Prime Minister Jeong: "Adjust Social Distancing to Level 2 in the Capital Region for 2 Weeks" (Update)

"Special Quarantine Period Set for Two Weeks Starting from the 28th"

Prime Minister Jeong Sye-kyun

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwangho Lee] Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun stated on the 13th, "We plan to adjust social distancing in the metropolitan area to Level 2 for the next two weeks."

At the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters (CDSCH) meeting held at the Government Seoul Office on the same day to respond to the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), Prime Minister Chung said, "This decision was made considering social fatigue and the effectiveness of the previously implemented quarantine measures."

However, Prime Minister Chung emphasized, "The holiday period including Chuseok and Hangeul Day is expected to be the biggest challenge for COVID-19 prevention in the second half of the year," adding, "Accordingly, the government will designate the two weeks starting from September 28 as a special quarantine period and prepare strong nationwide quarantine reinforcement measures in advance."

He continued, "During the special quarantine period that includes the Chuseok holiday, National Foundation Day, and Hangeul Day, although it may be somewhat difficult, I ask all citizens to actively cooperate with quarantine efforts with one heart and one mind."

Furthermore, he requested, "Recently, some lodging facilities in resort areas have been receiving many reservations during the Chuseok holiday period. For this Chuseok, please actively participate in efforts to refrain from travel to prevent the spread of COVID-19."

According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, the number of new COVID-19 confirmed cases as of midnight on the day was 121. This marks the 31st consecutive day of triple-digit confirmed cases. By region, there were 31 cases in Seoul, 32 in Gyeonggi, and 14 in Daegu, with many new cases occurring in the metropolitan area.