Prime Minister Jeong: "Apologies to the Public for Mask Shortage... 5-Day Rotation System Requires Citizens' Cooperation" (Comprehensive)

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwangho Lee] Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said on the 8th regarding the response to the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) situation, "The government will mobilize all administrative power to ensure the 'Mask 5-Day Rotation System' is implemented without any issues," and added, "The active cooperation of the public is crucial for the system to take root."

On the same day, Prime Minister Chung issued a public address titled "A Message to the People on the Full-Scale Implementation of the Mask 5-Day Rotation System" at Daegu City Hall, stating, "After a three-day trial period, the Mask 5-Day Rotation System will be fully implemented starting tomorrow. The system has been designed to allow as fair a purchase of masks as possible."

He urged, "Although it may be somewhat inconvenient, I ask you to demonstrate mature civic consciousness based on concession, consideration, and cooperation so that those who truly need masks can purchase them first," and added, "Let us wisely overcome the current crisis with the spirit of sharing even a single bean."

He also explained, "The revised mask usage guidelines state that masks do not need to be worn outdoors in uncrowded areas, at home, or in individual spaces," and "In places with low risk of infection, the use of cloth masks is also recommended. I, along with the public service community, will take the lead in using cloth masks."

Furthermore, he emphasized, "We will make every effort to secure raw materials such as filters to increase mask supply," and "While maximizing the operation rate of production facilities, we will thoroughly crack down on secretive production and illegal distribution."

He continued, "The Republic of Korea is fighting a war against COVID-19," and noted, "Although the urgent fires are being put out, the situation remains severe. The public's anxiety has not subsided."

In particular, he bowed his head, saying, "Despite the government's efforts, the mask issue has not yet been resolved," and expressed deep regret as the person responsible for the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters.

He also appealed again for cooperation with the 5-day rotation system, stating, "In a situation where supply cannot meet demand, the government had no choice but to limit mask purchases to two per person," and explained, "This is due to not only the absolute shortage but also the practical constraints of prioritizing urgent medical sites and special infectious disease control areas."

Prime Minister Chung expressed, "We will not neglect efforts to revive the stagnant economy. Once the supplementary budget of 11.7 trillion won submitted to the National Assembly is passed, the government will promptly respond to completely end the COVID-19 situation and restore the economy," and added, "We will do our best to create an environment where all citizens can focus on their daily lives and livelihoods."

He said, "It is not the wind and waves but the direction of the sail that determines the ship's course. Even in the headwind of COVID-19, we will move forward," and expressed deep gratitude for "the tearful dedication of medical staff, volunteers, military, police, and firefighters who rushed to Daegu from all over the country, the close cooperation between the central and local governments, and the moving and voluntary support of the citizens."

He concluded, "Our people have demonstrated stronger power in the face of crises and will continue to do so," and emphasized, "If all citizens unite and combine their strength, we will surely win the war against COVID-19."

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