Hong Nam-ki: "Public Sector Events Proceed Without Issues... Considering Blood Supply from Fully Recovered Patients (Comprehensive)"

Considering 'Patient Blood Donation' from Recovered COVID-19 Patients with Their Consent

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jang Sehee] Hong Nam-ki, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, said on the 7th, "While we cannot force private sector events, it is necessary to consider proceeding with public sector events strictly based on thorough quarantine measures."

After a meeting with business leaders regarding the novel coronavirus infection (Wuhan pneumonia) held at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry building in Jung-gu, Seoul, Hong told reporters, "There was a request not to unilaterally cancel large-scale events but to proceed with essential events under strict quarantine measures, which would help reduce the burden on the industry."

Hong also said, "There were requests to expand funding and extend loans," adding, "There was a request for the government to consider deferral or reduction measures for facility usage fees and property taxes, and we decided to review this."

He emphasized that plans will also be made to develop virus treatments using the blood of recovered patients.

He said, "There was a suggestion that if the blood of recovered patients is supplied to treatment companies, the development of virus treatments could be accelerated," adding, "Since this involves the supply of individual blood, we will review it carefully."

Regarding applications for special extended work hours, he said, "There have been cases where special approval was granted according to the requirements for special extended work," and added, "The government will respond flexibly when absolutely necessary."

In his opening remarks, Hong said, "It is most important to take the current situation seriously, maintain vigilance, and prepare and respond proactively to the economic ripple effects," but also warned, "We need to be cautious that excessive fear and anxiety do not overly suppress economic activities of economic agents."

He stressed, "The government will devise maximum support measures it can provide, including factory operations and export support for large, medium, and small enterprises, measures to revitalize domestic demand including tourism, and measures to alleviate management difficulties."

He also said, "Some say this is a showy gesture, but this meeting was arranged with a heartfelt concern," and added, "I hope the sincerity of communication is deeply understood."

Meanwhile, at the end of his opening remarks, Hong also mentioned efforts to communicate with businesses. He urged, "Please actively share opinions and difficulties from related industries and do not hesitate to propose areas where government support is needed," and requested, "I ask for your cooperation to revitalize the overall economy."

Attending the meeting were Park Yong-man, Chairman of the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry, along with Gong Young-woon, President of Hyundai Motor Company, Hwang Gak-gyu, Vice Chairman of Lotte, Park Geun-hee, Vice Chairman of CJ, and Seo Jung-jin, Chairman of Celltrion, who conveyed industry requests and difficulties. From the Ministry of Economy and Finance, Deputy Minister Bang Ki-seon and Director General of Economic Policy Lee Ok-won were present.

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