Hwang Kyo-ahn: "Daegu and Gyeongbuk Should Be Declared Special Disaster Areas... Refrain from Large-Scale Gatherings"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] Hwang Kyo-ahn, leader of the United Future Party, raised his voice regarding the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), urging the declaration of Daegu and Gyeongbuk as special disaster areas and the elevation of the infectious disease crisis level to 'serious.' He also requested restraint regarding large-scale gatherings.

On the 23rd, Hwang stated in an official position, "The number of confirmed cases of Wuhan pneumonia in Daegu and Gyeongbuk is rapidly increasing, and unfortunately, this trend is expected to continue for the time being. The reality is that it is impossible to predict how many confirmed cases will increase in the future."

He emphasized, "Currently, Daegu and Cheongdo areas are designated as special management areas for infectious diseases, but this is insufficient," adding, "We must actively consider declaring Daegu and Gyeongbuk as special disaster areas."

He continued, "Also, the infectious disease crisis level should be raised from 'alert' to 'serious' to immediately implement ultra-strong measures," and added, "We should consider relaxing the criteria for free testing of Wuhan pneumonia (COVID-19)."

He stressed the need for the enactment of related special laws and the expansion of the ban on Chinese entry. Hwang said, "Our political circles must promptly discuss related special laws to support the Daegu and Gyeongbuk regions and take the lead in passing them as soon as possible. We will initiate the enactment of special laws centered on United Future Party members," and added, "The government should immediately implement all mobilizable measures and ban the entry of foreigners who have visited all regions of China."

He also urged restraint on large-scale gatherings. Hwang said, "The nationwide spread of infection has already become a reality. Large-scale gatherings and events can worsen the spread of infection. They must be refrained from as much as possible," and added, "It is time for a nationwide campaign. I firmly believe that the people will willingly participate."

He did not forget to offer consolation to residents of Daegu, where support for the United Future Party is strong. Hwang said, "A significant number of additional confirmed cases are residents of Daegu and Gyeongbuk. Considering the anxiety and fear felt by the citizens of Daegu and Gyeongbuk, I am at a loss and deeply sorry," and added, "If it were up to me, I would rush there immediately to comfort the citizens of Daegu and Gyeongbuk and carefully check the situation on site, but I want to roll up my sleeves and do whatever I can."

He continued, "I have been hesitant to visit the site hastily due to concerns that my visit might increase worries about community infection and exacerbate confusion on site," and said, "Yesterday, I had phone calls in succession with Kwon Young-jin, Mayor of Daegu, and Lee Cheol-woo, Governor of Gyeongbuk, and was able to receive detailed updates and understand what urgent measures are needed."

Hwang said, "Currently, Daegu and Gyeongbuk are severely lacking in hospitals, medical staff, negative pressure facilities, and other medical infrastructure. The government should promptly provide large-scale human and material support," and added, "In the future, the United Future Party will continue to propose the demands of the local field to the government. The United Future Party will also continuously identify and consider what the people and the field need and come up with solutions."

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