Prime Minister Jeong: "The Fortnight Before School Opening Is a Critical Period... Practicing 'Social Distancing' Is Important"

Prime Minister Jeong Sye-kyun

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwangho Lee] Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said on the 21st, "The next fifteen days leading up to the April school reopening is a critical period during which we must significantly reduce the risk of the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19)."

On the same day, Prime Minister Chung held an emergency Cabinet members workshop at the Government Seoul Office and stated, "It is more important than anything else that each party practices social distancing, which is the most effective measure, to the fullest extent."

Prime Minister Chung also emphasized that government projects must be carried out in accordance with the COVID-19 crisis situation. He said, "We need to review what the government’s top priorities are to overcome the crisis and how the content and schedule of each ministry’s projects need to be adjusted accordingly."

He added, "We must also prepare together for the direction our country should take after overcoming COVID-19," and urged, "We need to analyze and prepare alternatives in advance regarding the aspects our society needs to supplement and develop across economic, industrial activities, and social relations."

He then requested, "I hope that the Cabinet members share their responses in each field here and find solutions together."

Prime Minister Chung mentioned the difficulties faced by self-employed individuals and small business owners as well as challenges in the financial market. He stressed, "Since the first confirmed case on January 20th, we have been going through difficult times. The pain experienced by self-employed individuals and small business owners, as well as difficulties in the financial market, instill in us an urgent and solemn sense of responsibility that we must overcome COVID-19 as soon as possible."

He continued, "Although it is the weekend, I feel sorry as Prime Minister that Cabinet members are unable to rest and have gathered to pool wisdom together," and added, "Still, I ask you to willingly participate and actively share your wisdom, even in small ways, for the sake of the people."

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