President Moon: "Because of churches, public safety and health can collapse in an instant"

"Respect Religious Freedom While Strengthening Church Quarantine Measures" Directive

President Moon Jae-in is sending a video message at the 'Japanese Military Comfort Women Victims Memorial Day' event held on the 14th at the National Manghyang Hill in Cheonan, Chungnam, a day before the 75th Liberation Day.

President Moon Jae-in said on the 14th regarding the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) originating from churches, "The government's quarantine efforts centered on the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency and the safety and health of the people could be instantly undermined by some churches."

President Moon made this remark through instructions on the same day, saying, "Confirmed cases are increasing again due to cluster infections centered around some churches," White House spokesperson Kang Min-seok conveyed in a written briefing.

President Moon instructed, "Since the situation is serious, take measures to strengthen quarantine at churches while respecting religious freedom."

Among the 85 domestic confirmed COVID-19 cases reported in one day, 46 were related to churches. In particular, a cluster infection occurred at Pastor Jeon Gwang-hoon's Sarang Jeil Church in Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, resulting in 12 new confirmed cases. According to Seoul City, about 1,800 people related to this church have been identified for testing so far, and the number may increase.

Despite this situation, some churches have announced large-scale rallies around Gwanghwamun on the 15th. These churches have stated their intention to proceed with the rallies, ignoring administrative orders from Seoul City. It is also reported that believers will come up by chartered buses from provinces, raising concerns about a nationwide resurgence of COVID-19.