(Photo: Yonhap)
Curfews on restaurants and cafes across South Korea aimed at stopping the spread of COVID-19 will be lifted next month as the country transitions to a new strategy that focuses on living with the virus.
A government-led committee revealed Monday details of the new scheme that is set to take effect on November 1.
This comes after it was confirmed over the weekend that 70 percent of the South Korean population had been fully vaccinated against the novel coronavirus.
Under the government's plan for a gradual return to "normal life," limits on private gatherings will also be eased, allowing up to 10 people to come together, regardless of vaccination status.
Late night entertainment establishments such as clubs, which have been barred from operating since June, will be allowed to open until midnight.
To better ensure public safety, authorities said proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result will be required for entry into shopping malls, gyms, singing rooms and other multiuse facilities.
Individuals under the age of 18 and people who are not able to get inoculated due to medical reasons will be exempt from this system.
The second phase, slated to begin in mid-December, will focus on bringing back large-scale events.
The third and last phase, which will completely lift rules on social gatherings, is expected to begin in late January.
Health and government officials stressed that indoor and outdoor mask mandates will remain in place.
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