What Happens to Department Stores and Large Marts When Social Distancing Moves to Level 3?

As the number of new COVID-19 cases exceeds 1,000, attention is focused on what measures will be taken for department stores, marts, and large-scale stores when social distancing is raised to level 3. Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Nana Han] As the number of new domestic COVID-19 cases surpassed 1,000 for the first time ever, the government has begun considering social distancing Level 3, drawing attention to what measures will be imposed on department stores, marts, and large-scale retail outlets.

Amid the increasing spread of COVID-19, the government is gathering opinions from metropolitan local governments and private experts regarding the escalation to social distancing Level 3.

According to the current social distancing phase implementation plan, at Level 3, which corresponds to a nationwide pandemic stage, gatherings are prohibited except for facilities essential to industry and daily life. Level 3 is a nationwide measure, and individual local governments cannot adjust the level independently.

If escalated to Level 3, large-scale stores such as department stores and outlets will be classified as prohibited gathering facilities and must close.

However, marts, convenience stores, small supermarkets, retail stores, and bakeries are considered essential facilities and are exempt from the gathering ban. The issue is whether large marts are included in this category, as the Level 3 social distancing guidelines have not yet clearly defined the scale of marts considered essential facilities.

Currently, large marts and department stores in the metropolitan area operate under social distancing Level 2.5 and nationwide Level 2, and in Seoul, they cease operations after 9 p.m.

In the case of convenience stores, even if social distancing escalates to Level 3, a shutdown or reduced operating hours are unlikely, but quarantine guidelines may be strengthened. Currently, convenience stores in the metropolitan area prohibit the consumption of instant foods such as fish cakes and steamed buns inside the store after 9 p.m., as well as ramen and triangular kimbap.

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