Prime Minister Jeong: "Democratic Labor Union's General Strike Rally Must Be Immediately Withdrawn"

Prime Minister Jeong Sye-kyun

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwangho Lee] Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun on the 25th expressed deep concern regarding the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions' (KCTU) general strike, stating, "Considering the recent momentum of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), it is very worrisome. Especially with the college entrance exam (Suneung) just around the corner, I urge the immediate withdrawal of the planned rallies out of consideration for the desperate feelings of the examinees and their parents."

At the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters (CDSCH) meeting held at the Government Seoul Office that day, Prime Minister Chung said, "Today, the KCTU is pushing forward with a general strike and rallies nationwide."

He urged, "The National Police Agency and local governments should thoroughly manage the situation on-site to prevent any violations of quarantine rules during the rallies, and take strict measures according to law and principles against any violations."

Prime Minister Chung explained, "Yesterday, the social distancing levels were raised in the metropolitan area and Honam region. In particular, Seoul, where the spread is severe, has designated the period until the end of the year as the 'Emergency Pause Period for Ten Million Citizens,' implementing strengthened quarantine measures such as reducing public transportation operations and banning gatherings of more than 10 people."

He continued, "I believe Seoul's decision was bold and timely, and I ask for the understanding and participation of all citizens. I also urge other local governments to actively implement precise quarantine measures tailored to their regional situations."

Furthermore, he added, "With only a week left until the college entrance exam, we must all, as parents, protect and care for the examinees so they can safely take the exam in a secure environment. I ask for special attention and cooperation from each household, school, and community to ensure that examinees are not exposed to infection risks until the exam is over."

Prime Minister Chung also mentioned, "Recently, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that about 70% of COVID-19 transmissions occur from asymptomatic individuals, and that wearing masks is the most effective way to prevent infection. Studies conducted in Thailand and China also revealed that wearing masks alone can reduce the risk of infection by nearly 80%. I once again urge all citizens to thoroughly practice mask-wearing in daily life."