South Korea: Officials tightening social distancing measures nationwide from Dec. 6 due to COVID-19 activity /update 79

Event

Authorities plan to tighten social distancing measures across South Korea Dec. 6-Jan 2 to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The government will reduce the gathering limit from 10 to six people in Greater Seoul and 12 to eight people in other regions; the guideline applies regardless of participants' vaccination status. Officials will also expand a vaccine or PCR test entry requirement to most public venues, including restaurants; the measure, which is already in effect for high-risk establishments like senior care and entertainment facilities, will be enforced in the additional locations from Dec. 10. The government has also requested that businesses permit employees to work from home, if possible, through Dec. 31.

Domestic Measures
Most businesses, including restaurants and cafes, may operate without time limits; the relaxation does not apply to some entertainment venues. Up to 100 people can attend indoor sporting, religious, and wedding events, regardless of vaccination status, and up to 500 for vaccinated people. Individuals must wear facemasks in public places, indoor public areas, and on public transportation.

High-risk businesses nationwide must participate in a contact-tracing system, requiring patrons to produce a quick response (QR) code for scanning before entering designated establishments. Companies can manually record contact information if necessary. Commercial disruptions are possible at any establishment that violates COVID-19-related rules or where outbreaks occur. The government will close non-compliant businesses for 10 days after a first infraction; fines are possible. Several major industrial plants and offices have also temporarily closed after employees tested positive for COVID-19. Provincial and city governments may adjust curbs based on local COVID-19 activity.

International Travel Restrictions
South Korea permits entry for residents, including long-term visa holders. Visa-free and visa-waiver programs remain suspended with most countries; however, travelers from the European Union (EU) and Schengen countries can enter without a visa for 90 days. Foreigners with travel or transit history in Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, and Zimbabwe cannot enter South Korea, except for diplomatic and official visa holders.

Inbound passengers must present evidence of a negative result from a PCR test taken within 72 hours before departure; exceptions are possible for children under age six and South Korean nationals traveling for humanitarian reasons, among others. Arrivals are subject to mandatory screenings at points of entry. Authorities in Seoul require inbound passengers remaining in the city to undergo COVID-19 testing upon arrival; travelers must await test results before continuing their journey. Most foreign residents must obtain permits before departing South Korea to facilitate any planned re-entry.

All permitted inbound international travelers must quarantine for 10 days, regardless of vaccination status. Exemptions are possible for specific categories such as executives, public officials, and people traveling for compassionate reasons, such as funerals. Nonresidents must quarantine at designated facilities at their own expense. Returning citizens, long-term residents, and some relatives of these groups can self-quarantine, except if from designated high-risk countries. Arrivals from high-risk countries must undergo three COVID-19 tests before exiting quarantine.

Authorities will ban flights from Ethiopia, the only location with direct flights to South Korea Dec. 4-23:59 Dec. 17; the government plans to arrange some repatriation flights for stranded residents.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for possible ground shipping and travel delays; seek alternative routes and shipping methods for time-sensitive cargo.

Resources

Ministry of Health and Welfare