[On-site Video] "Is COVID-19 Spreading Again?" Citizens Visiting Screening Clinics Amid 'Department Store-Originated Spread'

[Asia Economy Reporter Han Seung-gon, PD Yoon Jin-geun] "I thought COVID was over, but it’s starting again."

The Hyundai Department Store Trade Center branch in Samseong-dong, Gangnam, Seoul, closed its doors to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This measure was taken after two employees in the department store’s food section were initially confirmed positive on the 4th, with the number of confirmed cases rising to 48. The department store decided on a “temporary full closure of the Samseong branch” over two days, the 7th and 8th.

On the 8th, citizens near the department store visited COVID-19 screening clinics to get tested in preparation for the renewed spread of COVID-19. On the same day, local government officials, including Gangnam District Mayor Jung Soon-gyun, visited the site and made every effort to prevent further spread of the virus.

Mayor Jung said, "Currently, many confirmed cases are emerging," adding, "What is fortunate is that among about 9,750 people tested on the 7th, only 33 were confirmed positive." He emphasized, "Therefore, it is estimated that there are almost no infections among general customers other than the employees."

Citizens met at the screening clinics expressed anxiety about the renewed spread of COVID-19. A man in his 30s, office worker Mr. A, said, "Recently, there have been many close contacts in places including daycare centers, so my entire family got tested," adding, "I’m very worried because I have children."

A teenager said, "Due to COVID, exams have been postponed, and I’m worried," adding, "I’m trying to avoid contact with others and going out as much as possible, and I hope COVID ends soon."

Mr. Kim, a 30-something office worker, said, "I always hope COVID ends, but with the Delta variant spreading, I don’t know when it will end," expressing frustration. He added, "Living day by day is hard because of COVID. I just want to get vaccinated quickly."