[Breaking] "Religious Freedom Violated... On-site Worship Tomorrow" Busan Christian Council Protest

As confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) are rapidly increasing, on the morning of the 18th, quarantine officials are conducting disinfection work at Yoido Full Gospel Church in Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul. Yoido Full Gospel Church announced that all services will be switched to online for the next two weeks. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Heo Midam] As Busan City banned non-face-to-face church services as part of strengthening social distancing to Level 2, the Busan Christian Council decided to proceed with in-person services tomorrow, claiming it infringes on religious freedom.

The Busan Christian Council (Bugichong) held an emergency meeting on the 22nd and sent an official letter to 16 district Christian councils and about 1,800 affiliated local churches in Busan, announcing the decision to hold on-site services (in-person services) and urging the withdrawal of Busan City's administrative order.

Bugichong explained that they will hold on-site services while strictly adhering to the seven government quarantine rules (wearing masks, temperature checks, use of hand sanitizer, maintaining 1-2 meters distance between attendees, disinfection and ventilation before and after gatherings, prohibition of group meals, and keeping a visitor log).

The organization stated that Busan City's administrative order violates the freedom of religion and assembly guaranteed by the Constitution of the Republic of Korea and plans to file a suspension of execution lawsuit.