4576 New COVID-19 Cases Nationwide by 9 AM... Expected to Reach Mid-5000s by Midnight

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyungsoo Park] On the first day of strengthened social distancing measures, the 18th, confirmed COVID-19 cases were reported across the country.

According to health authorities, Seoul city, and other local governments, from 0:00 to 21:00 on the 18th, a total of 4,576 people tested positive for COVID-19 across 17 cities and provinces nationwide.

This is 1,765 fewer than the 6,341 cases recorded at the same time the previous day. Compared to 5,481 cases recorded at the same time a week ago on the 11th, it is also 905 fewer.

During the weekend, the number of tests decreased, and as it started snowing in the afternoon, the number of tests conducted at outdoor screening clinics slightly declined.

Since there is still time until midnight when the count is finalized, the number of new confirmed cases announced at 0:00 on the 19th is expected to reach the mid-5,000s. New confirmed cases were 3,082 (67.4%) in the metropolitan area and 1,494 (32.6%) in non-metropolitan areas.

By city and province, Seoul reported 1,694 cases, Gyeonggi 895, Incheon 493, and Busan 348. Chungnam had 190, Daegu 150, Gyeongnam 148, Daejeon 141, Gyeongbuk 135, Gangwon 99, Jeonbuk 69, Chungbuk 64, Ulsan and Jeonnam each 37, Gwangju 30, Sejong 24, and Jeju 22.

Confirmed cases were reported in all 17 cities and provinces.

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