[WORD_ON_THE_WEB] Restrictions still under review

The government announced that it’s considering lifting regulations on private gatherings and opening hours of different facilities such as restaurants.

Son Yong-rae, the senior epidemiological strategist at the Central Disaster Management Headquarters, was invited to speak on TBS radio’s "Kim Ou-joon’s News Factory" on April 12.

When asked about the possibility of quarantine restrictions being lifted altogether, he answered that it was an option.

"I'm not sure if this week's new quarantine measures will be the last adjustment, but the government has already announced considerable changes," Son said.

Son gave a positive answer when asked about the possibility of people going about their daily lives without wearing masks outside by June or July.

“We will discuss mask regulations, but prioritize getting rid of restrictions hindering bread-and-butter jobs and depriving people’s freedom."

“The focus will be on lifting restrictions regarding operating hours, private meetings, and large-scale events,” he added.

#no_masks_outdoors
“We should be allowed to take off our masks outdoors. The weather is getting hot, as well!”
“The restrictions should be lifted altogether. It’s contradictory that people wear masks outdoors where it’s less dangerous, and everyone takes them off in restaurants and bars where there are more chances of infection.”

#hasty_changes
“I think the masks should stay on, at least for a while. Even though the risk is lower, it’s not zero. We should still be careful.”
“I will keep wearing a mask, no matter what they decide. It’s the least I can do.”

#end_social_distancing
“I don’t mind keeping masks on. However, the restrictions on private gatherings should be lifted altogether.”
“Let each people do what they want with their masks. However, the quarantine measures regarding opening hours and private gatherings have to be lifted”

BY LEE SI-YEOUNG, YOO JI-WOO [yoo.jiwoo@joongang.co.kr]