's safety."

He continued, "There is also concern that infections could spread from schools to homes and communities," and said, "We have mobilized all quarantine capabilities to significantly reduce the risk of infection, but we have not reached a level where children can attend school with peace of mind. I regret this point."