South Korea: Officials to tighten restrictions in Greater Seoul from July 12 due to COVID-19 activity

Event

Authorities in South Korea will raise the alert for COVID-19 in Greater Seoul, including Incheon and Gyeonggi Province, to Level 4, the highest tier, July 12-25, amid a rise in COVID-19 cases. The government has advised residents to restrict gatherings and activities outside of the home as much as possible. Officials will limit groups to two people from 18:00 daily; nationwide gathering restrictions of four people will remain in effect at other times. Authorities will count vaccinated individuals in group totals in a departure with nationwide regulations. All demonstrations are banned in the region. Schools in the metropolitan area will also move to remote learning from July 14. A facemask requirement will apply to all residents, regardless of vaccination status.

Most businesses in Greater Seoul must reduce on-site workers by 30 percent; the measure does not apply to manufacturers. Authorities will limit booking at hotels to two-thirds of capacity, and accommodations cannot host events for guests. Restaurants can only service dine-in customers until 22:00. Entertainment businesses, including nightclubs and pubs, will remain closed, and spectators cannot attend sporting events.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Remain polite and cooperative if questioned by security personnel. Avoid crowded areas as a precaution. Plan for potential business disruptions; confirm appointments in Greater Seoul.