NYT: Koreans Proud of 'K-Quarantine' Growing Doubt Amid Resurgence

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] Regarding the spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in South Korea, Koreans had pride in the government's response, but recently, doubts have been growing due to the resurgence, the New York Times (NYT) evaluated on the 2nd (local time).

In an article from Seoul on the same day, the NYT stated, "Koreans took pride in their COVID-19 response and even coined the term K-quarantine, named after K-POP," adding, "However, South Korea is struggling with a second wave, and its strategy appears to be precarious."

The NYT reported that COVID-19 is spreading in Seoul and that public skepticism about President Moon Jae-in's quarantine efforts is increasing, mentioning, "To make matters worse, young doctors, who were the government's biggest supporters in fighting COVID-19, are turning their backs on President Moon." It further added, "The (South Korean) government is trying to strike a difficult balance between controlling the virus, protecting the economy, using government power to safeguard public health, and not infringing on citizens' freedoms."

The NYT explained that South Korea succeeded in quarantine through active tracing and testing systems and citizens wearing masks after the COVID-19 outbreak in February, and based on this, the Democratic Party achieved an overwhelming victory in the general election in April. It also described how economic activities were actively revived and that by July, some restrictions to prevent COVID-19 spread were partially lifted, showing signs of gradually returning to normal life.

The NYT noted, "However, signs emerged that the easing of restrictions before the holiday starting on August 15th was causing the spread of COVID-19 infections," reporting that confirmed cases related to the Gwanghwamun rally and Sarang Jeil Church have significantly increased, followed by small group infections. It also explained the recent doctors' strike, stating, "Korean doctors are opposing the government's policies being promoted amid the COVID-19 situation."

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