Kim Eo-jun Reported for Gathering of 5, Total of '7 People' Present

A total of 7 people confirmed in Mapo-gu on-site investigation
If violation is determined, a fine of 100,000 KRW per person will be imposed

Broadcaster Kim Eo-jun is seen talking with companions at a cafe in Mapo-gu, with his mask lowered on his chin. (Photo by Online Community Capture)

[Asia Economy Reporter Han Jinju] An investigation into allegations that broadcaster Kim Eo-jun violated quarantine rules prohibiting gatherings of five or more people confirmed that there were two additional individuals present.

On the 20th, Mapo-gu District in Seoul confirmed through an on-site investigation of COVID-19 quarantine rules involving Kim Eo-jun, who hosts TBS FM's 'Kim Eo-jun's News Factory,' that a total of seven people, including Kim, had gathered.

Previously, photos showing Kim with a mask hanging on his chin while talking at a cafe in Sangam-dong only showed five people, but the on-site investigation revealed that two more people were present.

Mapo-gu is investigating on the grounds that Kim and others may have violated the mask-wearing order and the ban on private gatherings of five or more people, which are currently in effect under the Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Act. If found to have violated quarantine rules, a fine of 100,000 KRW per person will be imposed, and the establishment will be fined 1,500,000 KRW.

The investigation is not yet complete, and procedures such as sending notification letters and hearing opinions remain, so whether fines will be imposed and on whom have not been decided.

In response, TBS stated that it was a work-related meeting and not a 'private gathering.'

In a statement, TBS said, "Immediately after the live broadcast ended, the News Factory production team held a work meeting for broadcast monitoring and preparation for the next day's broadcast," adding, "Although it was not a private gathering, we sincerely apologize for violating quarantine rules."

According to the standards announced by the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters, work-related meetings are not considered private gatherings. However, if attendees have meals or other activities after the meeting, those are considered private gatherings unrelated to work, and the ban on gatherings of five or more people applies.