Korean Residents in Wuhan 'Anxious' Amid Lockdown... Movement Routes Blocked

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] On the 23rd, China locked down Wuhan City to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus infection, leaving local Korean residents stranded. It is estimated that there are around 2,000 Korean residents in Hubei Province, where Wuhan City is located.

At the Korean Consulate General in Wuhan, after the announcement that all flights, trains, and buses leaving Wuhan were suspended from that day, local Korean residents reportedly began contacting the consulate to inquire about ways to leave Wuhan. Some residents had planned to take flights from Wuhan Airport to other locations that day, but the sudden suspension of flight operations made travel impossible. In particular, major roads to and from Wuhan were also blocked, making travel by car practically difficult.

The Consulate General stated, "All flights and trains departing from Wuhan have been closed, and public transportation within Wuhan city has also been suspended. Toll booths on highways in the outskirts have all been closed, and while general roads excluding highways currently appear to be passable, it is uncertain when they might be closed." They added, "We are closely consulting with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters, Wuhan city government, Hubei provincial government, and the Chinese government to find safe ways for Korean residents to leave Wuhan, such as charter flights or charter buses. We will announce any decisions as soon as they are made."

The Consulate General also urged, "If you have any suspected symptoms related to the novel coronavirus infection, please be sure to contact the consulate or the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency." They advised making mask usage a daily habit and avoiding places where many people gather, such as hospitals and supermarkets, as much as possible.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.