'Self-Quarantine Exemption' for Business Trips to China, Vietnam, and Cambodia Starting from the 29th (Update)

On the afternoon of the 1st, arriving passengers at Incheon International Airport are seen moving while listening to explanations from officials. Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Yeon-ju] From the 29th, domestic businesspeople returning from business trips within 14 days to China, Vietnam, and Cambodia will be exempt from mandatory self-quarantine.

The Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (CDSCH) held a meeting on the same day, chaired by Headquarters Chief Jeong Se-gyun at the Government Sejong Complex Building 1 video conference room, and announced this decision, referring to China, Vietnam, and Cambodia as low-risk countries for COVID-19.

Chief Jeong said, "One of the core aspects of our quarantine management is addressing population movement issues such as domestic and international entry and exit," adding, "Although it places a burden on quarantine authorities, considering our country's export-dependent economy, we must create more detailed and perfect guidelines to prevent unexpected side effects."

He continued, "From today, domestic businesspeople who have traveled on business trips within 14 days to the three low-risk countries of China, Vietnam, and Cambodia will be exempt from mandatory self-quarantine," and urged, "Since this privilege is granted, companies should act responsibly and strive in quarantine management so that many businesses can enjoy the benefits."

Until now, the government has exceptionally exempted self-quarantine only for holders of diplomatic, official, and agreement visas, those who have confirmed business purposes such as contracts and investments through overseas diplomatic missions before entry, participants in international competitions, and those visiting for public interest or humanitarian reasons.

In principle, all individuals entering from overseas must undergo a 14-day self-quarantine and are required to take a COVID-19 diagnostic test at a health center or similar facility within 3 days after entry.

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