Gangwon-rae Running a Pub in Itaewon: "Tested Negative for COVID-19... Hope Itaewon Becomes Safe"

Published 14 May.2020 09:03(KST)

On the 13th, singer Kang Won-rae (51), who runs a pub in Itaewon, announced that he underwent a COVID-19 test as the aftermath of the mass infection of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) originating from clubs in Itaewon, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, intensified.
/Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Seul-gi] Amid the growing impact of the COVID-19 cluster infection originating from Itaewon clubs in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, singer Kang Won-rae (51), who operates a pub in Itaewon, announced that he tested negative for COVID-19.

On the 13th, Kang Won-rae posted on his Instagram, "To everyone who likes and enjoys Itaewon, during this difficult situation with COVID-19, let's overcome it with wise measures," along with a photo.

Kang Won-rae explained, "The testing process was lining up and waiting → filling out phone number, address, current health status, etc. → measuring body temperature and interview → one swab in the mouth and two in the nose → done → results notified by text the next day."

He added, "This does not mean that 'Moon Night' (the pub operated by Kang Won-rae) is reopening and resuming business amid the chaotic situation caused by COVID-19. It was meant to have even our few employees get tested for COVID-19, practice social distancing, and hope that Itaewon becomes safe," sharing two photos.

Kang Won-rae stated, "Itaewon has not only clubs but also numerous businesses such as restaurants and clothing stores. Because confirmed cases came from clubs, it seems that the entire Itaewon is misunderstood as a city of death, so everyone related to our store got tested."

Earlier, as the COVID-19 cluster infection spread in clubs around Itaewon, the Seoul city government issued a ban on gatherings for all entertainment facilities.