Jeonbuk Governor Song Ha-jin Appeals for "Warm Social Distancing" This Chuseok

Request to Refrain from Travel and Contact Including Hometown Visits
"Large-scale Gatherings on Gaecheonjeol Should Be Avoided"

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Tae-in] Song Ha-jin, Governor of Jeonbuk Province, issued an appeal on the 15th emphasizing ‘Warm Social Distancing’ for the community ahead of the Chuseok holiday.

On the 15th, Governor Song urged active participation from residents and expatriates in ‘Warm Social Distancing’ to block COVID-19 during the Chuseok holiday through an appeal announced at a press conference at the Jeonbuk Provincial Office.

Governor Song said, “It is a precious time to meet beloved parents and relatives and share deep affection, but this year, I earnestly ask you to postpone meetings for a while and join in ‘Warm Social Distancing’ with a heart that cares for the community,” emphasizing, “When we are safe and healthy through social distancing, true family happiness will also be possible.”

Governor Song warned that large-scale movements, including visiting hometowns during the Chuseok holiday, could recreate the spread of SARS in China in the past and pose a serious threat to the health of elderly parents and others.

He stated, “The SARS virus, which terrified the world 17 years ago, rapidly spread during the Chinese holiday ‘Chunjeol’ (Lunar New Year),” and added, “Visiting hometowns or traveling to other regions such as the metropolitan area can ultimately become a spark for large-scale infections.”

Governor Song Ha-jin especially expressed concern regarding the large-scale rally planned by some conservative groups on Gaecheonjeol and urged restraint.

He said, “Due to the aftermath of the Liberation Day rally, social distancing has been strengthened, incurring enormous social costs,” and stressed, “If you truly care for the people and love the country, please refrain from attending this large-scale rally and unite in overcoming COVID-19.”

The appeal also mentioned measures to soothe the disappointment of residents and expatriates who should refrain from visiting their hometowns.

Governor Song stated, “Jeollabuk-do will prepare active measures to strengthen quarantine and stabilize the local economy,” and added, “We will provide grave-cleaning services, introduce a reservation system for memorial facilities to minimize visits, and strengthen quarantine in multi-use facilities.”

Furthermore, he said, “We will implement expanded use of Onnuri gift certificates by public institutions for the livelihood economy, drive-thru sales of ceremonial goods, and hold the Jeonbuk Agricultural Products Exhibition linked with large marts,” adding, “We will also promote welfare measures for vulnerable social groups who are more susceptible in times of crisis.”

Governor Song Ha-jin said, “As confirmed through various experiences, movement and contact are shortcuts for virus spread,” and added, “Sincerity and love can be conveyed through the heart, so even if we cannot be together this year, let us create a more united Chuseok with warm hearts.”

Following this, Governor Song sent a letter encouraging participation in ‘Warm Social Distancing’ to executives of the Jeonbuk Residents Association and expatriates, and plans to widely publicize this message through the Jeonbuk Residents Association website and social networking services of expatriates.

Jeonbuk Province plans to announce a comprehensive Chuseok holiday plan related to COVID-19 quarantine and livelihood stabilization on the 16th, presented by Executive Vice Governor Choi Hoon.

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