[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Seul-gi] Amid the alarming spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Seoul metropolitan area, some conservative groups have announced plans for a large-scale rally in downtown Seoul on August 15, Liberation Day. In response, former Dongyang University professor Jin Joong-kwon criticized on the 14th, saying, "Even if it's not because of COVID-19, such events only add the image of 'crazy people' to conservatives."
On that day, former professor Jin wrote on his Facebook, "This is neither politics nor religion; it is simply madness."
He urged, "Supporters of the United Future Party should not attend the event tomorrow (15th). People from all over the country will come to that rally, and there is a risk that they will spread the COVID-19 virus nationwide after returning home." He added, "I hope the United Future Party requests Pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon’s side to cancel the event tomorrow."
He continued, "These are crazy people who believe they can stop COVID-19 through prayer, so with their religious madness and passion, they will confidently spread COVID-19 everywhere." He argued, "Since the rally cannot be stopped by force, all participants who cause infections later must be tracked down to the last person and held financially responsible."
He added, "The sane people should not have to pay the price for the crazy acts of crazy people."
Earlier, 30 people tested positive for COVID-19 at Sarang Jeil Church in Seongbuk-gu, Seoul. Although the church is currently closed, Pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon of Sarang Jeil Church is reportedly planning to proceed with the Liberation Day rally.
Meanwhile, health authorities have urged people to refrain from attending rallies due to concerns over the spread of COVID-19 cluster infections.
Jung Eun-kyung, head of the Central Disease Control Headquarters (CDCH), said at a regular briefing that day, "The Seoul metropolitan area is in a serious situation where a large-scale COVID-19 outbreak could continue. We ask that people refrain from attending religious services and rallies during the holiday period from Liberation Day to the 17th."
Director Jung expressed concern, saying, "We need to get through this critical moment well to determine the scale of the outbreak. The outcome may vary depending on the efforts made over the weekend."
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