Kia Motors Gwangju Plant Suspends Weekday Shift Operations Due to COVID-19 Outbreak

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kiho Sung] Kia Motors has decided to halt operations of the 1st shift at its Gwangju plant on the 30th following a confirmed case of COVID-19 among its workers. This is the first time a COVID-19 case has been reported at Kia's Gwangju plant.

According to the automotive industry on the day, Kia will suspend operations at Gwangju Plant's 1st and 2nd factories, as well as the Hanam Busu Special Factory. However, the 3rd factory, which produces Bongo trucks, will continue normal operations.

The decision to stop operations was made based on the assessment that an increase in confirmed cases requires expanded epidemiological investigations and diagnostic testing. The 1st shift working hours are from 7:00 AM to 3:40 PM.

Earlier, a production worker identified as Mr. A at the Gwangju plant tested positive for COVID-19 on the morning of the 29th. Subsequently, two more individuals who had contact with Mr. A also tested positive. It is known that the confirmed employees recently had a meal gathering together.

Health authorities added that they identified and tested employees who had contact with the confirmed cases at the plant, cafeteria, and commuter buses, and conducted thorough disinfection measures.