Government "Discussing Establishment of 'With Corona' Terminology... Practical Review of November Quarantine System Transition"

On the 8th, when the number of new COVID-19 cases in South Korea reached the 2,000s, the temporary screening clinic in front of Seoul City Hall was crowded with citizens seeking tests. A record high of 1,476 cases was reported in the metropolitan area, including Seoul, Gyeonggi, and Incheon. The daily number of confirmed cases has remained in the four digits for 64 consecutive days since the 7th of last month (1,211 cases). Photo by Moon Honam munonam@

[Asia Economy Reporter Seo So-jeong] The government is expected to consider transitioning the quarantine system starting in November, after 70% of the entire population completes COVID-19 vaccination. However, since the term 'With Corona' is widely used and may be perceived as a signal for some easing of quarantine measures, discussions on establishing appropriate terminology are also planned.

Jung, the head of the Central Disease Control Headquarters (CDCH) General Coordination Team, said at a back briefing on the 8th, "We are trying to avoid using the term 'With Corona' as much as possible," adding, "People are not using it with the same meaning."

Jung explained, "The term 'With Corona' is sometimes used to mean a state of newly transitioning the current quarantine strategy," and added, "Since there are differences in direction and speed of quarantine strategies, we are considering establishing an appropriate strategy through rational review of these aspects."

He said, "The Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters and CDCH staff are investigating overseas cases and organizing the information," and added, "Once it is organized, it will go through discussions with each ministry and experts."

Jung stated, "Although there is no official organization such as a task force (TF) formed separately, all related teams including epidemiology and diagnostics are cooperating centered on the General Coordination Team to thoroughly review related matters," and explained, "We are discussing not only the establishment of the concept but also various specific situations and indicators for the overall transition."

He added, "The term 'With Corona' is used as a comprehensive concept that encompasses the COVID-19 response strategy or quarantine strategy it contains, so further review is necessary."

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