생활 방역 첫날, 정부... 아직은 생활방역 중요해
After two months of intensive social distancing in South Korea, the nation officially began its 'everyday life quarantine’ starting today. Our Choi Won-jong was on the streets of Seoul to check out how the public is taking to the new measures.
The streets in South Korea were filled with people today…the first day of the government's eased social distancing measures.
Today was also the first day back for many workers and businesses after last week's long holiday.
And, despite the warm weather, many people are still wearing face masks both inside and out.
But, some are worried that others have decided not to wear masks on this first day of eased social distancing.
"I think people who are not wearing masks don’t have the awareness of other people. I’m more worried to visit places now because the social distancing is eased."
With the government's eased social distancing measures, and people slowly returning to normal life, more restaurants and coffee shops are gradually reopening their doors and are busy with customers.
"It's been too long. Although the government has eased social distancing, it hasn't done so fully. But, if they wait too long, it will be worse for local businesses. I think it's good that people are now allowed to be outside.”
In the meantime, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has emphasized Wednesday that it’s important to prevent cluster infections within communities.
"Easing social distancing does not mean the end of the COVID-19 outbreak. The goal is to stop the spread of cluster infections even if there are new infections within the community."
The government has also added 5 personal quarantine guidelines, including a rule that could become legislation in the future... requiring people to stay home for 3 to 4 days when sick.
The Health Ministry has reiterated that the easing of social distancing regulations does not mean the end of the coronavirus outbreak, and it is urging people to continue virus prevention efforts. Choi Won-jong, Arirang News.
