Crowds return to the popular Hongdae area in Seoul's Mapo District on Monday as new coronavirus cases drop
across the country. (Photo: Yonhap)
As South Korea prepares to shift to a new living with COVID-19 strategy that will ease tough social distancing rules, authorities warn people must not let their guard down too quickly.
Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum said in an interagency COVID response meeting Tuesday that it's likely not everyone will continue to adhere to disease prevention measures, such as wearing masks, when the new strategy takes effect next month.
Starting November 1, the government will begin a three-phased transition for the return to pre-pandemic life.
It will first focus on easing restrictions for fully vaccinated individuals.
Kim reiterated that a system where people will have to show proof of inoculation or a negative test result will take effect on Monday.
He also expressed concern about potential risks associated with Halloween festivities this weekend.
Kim reminded that the vaccination rate among young adults and foreign residents still remains low, adding that complacency could lead to another mass coronavirus outbreak.
The National Police Agency earlier said it would work with local governments to crack down on quarantine violations at nightlife hotspots across the country, including Itaewon, Hongdae and around Gangnam Station in Seoul.
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