Seoul City to Control Hangang Park and Ban Gatherings of 10 or More "For the Time Being"

Free Flu Vaccination for High-Risk Occupations to Prevent 'Twin-demic'

On the 8th, Yeouido Hangang Park in Seoul is being partially closed as the Seoul Metropolitan Government controls access to major crowded areas within Hangang Park and reduces the operating hours of convenience stores and parking lots to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus infection. Photo by Jinhyung Kang aymsdream@

[Asia Economy Reporter Jo In-kyung] Despite the easing of 'social distancing' to level 2, the control of Hangang Park will continue for the time being. The ban on gatherings of 10 or more people across Seoul has also been extended until the 11th of next month.

On the 14th, Seo Jeong-hyeop, Acting Mayor of Seoul, held a briefing and stated, "Restrictions have been eased to allow Hangang Park convenience stores and parking lots to operate after 9 p.m., but the control of certain sections of Yeouido, Banpo, and Ttukseom Hangang Parks will be maintained for the time being."

The control of Hangang Park began on the 8th based on Seoul City's own judgment following the government's upgrade to social distancing level 2.5. Considering the spread of COVID-19 centered in the metropolitan area, Seoul City recognizes that activities such as gathering or eating together must still be prevented. However, the nighttime gathering restrictions previously imposed on pojangmacha (street food stalls), street vendors, and food trucks will be changed to 'recommendations to comply with quarantine rules.'

The complete ban on gatherings of 10 or more people across Seoul, which was imposed after the Gwanghwamun rally on August 15, has been extended until 24:00 on October 11. Currently, a total of 117 rallies have been reported during the Chuseok and Hangeul Day holidays in Seoul, with an expected participation of 400,000 people. The city has sent official letters to the relevant organizations notifying them of the ban on gatherings.

Seoul City will also prioritize free flu vaccinations for a total of 150,383 high-risk groups to prevent the 'twindemic' of influenza and COVID-19 occurring simultaneously. The target groups include public transportation drivers with frequent public contact, childcare teachers, residents of social welfare facilities, workers at postpartum care centers and child care centers, sanitation workers, and security personnel in apartment complexes.

Acting Mayor Seo emphasized, "Although the quarantine authorities have taken this desperate measure due to the pain and tears of self-employed people whose livelihoods are threatened, the transition to social distancing level 2 is by no means a downgrade," adding, "Seoul City can proactively strengthen social distancing at any time if the situation worsens."

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