Government to File Charges Today Against International Student Who 'Passed Quarantine with Antipyretics' (Update)

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] The government has decided to take legal action against an American student who took antipyretics to hide symptoms and passed quarantine.

Kim Kang-lip, the first chief coordinator of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters, stated at a regular briefing held at the government Sejong Complex on the 10th, "It is judged that the student intentionally provided false information by stating 'no symptoms' on the health status questionnaire submitted upon entry, and the Incheon Airport Quarantine Office plans to file a complaint."

The student entered through Incheon Airport on the 25th of last month, passed quarantine, and was diagnosed with COVID-19 on the following day, the 26th. Although he had suspected COVID-19 symptoms such as cough, sputum, and muscle pain since the 23rd of the same month, he took antipyretics and passed quarantine during departure from the United States and entry into Korea.

The government explained that since the student did not properly disclose suspected symptoms, this constitutes a violation of the Quarantine Act. Chief Coordinator Kim said, "At that time, as a subject of special entry procedures, he was obligated to complete the health status questionnaire and undergo quarantine inspection and diagnostic testing based on it."

He added, "Hiding symptoms by taking antipyretics and passing quarantine is a selfish and irresponsible act that spreads the risk of infection to people who boarded the same plane and those who may come into contact during subsequent movements," emphasizing, "Please keep in mind that this is not only a violation of the Quarantine Act but also an act that threatens the safety of the community."