Sangjo Kim "Is Japan as Transparent as Us... Regret Over Entry Restrictions on Koreans"

Sangjo Kim, Chief of Policy Office at the Blue House

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoon Shin-won] Kim Sang-jo, Chief of the Blue House Policy Office, expressed regret on the 5th regarding Japan's decision to impose entry restrictions on Koreans to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

Kim appeared on KBS1TV's 'News 9' that day and commented on the global trend of countries imposing entry restrictions on Koreans, saying, "I was disappointed when I saw Japan's announcement in the evening. I deeply regret such extreme measures."

He said, "To resolve the COVID-19 situation, domestic efforts are necessary, but international cooperation is also important," adding, "We have made many efforts to maintain the trilateral cooperation system among Korea, China, and Japan, which are closely connected."

He continued, "We conduct 13,000 tests daily, maintaining the most bold transparency in the world," and added, "We also disclose the results transparently, and I doubt whether Japan is as transparent as we are."

Kim also stated, "I believe the government will announce its official position through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the 6th."

Earlier, Japan strengthened quarantine measures for entrants coming from Korea and China, requiring them to wait for two weeks at locations designated by the quarantine chief and requesting that they refrain from using public transportation within Japan.

Additionally, Japan decided to refuse entry not only to foreigners who have been in Daegu and Cheongdo in Gyeongbuk but also those who have stayed in Andong, Gyeongsan, Yeongcheon, Chilgok, Uiseong, Seongju, and Gunwi counties.

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