수도권 2단계+α 방역조치 강화...한증막•에어로빅•호텔 파티 금지
South Korea's health authorities are gearing up for another wave of the pandemic, which is why they have kept the capital area under level 2 social distancing measures and put out additional guidelines for local saunas, indoor gyms, and private music lessons.
Choi Won-jong has this report.
For one week starting Tuesday, much stricter and more detailed social distancing guidelines will be imposed for some facilities,... while the government keeps the Greater Seoul area under level 2 social distancing.
They are preparing for another wave of the pandemic during the cold winter season.
"Rather than implementing general prevention measures, we are trying to minimize any damage to people's daily lives through detailed prevention measures."
"Under the tougher distancing measures, there is a ban on gatherings in enclosed spaces. And that means saunas like this one will be no longer able to operate."
People are not allowed to use saunas, but using public showers is still allowed.
One sauna owner said he is still worried about the current COVID-19 situation, but hopes to see some positive results.
"We were notified to close saunas for a while... I do think closing enclosed spaces will help prevent the virus."
Tougher social distancing guidelines were also put in place for indoor sports facilities.
Some indoor exercise classes such as Zumba, aerobics, indoor cycling and kickboxing can't run until next Monday.
Private music lessons for wind instruments and singing are also canceled until next Monday.
But students who are preparing for college entrance exams will be exempt from this additional measure.
As it's getting closer to the end of the year, the government has also banned year-end events and parties,... particularly at hotels, guest houses, as well as at other types of accommodation.
Outside the greater Seoul area, the health authorities also raised social distancing levels one notch to level 1-point-5 for a two-week period... but this could change depending on the local situation.
Choi Won-jong, Arirang News.