'Tourism and Economic Revitalization', 'Resolving Quarantine Anxiety', 'Preventing Mask Conflicts' Policy
Mask Wearing Mandated in Some Facilities Like Public Transport and Hospitals
[Asia Economy Reporter La Young-cheol] Starting from the 30th, as the government partially lifts the indoor mask-wearing mandate for the first time in three years and transitions to a 'wearing recommendation' (Phase 1 of mandatory adjustment), Gangwon Province is launching follow-up measures for the 'indoor no-mask era after 3 years.'
Earlier, Governor Kim Jin-tae of Gangwon Province instructed relevant departments to prepare measures in response to the indoor no-mask era just before the Lunar New Year holiday. The province stated, "On the 30th, the administrative and economic vice governors along with heads of related departments and bureaus will hold a comprehensive countermeasure meeting."
According to the province, the comprehensive countermeasures for the indoor no-mask era are based on the principles of 'revitalizing tourism and the economy,' 'alleviating quarantine-related anxiety,' and 'preventing conflicts in facilities where mask-wearing remains mandatory.'
The plan is to use the 'lifting of the indoor mask mandate' as an opportunity to invigorate tourism and economic sectors within the province, promote consumption and tourism, and lead an increase in visitors to Gangwon through a campaign tentatively named 'Mask-Free Gangwon Economy.'
Additionally, to minimize concerns and anxiety arising from the lifting of the indoor mask mandate, the province intends to expand COVID-19 dedicated hospital beds, strengthen emergency medical systems, and enhance autonomous quarantine capabilities.
While mask-wearing will remain mandatory on public transportation such as taxis and buses, in vulnerable facilities, medical institutions, and pharmacies, the province is considering providing masks free of charge to visitors who come without masks to prevent conflicts with others.
Governor Kim Jin-tae of Gangwon Province said, "Finally, the suffocating indoor mask mandate has been lifted, and we can enjoy freedom after 839 days," adding, "Since strong mandates have been imposed until now, there may be transitional confusion for a while, but we will prepare thoroughly to minimize confusion during this period and help revive the local economy."
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