Health Authorities "Under Detailed Investigation"
On the 15th, the Jamsil Olympic Main Stadium in Songpa-gu, Seoul, was bustling with spectators gathered to watch singer Psy's concert 'Hmph Show'. [Image source=Yonhap News]
[Asia Economy Reporter Yoon Seul-gi] Following a series of reports of COVID-19 infections after attending performances where large amounts of water were sprayed, health authorities have launched an investigation.
On the 26th, Park Young-jun, head of the epidemiological investigation team at the Central Disease Control Headquarters (CDCH), stated in a briefing that regarding the ongoing reports of infections after water-spraying performances, "We are aware of the situation and are conducting a detailed investigation."
Park added, "It is necessary to investigate which specific behaviors may pose risk factors. It is already known that mass gatherings or large-scale concerts where many people gather increase the likelihood of transmission. To reduce transmission even slightly, we are advising compliance with quarantine guidelines even during outdoor activities."
On the afternoon of the 17th, at the Jamsil Olympic Main Stadium in Songpa-gu, Seoul, audience members enjoyed the performance while being sprayed with water during singer Psy's concert 'Psy Humppok Show 2022'. [Image source=Yonhap News]
Previously, numerous reports surfaced on online communities and social networking services (SNS) of individuals testing positive for COVID-19 after attending singer Psy's 'Heumbbeok Show.' The Heumbbeok Show is a performance concept where water is sprayed liberally for enjoyment, which has raised concerns about vulnerability to infection. This is because masks can become wet, increasing the risk of bacterial growth.
In this regard, health authorities have also expressed concerns. On the 16th of last month, Ko Jae-young, head of the crisis communication team at the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's CDCH, stated, "If masks become wet from water, the risk of bacterial growth increases, so appropriate measures such as mask replacement are necessary."
On the 17th of last month, Lim Sook-young, director of the CDCH situation management team, said in a briefing, "When masks become wet, individuals become more vulnerable to infection. We strongly urge that festivals not be conducted in a manner that involves spraying water."
In response to the controversy, Psy's team announced that as part of infection control measures, they would provide all attendees with one waterproof mask and three KF94 masks. They also emphasized strict adherence to all quarantine guidelines.
Meanwhile, the Heumbbeok Show began in Incheon on the 9th, followed by performances at Seoul Jamsil Olympic Stadium from the 15th to the 17th, and on the 23rd in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province. It is reported that each performance attracted approximately 33,000 attendees.
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