Kim Jong-in Meets Jung Eun-kyeong, Says "Will Establish National Health Safety Department"

"Social Distancing Level 3 Should Be Advanced as a Preventive Measure"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Chun-han] Kim Jong-in, Emergency Committee Chairman of the United Future Party, stated on the 21st, "I plan to soon request the government to establish a new Ministry of National Health and Safety."

Chairman Kim held a private meeting with Director Jeong Eun-kyung at the Disease Control Headquarters in Cheongju, Chungbuk, and said, "After experiencing the virus, it seems that quarantine is as important as national defense." Director Jeong responded, "That's right. Even if there are no fires, fire stations must be maintained," adding, "Local governments should solidly establish infectious disease response personnel and organizations, and conduct regular inspections, education, and training."

Chairman Kim said, "The government seems to be so focused on results that it does not listen well to experts," and added, "The Disease Control Headquarters is hardly connected with all local organizations." He then promised, "Director, please do not fear anything else and play the role of conveying the situation to the public as it is," and assured, "The political circle will build a firewall for you."

When Chairman Kim asked, "Wouldn't it be wiser to expedite the implementation of the 3-step social distancing as a preventive measure?" Director Jeong replied, "We review it daily. We will keep that in mind and continue monitoring."

After visiting the Disease Control Headquarters, Chairman Kim told reporters, "Considering the second wave of the COVID-19 crisis, I suggested quickly preparing a supplementary budget, and within that scope, things like disaster relief funds can be discussed."

Regarding President Moon Jae-in's remarks emphasizing strict law enforcement against acts obstructing quarantine, including on-the-spot arrests, Chairman Kim evaluated, "I believe such strong statements do not have much significance in resolving the COVID-19 crisis."

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