Seoul 'Social Distancing' Level 2.5... 33 Places Including Restaurants Caught Violating Quarantine Rules

On the 1st, when social distancing level 2.5 was in effect due to the resurgence of COVID-19, a notice about the 'Restriction on Nighttime Tasting Area Operation' was posted at a convenience store in downtown Seoul. The Seoul Metropolitan Government stated in its regular COVID-19 briefing that "since most convenience stores fall under general restaurants and snack bars, eating inside the convenience store and at outdoor tables after 9 p.m. is prohibited." Photo by Kim Hyun-min kimhyun81@

[Asia Economy Reporter Jo In-kyung] Thirty-three establishments in Seoul were caught by health authorities for violating strengthened 'social distancing' measures, including a ban on nighttime dining.

Seoul City announced on the 7th that since the implementation of social distancing level 2.5 on the 30th of last month, it has inspected compliance with quarantine rules together with autonomous districts and the police, resulting in 33 places such as restaurants being caught and ordered to close.

If core quarantine rules are not followed, a two-week closure order will be imposed, and failure to comply may lead to criminal charges and a fine of up to 3 million won.

Under the social distancing level 2.5 measures applied to the metropolitan area, general restaurants, cafes, and bakeries are only allowed to offer takeout and delivery from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. the next day.

To prevent the 'balloon effect' where citizens gather elsewhere after 9 p.m., Seoul City applies the same closure restrictions to convenience stores, street stalls, street vendors, and food trucks as those applied to general restaurants.

Franchise coffee shops, bakeries, and ice cream or shaved ice shops may only provide takeout and delivery regardless of business hours.

Park Yumi, Seoul City's quarantine controller, said, "As indoor activities are restricted, a balloon effect is occurring where citizens flock to outdoor spaces such as Hangang Park and neighborhood parks," adding, "Although these outdoor spaces are not subject to gathering restrictions, they are not free from infection risks, so please refrain from eating, drinking, and nighttime alcohol consumption."

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