From the 25th, Eating Food Indoors Allowed in Movie Theaters and Railways

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Sejong=Reporter Kim Hyewon] From the 25th, eating and drinking will be allowed in indoor multi-use facilities such as movie theaters and railways, as well as on public transportation.

Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum announced this decision on the 22nd during a meeting of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters for COVID-19 held at the Government Seoul Office.

Prime Minister Kim said, "The average daily number of confirmed cases has decreased by about 40% compared to last week, and the decline in severe cases and deaths is continuing," adding, "We intend to boldly expand the scope of daily life recovery." He further explained, "Starting next Monday, eating will be permitted in indoor multi-use facilities where food consumption was previously prohibited. This includes movie theaters, religious facilities, indoor sports arenas, as well as public transportation such as railways, express buses, and intercity buses."

However, Prime Minister Kim emphasized, "The removal of restrictions does not mean the risk of infection has disappeared," and stressed, "For safe indoor eating, it is essential to refrain from talking and moving while eating, wear masks when not eating, and ensure thorough ventilation."

The government plans to continue promoting daily life recovery while strengthening management of vulnerable groups such as the elderly and residents of nursing facilities. Prime Minister Kim urged, "For seniors aged 60 and over who have passed four months since their third vaccination, we recommend participating in the fourth booster vaccination, which will be expanded to those with reservations starting next week." He also appealed, "We strongly encourage seniors aged 80 and above, who are at high risk of severe illness and death, to actively participate in vaccination."

In celebration of Family Month in May, the government plans to temporarily allow contact visits at nursing hospitals and facilities from the 30th of this month until the 22nd of next month.

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