Prime Minister Jeong: "Japan's Measures Are Neither Scientific Nor Wise... Retaliatory Actions Inevitable"

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwangho Lee] Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said on the 7th regarding Japan's entry restrictions on Koreans, "The Japanese government's recent measures are neither scientific nor wise."

On the same day, Prime Minister Chung presided over the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters meeting for COVID-19 response at Daegu City Hall and stated, "The COVID-19 crisis is no longer an issue at the level of individual countries but a crisis for all humanity. At a time when international cooperation is as important as internal solidarity, the Japanese government, our long-time neighbor, has chosen to block and ignore us."

Prime Minister Chung explained, "Our testing capacity is among the best in the world, and our fatality rate is the lowest among major countries. Large-scale testing exceeding 10,000 people per day and transparent disclosure of test results have greatly contributed to the world’s understanding of COVID-19’s characteristics and accurate fatality rate. In a situation where it is doubtful whether Japan is as transparent and proactive as we are, our corresponding measures against Japan’s unfair actions are inevitable."

He added, "I ask the relevant ministries to thoroughly prepare so that soon-to-be-implemented measures such as suspension of visa exemptions and special entry procedures can be carried out with minimal confusion on the ground."

Prime Minister Chung mourned, "Yesterday, a public official at Seongju County Office collapsed from overwork during emergency COVID-19 response duty and ultimately lost his life. My heart aches with indescribable sorrow. I pray for the deceased’s soul."

He continued, "I would like to once again express my gratitude to the public officials, village chiefs, neighborhood chiefs, and medical staff across the country who are risking their lives and dedicating themselves to protecting the lives and safety of the people."

Prime Minister Chung said, "As the COVID-19 crisis prolongs, difficulties are increasing throughout society. This is a time when mutual encouragement, solidarity, consideration, and concession are desperately needed to overcome the crisis."

He also added, "Encouragement for overcoming COVID-19 continues from all walks of life. Many citizens have donated money for residents of Daegu and Gyeongbuk and those in need, and have sent quarantine supplies and daily necessities. In the region, living treatment centers and hospital beds have been willingly provided. I sincerely thank you."

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