Psy's Side Finally Takes Additional Measures... "Providing 3 More 'KF94 Masks' to Hmphok Show Audience"

The scene from Psy's 'Hmph Show' concert held in 2018 at the auxiliary stadium of Jamsil Sports Complex, Songpa-gu, Seoul. / Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Na Ye-eun] When health authorities raised concerns about COVID-19 infection risks related to singer Psy's summer concert 'Heumppeok Show,' Psy's side announced that they will provide additional KF94 masks to all attendees.

On the 22nd, Psy's agency P Nation announced, "In addition to disinfecting the entire venue before the concert and providing one waterproof mask, we plan to provide three KF94 masks to all attendees regarding COVID-19 and mask hygiene."

P Nation stated about the mask distribution, "According to the guidance procedures during the concert, masks can be replaced three times. We will continue to prepare diligently and present the best performance." They added, "From the preparation process to the conclusion of the final performance, we will strictly adhere to all COVID-19 prevention guidelines."

Psy is scheduled to hold the summer concert 'Heumppeok Show' over seven weeks from July 9 to August 20 in Incheon, Seoul, Suwon, Gangneung, Yeosu, Daegu, and Busan.

The Heumppeok Show, held for the first time in about three years due to COVID-19, has attracted high interest, with tickets selling out immediately after the recent ticket sales began.

However, earlier, Ko Jae-young, head of the Crisis Communication Team at the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (spokesperson for the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency), expressed concerns on the 16th, stating, "In large outdoor performances, if masks get wet, their function deteriorates, increasing the risk of bacterial growth."

Im Sook-young, head of the Central Disease Control Headquarters Situation Management Team, also emphasized again during a regular briefing on the 17th, "Wet masks make one more vulnerable to infection. We strongly request that events avoid spraying water."

Current quarantine guidelines do not prohibit spraying water during performances.

Meanwhile, controversy arose over holding the Heumppeok Show amid a recent drought. Opinions were divided between those who argued, "It is inappropriate to hold a concert that sprays water during a drought," and those who said, "There is no problem with holding the Heumppeok Show."

However, with the rainy season starting nationwide from the 23rd, it is expected that the drought will be somewhat alleviated.