Tired of 'COVID-19', Now I’m Ready to Accept You

Talking About Coexistence in the 'With Corona' Era

[Asia Economy Reporter Jin-kyung Lee] These days, as the second dose vaccination rate exceeds 70%, there are talks about gradually implementing ‘With Corona’ soon. There are concerns that it might be premature given the risk of breakthrough infections from variant viruses even after completing vaccination. Is it really okay to introduce ‘With Corona’? Let’s explore the background and reasons for choosing ‘With Corona’ and see how countries that have already implemented it are proceeding.

‘With Corona’ is a concept emerging as the COVID-19 crisis has prolonged due to the appearance of highly contagious variants and breakthrough infections. It refers to the recognition that completely ending the novel coronavirus infection is difficult, and thus changing perceptions and quarantine systems to prepare for and pursue coexistence with COVID-19. Due to the difficulty of completely eradicating COVID-19, it means transitioning to a new quarantine system that lowers the fatality rate rather than suppressing the number of confirmed cases, aiming to reduce public fatigue from long lockdowns and social distancing restrictions, economic downturn, medical expenses, and social cost losses. Some countries with high vaccination rates are currently implementing ‘With Corona’ policies, and discussions are underway domestically about introducing such policies for economic recovery.

Which countries are testing ‘With Corona’?

Many countries worldwide are gradually implementing ‘With Corona’. This is a measure to reduce public fatigue, economic losses, and social cost burdens as the COVID-19 crisis prolongs. Let’s look at countries that have introduced ‘With Corona’ policies such as easing quarantine and lifting social distancing since July this year despite the spread of the Delta variant.

United Kingdom, life before COVID-19

On July 19, 2021, the UK declared ‘Freedom Day’ and announced the full lifting of lockdowns, removing most high-intensity quarantine measures. Restrictions on gatherings and facility operations were lifted, and although mask-wearing is strongly recommended in crowded indoor facilities like public transportation, indoor mask mandates were abolished, allowing entry to performance halls and clubs without masks. Operating hours and capacity limits for multi-use facilities were also removed. Except for travel restrictions abroad, life has returned to the pre-COVID-19 state.

France and Germany are showing movements to gradually normalize quarantine systems, though not as extensively as the UK.

Denmark, the fastest in Europe to start daily life recovery policies

Denmark declared COVID-19 no longer a serious threat to society and fully abolished quarantine rules as of September 10. People can freely use multi-use facilities like clubs and restaurants without vaccine passports (proof of vaccination), and masks are not required on public transportation. Masks are only required at airports, hospitals, and COVID-19 testing centers. Large gatherings are allowed without restrictions, showing a return to pre-pandemic life. Denmark, with a population of about 5.8 million, experienced a major outbreak with over 3,000 daily cases earlier this year, but the infection rate has dropped to 0.7% and continues to decline, reportedly stabilizing.

Singapore, the world’s first ‘With Corona’ plan

Before introducing ‘With Corona’, Singapore implemented a strict ‘Zero COVID’ policy and is one of the countries with the highest vaccination rates worldwide. With 80% of the population fully vaccinated, Singapore announced the world’s first ‘With Corona’ roadmap in June. From August, dining in restaurants was allowed only for fully vaccinated people, gatherings of up to five people were permitted, and some regulations were eased to allow cultural events with over 500 attendees. However, due to a surge in cases from the highly transmissible Delta variant, further easing was halted, and the government stated it would consider reintroducing quarantine measures if the spread does not subside.

Chile, recovery and reopening of tourism

With successful vaccination, 87% of the population has completed the second dose, and some booster shots have begun. Recently, Chile’s health authorities approved the use of the Chinese COVID-19 vaccine ‘Sinovac’ for children aged six and above and announced vaccinations would start soon. Despite the threat of the Delta variant, the Chilean government decided to allow foreign tourists to enter from October 1, coinciding with the Southern Hemisphere’s summer, with a five-day quarantine for incoming tourists.

South Africa, beginning to ease restrictions

As the number of confirmed cases decreases, some quarantine restrictions have been eased. The nighttime curfew was shortened to 11 p.m. to 4 a.m., and the allowed number of people for large gatherings increased to 250 indoors and 500 outdoors. Alcohol sales restrictions were also relaxed. Previously, strict social distancing was maintained, banning all gatherings except funerals, so this is a significant easing. The country has secured vaccines for the entire adult population, with one-quarter having received at least the first dose. The full vaccination rate is 13%, and as the Delta variant outbreak continues, the government urges citizens to adhere strictly to quarantine rules.

Thailand, relatively low vaccination rate but easing quarantine

Thailand’s vaccination rate is relatively low compared to neighboring countries, with only 19% of the population fully vaccinated, below the global average of 30.7%. Although infection rates remain serious, Thailand is easing quarantine and implementing ‘With Corona’ to revive the tourism industry. Since July 1, Phuket has allowed vaccinated foreign travelers to enter without quarantine. From July 15, this was expanded to nearby areas like Ko Samui. From October, major tourist destinations including the capital Bangkok, Hua Hin, Pattaya, and Chiang Mai plan to open to foreign travelers. Thailand previously implemented high-intensity quarantine measures close to a nationwide lockdown but has experienced severe Delta variant outbreaks this year, drawing attention from many countries regarding its ‘With Corona’ implementation.