Ministry of National Defense Extends Military Social Distancing Level 4 for 2 Weeks... Leave and Private Gatherings Slightly Eased

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Song Seung-yoon] The Ministry of National Defense announced on the 20th that it will extend the current Level 4 "social distancing within the military," which has been applied to all armed forces from the 23rd of this month to the 5th of next month, for two more weeks. However, some guidelines, which are currently stricter than civilian measures considering vaccination rates, will be adjusted accordingly.

Accordingly, regardless of their place of residence, all soldiers will be allowed to take leave within approximately 10% of the unit personnel. With approval from a general-level commander, this can be expanded up to 15%. The guideline advising residents of Level 4 areas such as the Seoul metropolitan area to refrain from taking leave will be removed, and restrictions on private gatherings will be somewhat relaxed from "postpone or cancel" to "refrain as much as possible."

In line with government guidelines, gatherings of up to 4 people before 6 p.m. and up to 2 people after 6 p.m. are permitted. However, in restaurants and cafes, vaccinated individuals will be allowed to gather in groups of up to 4.

Regarding the movement of officers, the guideline has been changed from "restriction on outings and movement after work" to "refrain" in order to guarantee basic rights. However, existing guidelines will continue to apply to outings, overnight stays, visits, and essential unit operations such as religious activities and meetings.

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