[Asia Economy, reporter Lee Jungyun] Nightlife establishments in Gangnam, Seoul that were secretly operating despite a ban on gatherings have been caught by the police.
According to the police on January 21, the Suseo Police Station in Seoul apprehended 41 people, including the owner, employees, and customers, at an entertainment bar in Yeoksam-dong, Gangnam-gu, around 11:30 p.m. the previous day, for violating the Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act.
The police responded to a 112 report stating, "An entertainment establishment is operating," and requested that the door be opened. When the establishment did not comply, they entered the premises with support from the district office and fire authorities.
On the same day, around 10:00 p.m., the Gangnam Police Station in Seoul apprehended 20 people, including the owner and customers, at an entertainment bar in Samseong-dong, charging them with violating the Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act. The establishment had frequently been reported for suspected illegal operations. The police blocked possible escape routes and demanded that the door be opened. After a standoff, the bar eventually complied and opened the door.
Meanwhile, starting January 18, some quarantine measures for multi-use facilities such as cafes and karaoke rooms have been eased due to the relaxation of social distancing rules. However, the ban on operating five types of nightlife establishments-including entertainment bars, karaoke bars, hunting pubs, and hold'em pubs-remains in effect.
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