Full-scale Discussion on 'Post-Omicron' Stabilization Phase... Decision at Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters on the 20th

Decision on Stabilization Phase Amid Absence of Quarantine Control Tower
"Ensuring No Leakage in Political Judgments"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Young-won] On the 20th, the quarantine authorities are scheduled to discuss and announce whether to transition to the 'post-Omicron' stabilization phase at the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters meeting.

On the 16th, Park Hyang, head of the Quarantine General Division at the Central Accident Response Headquarters, stated regarding the stabilization phase, "We expect to announce it on the 20th after gathering opinions from experts and local governments and consulting with the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters."

Earlier, the government announced a plan to downgrade the COVID-19 infectious disease classification to Level 2 on the 25th of last month, followed by a four-week transition period before moving to the stabilization phase. According to the government's plan, the transition to the stabilization phase is scheduled for the 23rd.

Once transitioned to the stabilization phase, the mandatory isolation for confirmed COVID-19 cases will be lifted, and support for living expenses related to isolation will end. The medical system will also be transformed to allow face-to-face treatment of COVID-19 patients at all hospitals and clinics.

On the day, Park responded to the opinion that "there are criticisms about discussing the transition to the stabilization phase without a properly established quarantine control tower," saying, "The current discussion structure is functioning properly, and we are doing our best to prevent any leaks in political judgment." Currently, the Prime Minister position is vacant, and the new Minister of Health and Welfare has not yet been appointed.

Son Young-rae, head of the Social Strategy Division at the Central Accident Response Headquarters, said, "There is some delay in decision-making as several leadership positions at the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters are changing," but added, "Since it is time for review, we will begin the review carefully to approach the matter in a way that causes minimal problems for the public."