In light of the recent surge in COVID-19 cases, KDCA asked the public to follow the government’s special infection prevention measures for the winter holiday season. The special measures include*:

(*not an exhaustive list)

- Convalescent hospitals, psychiatric hospitals, and care facilities: stronger preemptive testing (mandatory diagnostic testing every 1-2 weeks or rapid antigen test 1-2 times a week); stringent restriction of unauthorized personnel entry; staff not allowed to attend private social gathering

- Religious facilities: Level 2.5 measures applied nationwide; regular worship/mass to be held via non-face-to-face methods only; religious facilities may not host a gathering or a meal

- Private gathering, dinner, or party including 5 or more people: strongly recommended to cancel

- Parties of 5 or more not allowed in restaurants

* exception: members belonging to same household according to official documents

- Rental party rooms: gathering ban

- Department stores and grocery stores where a large number of gift shoppers are expected: fever check required, sampling of food or drink not allowed; crowd-attracting events not allowed; rest areas or bench areas not allowed

- Ski resorts, sleigh resorts, ice skating rinks, and other winter sport facilities: gathering ban nationwide

- Resorts, hotels, and other accommodation facilities: occupancy may not exceed 50%; guests above room capacity not allowed in the same room

- Popular new year travel destinations including sunset/sunrise sites and national parks: closed and visitor access restricted

KDCA requested the public to cancel social or travel plans and stay home as much as possible since Christmas or New Year gatherings can result in another massive surge. KDCA also asked vulnerable facilities to strictly adhere to the guidelines.