Iksan City Lowers Social Distancing to Level 1.5... Public Facility Closures Remain in Effect

Medical staff are collecting specimens at a temporary screening clinic for COVID-19 set up at Seoul Station Plaza on the 24th. (Photo by Yonhap News)

[Asia Economy Reporter Ryu Tae-min] Iksan City, Jeonbuk announced on the 24th that it will lower the social distancing level from the current Level 2 to Level 1.5 starting from the 25th.

The city explained that the COVID-19 spread in the region has entered a stabilization phase, and the difficulties faced by small business owners have increased, leading to this decision. Accordingly, the operating hour restrictions for restaurants, cafes, karaoke rooms, and entertainment facilities, which were until 10 PM, will be lifted. The number of attendees allowed for religious activities will also be expanded from 20% to 30% of the seating capacity.

However, the city decided to continue the closure of public sports facilities, cultural facilities, welfare centers, and senior citizen centers for the time being.

Earlier, as COVID-19 cases surged, the city raised the social distancing level to Level 2 starting from the 11th.

Mayor Jeong Heon-yul said, "This measure considers self-employed business owners who have been struggling due to long-term operating hour restrictions," adding, "However, to prevent loosening of quarantine measures, compliance with quarantine rules will be more strictly inspected, and violations will be dealt with sternly."

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