Support for 30,000 Overseas Koreans Returning After COVID-19 Spread (Update)

On the 18th, overseas arrivals at Terminal 1 of Incheon International Airport are receiving transportation-related guidance from Jeollabuk-do officials. Photo by Moon Honam munonam@

[Asia Economy Reporters Choi Dae-yeol and Jo Hyun-ui] As the number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) increases worldwide, it has been revealed that our government has helped about 30,000 nationals overseas return to Korea.

According to the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters on the 20th, the government has supported the entry of 29,560 Korean nationals from 99 countries so far. Efforts are currently underway for overseas nationals in 23 countries. By region, Asia accounts for the largest number with 19,449 people, followed by Europe with 4,313, the Middle East with 2,430, and North America with 1,843. Among those who returned on government-chartered flights, 1,647 people were repatriated, while the remaining 27,691 entered via other flights besides government-leased charters.

Since the first confirmed case was reported in China at the end of December last year, cases have also appeared domestically earlier this year. Subsequently, cases increased mainly in major Asian countries, then spread to the Middle East, Europe, and further to North America, Central and South America, and Africa worldwide. As confirmed cases rose, countries implemented strong movement restrictions such as border closures, suspension of flights, entry bans, and domestic travel restrictions. In consideration of the difficulties overseas nationals face in receiving COVID-19 testing or treatment, the government has been supporting their return by leasing charter flights and other means.

Kim Kang-lip, the first chief coordinator of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters, said at a briefing on the day, "Even after entry, thorough preventive quarantine measures are being taken, including 14 days of isolation in facilities," and added, "We are negotiating with other governments and private airlines to increase flights and supporting the securing of air tickets so that overseas nationals wishing to enter the country can return promptly."

Meanwhile, as of the afternoon of the previous day, the government has identified 121 Korean nationals confirmed with COVID-19 in 27 overseas countries and regions.

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