[2020 National Audit] Park Neung-hoo "Promoting the Quarantine System in a Direction that Grants Freedom and Responsibility"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] Park Neung-hoo, Minister of Health and Welfare, emphasized on the 8th regarding the prevention of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) that "Now is the time to pursue a fundamental systemic change, not just small partial changes."

On the same day, at the National Assembly Health and Welfare Committee's audit, in response to Rep. Heo Jong-sik of the Democratic Party of Korea saying, "K-quarantine should be upgraded to accompany economic revitalization," Minister Park said, "I completely agree."

Rep. Heo stated, "K-quarantine was possible due to the absolute support and cooperation of the people, but as time goes by, the people are getting tired. We need to start at least minimal discussions to upgrade K-quarantine to one that goes along with economic revitalization while thoroughly managing high-risk groups and adapting to reality."

In response, Minister Park said, "The government shares the same awareness of the issue," adding, "Over the past nine months, we have changed the medical and quarantine systems depending on the situation, but going forward, we will change the quarantine system in a direction that grants freedom and responsibility within social solidarity."

The government plans to announce the adjustment plan for the 'social distancing' levels to be applied from next week on the 11th, the last day of the Chuseok special quarantine period. The plan will be discussed comprehensively considering the increase or decrease in patients after the Chuseok holiday, the pattern of infection spread, and the distribution of cluster infections.

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