COVID-19 Weekly Risk Level 'Low' for the First Time in 13 Weeks

Today's New Confirmed Cases 19,538, 47% Decrease Compared to Last Week

[Asia Economy Reporter Seong Giho] As the decline in the resurgence of COVID-19 continues, the weekly COVID-19 risk level has been assessed as 'low' for the first time in 13 weeks.

Kim Seongho, Head of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (CDSCH) and the 2nd General Coordinator of CDSCH, stated at the CDSCH meeting on the 25th, "The weekly risk level was evaluated as 'low' nationwide, in the metropolitan area, and in non-metropolitan areas for the first time in 13 weeks," adding, "We will thoroughly prepare in advance by providing guidance on facilities where indoor mask-wearing obligations will be maintained in relation to the adjustment of the indoor mask-wearing mandate starting from the 30th."

According to CDSCH, the number of new confirmed cases on that day was 19,538, a 47% decrease compared to one week ago. The average daily number of confirmed cases last week was about 29,000, marking the lowest level in 13 weeks. The number of new critically ill patients decreased for two consecutive weeks, and deaths decreased for three consecutive weeks. The intensive care unit bed occupancy rate was recorded at 29.5%.

Photo by Younghan Heo younghan@

Head Kim emphasized, "The increase in face-to-face contact and mobility during the Lunar New Year holiday could lead to an increase in confirmed cases," and added, "The government will closely monitor the possibility of re-spreading after the Lunar New Year holiday due to domestic and international factors and will operate quarantine and surveillance systems without any gaps."

He continued, "Wearing a mask is the most basic means of protecting oneself from COVID-19," and requested, "For your own health, we strongly recommend that high-risk groups, those in three-dense environments, and those in contact with symptomatic individuals wear masks without fail."

Finally, Head Kim stated, "To minimize deaths and damage caused by COVID-19 and to enjoy a normal daily life, vaccination for high-risk groups is essential," and added, "We ask high-risk individuals who have not yet received the additional winter vaccination to complete their vaccination as soon as possible."