Authorities: "President Moon's attendance at G7 Summit is an 'essential official duty'... Priority vaccination possible"

"AZ Vaccine Elderly Vaccination Status Under Data Collection... Scheduled for Discussion at the Vaccination Expert Committee"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Ji-hee] The quarantine authorities stated that President Moon Jae-in's departure for attending the G7 summit is considered an essential official duty, allowing him to receive priority vaccination.

Jung Kyung-sil, head of the COVID-19 Vaccination Management Division at the Vaccination Response Promotion Team, said at the regular briefing, "I understand that the President has expressed his intention to receive the AstraZeneca vaccine, as he is over 65 years old. Regarding vaccination of the elderly with the AstraZeneca vaccine, we are currently collecting clinical trial and research results from other countries such as the UK, and once sufficient data is accumulated, the decision will be made after discussions by the Vaccination Expert Committee."

She added, "If the President receives the vaccination, it is because he needs to depart from the Blue House for the G7 summit," and "When the implementation plan was announced last January, it was stated that exceptions for priority vaccination would be made for those traveling abroad to perform essential official duties related to national interests."

Jung explained that as vaccinations continue, public trust in the vaccine will naturally increase. She said, "Not only the President but also the increasing number of citizens receiving vaccinations safely without adverse effects will naturally raise public confidence," and "Plans for vaccinating the elderly over 65 are currently being prepared, and vaccinations are expected to take place in the second quarter." However, which vaccine will be administered and the order of vaccination have not yet been decided.