Table 3 the major epidemic prevention and control measures in South Korea
SN | Strategy | Key elements |
|---|---|---|
1 | Activated the National Emergency response system | (1) Jan 27, Raising the public alert level to orange (3 out of 4 levels). (2) Feb 23, Raising the public alert to the highest level. |
2 | Border control measures | (1) Since Feb 4, 2020, a special entry procedure was introduced for all passengers entering South Korea from China and gradually extended to all global arrivals. (2) Since April 1, all travelers entering Korea are subject to a 14-day quarantine from the day after arrival. |
3 | Screening and testing measures | (1) On Feb 18, nationwide screening for workers at nursing homes. (2) On Feb 23, launching Drive-through screening centers. (3) On Feb 24, screening all members of Shincheonji religious group. |
4 | Implementing massive public health measures nationwide | (1) On Feb 17, public relief hospitals in operation. (2) On Feb 22, the Korean government suspended religious activities held indoors or other outdoor activities in densely populated areas, called for citizens to cooperate with epidemic prevention work. (3) On March 2, the reopening time of schools and kindergartens was postponed from March 9 to March 23 in South Korea. (4) Since March 6, the Korean government banned the export of masks, and restricted the purchase of masks, nationwide distribution of public face masks on March 8. (5) On April 11, the government required that people who breached the self-quarantine rule should be worn electronic wristbands. |
5 | Blockade measures | The South Korean government imposed strict blockades in Daegu city and North Gyeongsang province on Feb 25. |
6 | Strict social distancing measures | (1) Citizens in South Korea must wear a mask when they take public transportation such as buses and taxis since May 26. (2) On 28 June, the Korean government released the three phases of social distancing measures and their epidemic prevention strategies. (3) The Korean government declared a secondary level of social distance and banned gatherings of 50 people indoors on August 18 due to a new religious cluster infection. (4) Banning gatherings of more than ten people since August 21. (5) Forcing people to wear face masks in the South Korean capital Seoul since August 24. |
7 | Relaxed epidemic prevention measures | (1) Since April 19, the Korean government softened social distancing measures. (2) On May 6, South Korea began to enter the phase of normal life and epidemic prevention and control. |