[Breaking] 'Corona 3 Laws' Passed in National Assembly Plenary Session... 'Corona Countermeasures Special Committee' Also Formed

On the 26th, members of the National Assembly attended the plenary session wearing masks. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporters Kang Nahum and Jeon Jinyoung] The so-called 'COVID-19 Three Acts' enacted to respond to the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) passed the National Assembly on the 26th.

On the afternoon of the same day, the National Assembly approved partial amendments to three laws: the Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Act, the Quarantine Act, and the Medical Service Act, during the plenary session. All three bills were passed with unanimous approval from all members present.

The amendment to the Infectious Disease Prevention Act allows for the distribution of masks and other protective measures to vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly using social welfare facilities when an alert of 'caution' or higher is issued due to an infectious disease outbreak.

Additionally, if a first-class infectious disease outbreak causes a sharp rise in prices or supply shortages of pharmaceuticals and other goods, the Minister of Health and Welfare may prohibit the export of items such as masks and hand sanitizers for the announced period.

Furthermore, penalties for violating hospitalization or quarantine orders have been increased from the current fine of 3 million won to imprisonment of up to one year or a fine of up to 10 million won.

Moreover, the number of epidemiological investigators under the Ministry of Health and Welfare will be increased from the current minimum of 30 to at least 100, and epidemiological investigators will be mandatorily assigned to cities, counties, and districts above a certain size.

The amendment to the Quarantine Act includes provisions allowing the Minister of Health and Welfare to request the Minister of Justice to ban the entry of foreigners arriving from or transiting through regions where infectious diseases are prevalent or likely to spread.

The amendment to the Medical Service Act aims to strengthen the national response system by establishing a new infection surveillance system for patients, caregivers, and medical institution workers within medical facilities.

Meanwhile, prior to this, the National Assembly also approved the formation of the 'National Assembly COVID-19 Countermeasures Special Committee.' Chaired by Kim Jinpyo of the Democratic Party of Korea, this special committee will discuss budgetary and institutional support measures at the National Assembly level to alleviate public anxiety and minimize economic damage.

From the Democratic Party, Representative Ki Dongmin serves as the committee secretary, with members including Kim Sanghee, Hong Eui-rak, Jo Seungrae, Shim Gijun, Park Jeong, Kim Youngho, and Heo Yoonjung. The United Future Party includes committee secretary Kim Seunghee and members Shin Sangjin, Na Kyungwon, Lee Chaeik, Park Daechul, Kim Sunrye, Baek Seungju, and Jeong Taeok. From the Minsheng Party, Representative Kim Kwangsoo participates.

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