[On-site Video] "Will COVID-19 Be Okay?" Easing Social Distancing... Citizens and Small Business Owners Feel Mixed Hope and Concern

[Asia Economy Reporter Han Seung-gon, PD Yoon Jin-geun] “First of all, I want to go around without wearing a mask,” “I hope more customers come.”

The government announced that it will apply a new social distancing system starting from the 1st of next month. Restrictions on private gatherings will be eased, and operating hours for multi-use facilities are expected to be extended.

Citizens expressed anticipation but also revealed concerns that COVID-19 could spread again. On the 20th, Mr. A, a citizen in his 60s whom we met around Euljiro and Myeongdong in Jung-gu, Seoul, said, “I agree with the quarantine authorities’ plan to ease social distancing.” However, he added, “Since COVID-19 could spread, measures to respond quickly should also be prepared simultaneously.”

Office worker B (25) said, “I really welcome the easing of social distancing,” adding, “It was difficult to meet friends or have company dinners.” Regarding concerns about the spread of COVID-19, he said, “Vaccinations are continuing, so it should be fine.” He emphasized, “If the ban on gatherings of 8 or more people is eased, psychological constraints will decrease, and I expect more customers to come.”

Self-employed business owners also showed hope that the easing of social distancing could relieve their sales slump. One self-employed person said, “I am a bit worried about the spread of COVID-19, but still, easing social distancing is good for business.”

Another self-employed person, Mr. C, said, “From a business perspective, the new policy is good,” adding, “Whether it’s 6 or 8 people, easing restrictions helps business a lot.” He continued, “Sales have been declining throughout 2020 and up to now in 2021. Although I fear the spread of COVID-19, since my livelihood depends on it, I welcome the easing of social distancing policies.”

Meanwhile, according to the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters of the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the new social distancing system consists of four levels. Level 1 has no restrictions on private gatherings; Level 2 prohibits private gatherings of 9 or more people; Level 3 prohibits gatherings of 5 or more; and Level 4 prohibits private gatherings of 3 or more people after 6 p.m.

Minister of Health and Welfare Kwon Deok-cheol explained, “The current epidemic situation is being managed stably, and vaccinations are proceeding smoothly with up to 14 million people vaccinated. However, for local governments concerned about a rapid relaxation of quarantine tension due to the system reorganization, quarantine measures such as restrictions on private gatherings will be adjusted, and a two-week implementation period will be set.”