Local Infection '0' in Gwangjin-gu, Thoroughly Reinforced Quarantine System

Mandatory Mask Wearing in Multi-use Facilities, Reimbursement Claims for Violations... Designation and Operation of 'Safe Restaurants' Complying with Quarantine Guidelines

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Jong-il] Gwangjin-gu (District Mayor Kim Seon-gap) is reorganizing its quarantine system in response to the recent increase in cluster infections at multi-use facilities such as multi-level marketing companies, churches, and buffets, mainly in the metropolitan area.

The confirmed cases in Gwangjin-gu total 17, including 7 imported cases, 6 from Itaewon, and 4 from other regions, with no local infections reported.

Accordingly, the district is establishing a more thorough quarantine system to prevent the spread of local infections amid the renewed crisis.

First, starting from the 1st, Gwangjin-gu will announce an administrative order mandating mask-wearing at 8,874 multi-use facilities within the district.

The targets include 12 types of high-risk facilities designated by the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters located within the district, facilities subject to strengthened quarantine measures in the metropolitan area (PC rooms, academies), public hygiene business facilities, and food service establishments.

Visitors to multi-use facilities must wear masks at all times, and business owners and all employees are required to wear masks and comply with quarantine guidelines when serving customers and preparing food.

Violations of these measures may result in closure orders and legal action. Visitors who use multi-use facilities without masks and business owners or employees who fail to comply with quarantine rules and are confirmed positive for COVID-19 will be subject to claims for damages.

Additionally, the district will designate and operate ‘Safe Restaurants’ targeting hygienic establishments that comply with daily quarantine guidelines.

The essential requirements for Safe Restaurant designation are: ▲ provision of utensils for serving food or individual trays ▲ installation of hand sanitizers or conducting disinfection at least once daily ▲ employees wearing masks while cooking and serving customers.

The designation process involves the responsible department reviewing the requirements and selecting compliant establishments. Selected businesses will receive a Safe Restaurant designation plaque and support with hygiene and disinfectant supplies.

The district also plans to promote local Safe Restaurants and encourage their use among public officials and public institutions.

Furthermore, residents will voluntarily form and operate ‘COVID-19 Resident Safety Keepers.’ These Keepers will visit multi-use facilities to promote mandatory mask-wearing and adherence to preventive measures, playing a role in establishing a healthy distancing culture such as ‘distancing in daily life.’

Kim Seon-gap, Mayor of Gwangjin-gu, stated, “There have been no local infections in Gwangjin-gu to date. This was possible thanks to the dedication of medical staff, voluntary participation of volunteers, donations from residents, and the active cooperation of all citizens.” He added, “Gwangjin-gu will not let its guard down and will do its best to prevent the spread of local infections. We encourage residents to come forward with any good ideas for quarantine at any time.”